What’s better than attending a Miami Heat game in South Beach? What about seeing MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo courtside? All of this, in addition to a tour of the newly-named FTX Arena, occurred for West Boca High School students.

Specifically, members of the club FBLA attended this special event. FBLA, which stands for Future Business Leaders of America, helps high school students prepare for careers in business through academic competitions, leadership development, and educational programs.

In-Depth 

The Miami Heat hosted the reigning NBA champs, the Milwaukee Bucks, on Wednesday night. But, students weren’t just going to see the highly competitive action between two of the NBA’s best teams. Students were going to learn more about the business side of things in the NBA.

West Boca got the chance to speak with the Miami Heat’s project manager. He discussed what makes an employee successful at the Heat. He also discussed the role of project management in creative marketing, and the collaboration of different departments towards delivering the same project.

At the end, students were able to understand Miami’s organizational culture and what makes a good employee in any industry, but especially in the NBA.

When asked about his experience, junior Dylan Schneider had this to say: “I had such an awesome experience with my trip to the Miami Heat game with FBLA. Being a big fan of the team, watching the Heat upset a team like Milwaukee was such a thrill, especially in such a close game. Some other highlights of the trip were getting to go court-side to watch the players warm up and talking to the Miami Heat projects coordinator, learning all about how the franchise operates. I also got to win a nice new bag and shirt and I got to take a picture with the trophy. I’m so glad I got this opportunity.”

How about we talk about the game now?! 

Miami came into Wednesday’s game without their two best players due to injury (Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo). However, Miami was still able to outduel Giannis and the tough Bucks, who came in as heavy favorites.

Simply, the Heat rallied back with a prolific second-half effort, snatching the 113-104 victory over the Bucks.

FUN FACT: Jade Bant won a HEAT Vice Shirt autographed by Tyler Herro.