Miami Heat forward Haywood Highsmith was involved in a car accident Tuesday night, resulting in a victim reportedly facing a partial leg amputation. The incident occurred post-game as Highsmith left Kaseya Center following the Heat’s win against the Orlando Magic.
According to Andy Slater of Fox Sports 640, Highsmith struck an individual assisting a stranded driver. Highsmith was absent from Wednesday’s game against the San Antonio Spurs, and the team refrained from commenting on the accident’s severity.
Miami Heat’s Haywood Highsmith hit a person helping another driver stuck in the middle of the road on Tuesday night, according to a senior law-enforcement source.
The man who was hit is in critical condition and suffered a partial amputation of his leg, I’m told.
— Andy Slater (@AndySlater) February 7, 2024
In an official statement, the Heat addressed the situation and said, “We have been made aware that Highsmith was involved in a car accident heading home from last night’s game. Highsmith is listed as out for tonight’s contest against the San Antonio Spurs due to Personal Reasons. Our hearts go out to those who were injured. We will have no further comment at this time.”
Highsmith, a key player for the Heat over the past two seasons, was replaced by Caleb Martin in Tuesday’s game against the Magic. Formerly a two-way contract player, he climbed to a rotation spot last season, contributing to the team’s NBA Finals appearance against the Denver Nuggets.
This season, Highsmith has averaged 5.8 points and 2.8 rebounds. The Heat faced the Spurs, led by top pick Victor Wembanyama, with tip-off scheduled for 7:30 PM.
