“Deserves it more than anyone else” – Miami Heat legend Dwyane Wade to have statue built for first time in franchise history, outside the arena

Wade spent the majority of his 16-year career playing for the Miami Heat in the NBA.

“Deserves it more than anyone else” – Miami Heat legend Dwyane Wade to have statue built for first time in franchise history, outside the arena

Dwyane Wade (via X/Miami Heat)

Dwyane Wade, the accomplished former professional basketball player, devoted the majority of his impressive 16-year career to the Miami Heat in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Through his remarkable tenure with the Heat, he clinched three NBA championships, solidifying his legacy as a pivotal contributor.

Dwyane Wade’s influence extends beyond championships, making him a statistical powerhouse for the Miami Heat. He holds the distinction of being Miami’s all-time leader in points, games, assists, steals, shots made, and shots taken. Regarded as one of the greatest shooting guards in NBA history. He was selected fifth overall in the 2003 NBA draft by the Miami Heat,

YouTube video

In last night’s game between the Miami Heat and the Charlotte Hornets, a special moment unfolded. While inducting Wade into the Heat Hall of Fame, the club president, Pat Riley, announced exciting news. He declared that in Fall 2024, Wade, a franchise icon, would receive the first statue in Miami Heat history, positioned outside the Kaseya Center.

FS Video
When we retired his jersey in February 2020, I said Dwyane was the face of this franchise forever, and I meant it. Dwyane's legacy is a towering one not only for the Miami Heat but for Miami-Wade County. I can't think of a better way to honor him than by memorializing that legacy.

Expressing visible emotion, Wade responded by saying:

I didn't dream of this. I'm just so grateful. I can't wait for that day. I'm excited.

Wade spearheaded the Heat to their first NBA Championship, securing the coveted 2006 NBA Finals MVP. His pivotal role continued as he played a crucial part in steering Miami to four consecutive NBA Finals appearances from 2011 to 2014, clinching consecutive championships in 2012 and 2013.

Fans react to Dwyane Wade getting Miami Heat’s first statue

In a moment of celebration for Dwyane Wade, the revered figure in the Miami Heat family, it was revealed that he will be honored with the franchise’s inaugural statue outside the Kaseya Center. The announcement came from the club president, Pat Riley, during Wade’s Miami Hall of Fame celebration last night.

Dwyane Wade and Pat Riley
Dwyane Wade (Left) and Pat Riley, President of the Miami Heat (Right) (Image via Open Source, X)

The club’s decision sparked a social media frenzy, particularly on the widely-used platform X, previously known as Twitter. Let’s take a look at a couple of fans’ reactions below:

Recognizing Wade’s immense contributions, in October 2021, he received the esteemed honor of being named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team, solidifying his place among the league’s greatest players. Building on this recognition, in 2023, the basketball world learned of Wade’s impending induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

In case you missed it: