Herro Returns from Injury, Scores 24 in Heat's 128-97 Win

Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro returned to action Friday night after missing 15 games with a rib injury, scoring a game-high 24 points off the bench to help his team secure a 128-97 victory over the Atlanta Hawks in Atlanta.

Herro, who entered the game wearing a protective flak jacket, finished 9 of 14 from the field, including 2 of 4 from three-point range, while adding four rebounds, three assists and a steal in 23 minutes. The 26-year-old, a 2025 All-Star, had not played since fracturing three ribs in a January 10 loss to the Indiana Pacers. He attempted to play through the pain with medication for three more games but required an extended recovery after an MRI revealed the full extent of the buckle rib fractures and costochondral joint damage.

"It felt great," Herro said after the game. "Ultimately, just being out there was what felt amazing. Being out there with my teammates, playing in the game, being able to go through my routine again."

The win marked the Heat's first game after the All-Star break and improved their road record to six wins in seven tries. Miami never trailed, pulling away in the fourth quarter behind a strong second unit that included Herro, rookie Kasparas...