MIAMI (WSVN) — Miami Heat fans attending Monday night’s game against the Toronto Raptors are hoping their hometown team will be able to bounce back after two consecutive losses.
The American Airlines Arena is expecting a capacity crowd for Game 4 in NBA’s Eastern Conference semifinals. Monday afternoon, fans started lining up in front of the venue.
The Heat need to win three out of the next four games in order to advance in the playoffs.
"Must win game," a fan yelled to 7News cameras outside the arena.
This fan said he made sure to make it home from work to see the game. "I’m a big Heat fan," he said. "I’m a taxi driver. I’m going to park my car, and then go home, get ready, and Let’s go, Heat!"
The cab driver shares that devotion to the Heat with one of his out-of-town customers. "Here are my tickets. I mean, it’s my first-ever basketball match," said the visitor.
Another fan also held up his purchased tickets. "I’m so excited, I don’t know what I’m gonna do," he said. "Miami Heat, baby!"
Hours before tip-off, the playoff energy was palpable in front of the Arena, as fans lined up to purchase "White Hot" gear from vendors.
One fan, however, expressed worry that the Heat could be in for another painful defeat. "Very disappointed," she said.
If the Heat lose, they face elimination on Game 5 in Toronto, Wednesday night.
"Today, that’s a must-win game," said the taxi driver.
Monday’s game is set to start at 8 p.m.