Kel'el Ware Nearly Makes NBA All-Rookie First Team

Miami Heat center Kel’el Ware was named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team after an impressive debut season, finishing just 12 voting points behind Alex Sarr for a spot on the First Team. Ware, selected 15th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, averaged 9.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game across 64 appearances (36 starts), and led all rookies with 15 double-doubles despite playing fewer minutes than many peers. He set a franchise rookie record for defensive rebounds and made a strong impact after earning a starting role midseason, particularly alongside All-Star Bam Adebayo. The All-Rookie First Team was led by Stephon Castle and included Zaccharie Risacher, Jaylen Wells, Zach Edey, and Alex Sarr. Ware's back-to-back All-Rookie selection continues a rare streak for the Heat, following Jaime Jaquez Jr.'s first-team honor last year. Ware's athleticism and two-way performance have established him as a valued asset for Miami’s future.