After Simone Fontecchio’s contract expired this summer, the 30-year-old was headed for free agency once again.
The Italian sharpshooter got a late start to his NBA career and was initially seen as a player who could potentially go back overseas due to a lack of interest in the NBA free-agent market.
But the Heat quickly made sure to let Fontecchio know he was still wanted in Miami. As a result, Fontecchio shot down any idea of moving on from the NBA.
4-Year NBA Vet Makes Strong Feelings On Miami Heat Clear After Free Agency
GettyMIAMI, FLORIDA – JANUARY 03: Simone Fontecchio #0 of the Miami Heat drives against Donte Divincenzo #0 of the Minnesota Timberwolves during the second quarter of the game at Kaseya Center on January 03, 2026 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)
“We didn’t even consider returning to Europe this summer. So I don’t even know: we didn’t look for any offers,” Fontecchio told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“When this opportunity in Miami came up, I just accepted … I’m happy that my family can stay in the same place for two years in a row: the place where I want to be, and I feel wanted and appreciated. I’m not even thinking about next year.”
Fontecchio appeared in 70 games for the Heat in 2025-2026. Seeing the court for 16.8 minutes per outing, he averaged 8.5 points while shooting 37.5% from three.
It was a bounce back season for Fontecchio, who struggled on the Detroit Pistons.
Fontecchio’s Pre-Heat Run
In 2022, Fontecchio entered the NBA to play for the Utah Jazz. Amid his second season with the Jazz, the Pistons picked up the sharpshooter. In 16 games, Fontecchio shot 42.6% from three, averaging 15.4 points per game.
The Pistons signed Fontecchio to a two-year, $16 million deal. In his first full season with the Pistons, Fontecchio’s numbers took a dip. In 75 games, he shot 33.5% from deep, producing 5.9 points per game. He also came down with 2.9 rebounds per game.
During the 2025 offseason, Fontecchio was sent to the Heat in the sign-and-trade deal that helped Detroit take on Duncan Robinson.
While a future overseas run shouldn’t be ruled out for Fontecchio, he’s looking forward to playing on the revamped Heat in 2026-2027.
4-Year NBA Vet Makes Strong Feelings On Miami Heat Clear After Free Agency