In 2010, Patrick Beverley experienced the volatile nature of NBA life firsthand. After impressing in training camp, Beverley secured a spot on the Miami Heat’s roster during the first season of the LeBron James, Chris Bosh, and Dwyane Wade era.
He was thrilled, particularly when Wade himself praised his performance.
“I was ecstatic,” Beverley recounted on his podcast. “Not only was I on the Heat, but LeBron James, Chris Bosh, and D-Wade were there. I signed the contract and thought, ‘Damn, I’m really a part of this.’”
However, Beverley’s NBA dream quickly turned into a nightmare during a practice drill.
Coach Erik Spoelstra called for someone to guard James in a 3-on-3 drill, and Mike Miller volunteered. During the drill, Miller broke his thumb after it got caught in James’ jersey. This injury sidelined Miller for several months, prompting the Heat to sign Jerry Stackhouse as his replacement.
“They needed bigger guards,” Beverley explained. “So, they cut the guy with the smallest contract—me. I was out of the league that fast because Mike Miller decided to play All-Defensive one day.”
The following year, the Heat drafted Norris Cole, who Beverley described as a player very similar to himself.
Cole ended up being the starting point guard for most of the season and played a significant role in the Heat’s championship win against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Finals.
Reflecting on the situation, Beverley highlighted the unpredictability of NBA careers, underscoring how quickly fortunes can change.
