Jim Rassol-Imagn Images

Pat Riley Makes Major Retirement Decision on Friday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Kevin Matthew Borba | Last updated May 9, 2025 11:32 PM ET

During his Friday end-of-season press conference, Miami Heat president Pat Riley addressed everything imaginable regarding the team's underwhelming season.

The Heat ended up making the playoffs as the No. 10 seed after fighting their way through the NBA Play-In Tournament, but were swiftly swept by the Cleveland Cavaliers. However, the early exit is far down on the list of things people wanted to ask Riley about. Much of the conversation centered around the Jimmy Butler saga that essentially saw him force a trade to the Golden State Warriors, and also what was next for the team after what was the most lopsided playoff series in NBA history.

"I do think we do have to make changes, Riley said. "There's no doubt. There has to be some change."

While those changes are yet to be determined, the 80-year-old Riley did clarify there is one change that won't be made, which is his role with the team.

"I just turned 80, and I'm proud of it and 80 is the new 60," Riley said. "I mean, that's how I look at it. I feel great. I am competitive as hell."

Riley also revealed that he has the support of owner Micky Arison and the chief executive officer, Nick Arison, as they navigate this rebuilding phase.

“[Heat owner Micky Arison] and [Heat chief executive officer Nick Arison] and I met, they’ve been very good to me,” said Riley. “They said, ‘Carry on, Pat.’ I’m going to carry on and try to make this thing better.”

The Heat likely won't find the answer in the draft as they have the No. 20 overall pick thanks to the Butler trade. They did end up losing their pick to the Oklahoma City Thunder this year since they made the playoffs. Had they not made the playoffs, next year's pick would have been sent to the Thunder instead.

However, the move that everyone in the NBA is watching out for centers around Kevin Durant, as multiple reports have linked the two parties. Only time will tell what happens, but this is a huge offseason for the Heat's short-term future.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: