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Irish In The NBA: How Matt Farrell Fits With the Miami Heat

By Jack Leniart

NEW YORK, NY - NOVEMBER 22: Matt Farrell #5 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish dribbles up court against the Northwestern Wildcats in the second half during the championship game of the Legends Classic at Barclays Center on November 22, 2016 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - NOVEMBER 22: Matt Farrell #5 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish dribbles up court against the Northwestern Wildcats in the second half during the championship game of the Legends Classic at Barclays Center on November 22, 2016 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /
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Notre Dame point guard Matt Farrell did not hear his name called in the 2018 NBA Draft. However, he did sign a deal to join the Miami Heat’s Summer League team the following day.

The Miami Heat entered the draft with a grand total of zero picks. There were some rumors that they wanted to make a trade to acquire a late first-round pick, but nothing came to fruition. Instead, the Heat shifted their attention to players that were still available after the draft concluded, and Matt Farrell was near the top of their list.

He was one of six players signed to Miami’s Summer League team following the draft.

What’s Next?

It will be an uphill battle for Farrell as he tries to earn an NBA roster spot or a two-way contract before the preseason kicks off. While he is a bit undersized compared to NBA point guards, he can make up for that by showing consistent three-point shooting, solid ball-handling and good decision-making.

Of course, all of that is easier said than done when considering the leap in talent that Farrell will be competing against in the NBA’s Summer League.

To delve further into Farrell’s current situation, we spoke with our very own Chase Eyrich, who also writes for All U Can Heat (FanSided’s Miami Heat Blog).

Jack: How do you think Farrell fits with the culture of the Miami Heat?

Chase: We know he’s a tough guy from the way he drives, dives for loose balls and plays defense. He has what it takes to play in the association. The mentality he plays with is like that of current Heat guards Goran Dragic and Tyler Johnson. Plus, Farrell has always had to fight for his chance to play and be known. Miami’s roster is filled with guys who had to deal with the same situation. As far as culture goes, I think this is where he belongs.

Jack: How does he fit with their playing style?

Chase: Farrell is a small gritty guard, and that’s something head coach Erik Spoelstra will love about him. Miami is a team that shares the wealth. You’ll barely ever see the same leading scorer two games in a row. With how crafty Farrell is at passing, he will fit right in. Let’s not forget about how well he ran the pick-and-roll with Bonzie Colson. Now imagine Hassan Whiteside or Bam Adebayo on the other side of Farrell’s passes.

Jack: Based on Miami’s current roster, is there a path for Farrell to make his NBA debut with the Heat this season?

Chase: There is a chance, but it will be difficult. Obviously, Goran Dragic is their starting point guard. Tyler Johnson also played forty-two percent of his minutes at the point guard position. What might make or break Farrell’s opportunity is whether or not Miami re-signs guard Wayne Ellington. The Heat currently have a crowded back-court. If Farrell can play with Johnson and allow him to be a shooting guard, he will have a chance to make the roster.

Jack: What type of player do you see Farrell becoming in the NBA?

Chase: Exactly what we saw from him at Notre Dame. He’ll be a leader. Farrell might not be a team’s top player, but he’s going to keep everyone motivated and competitive. I see him being the guy to huddle up his team and make sure they’re all locked in.

Next: Notre Dame Athletics Year In Review

Farrell and the rest of the Heat’s Summer League team will begin play on July 2nd in a three-day tournament held in Sacramento. They’ll play in another Summer League tournament in Las Vegas starting on July 6th.