Following weeks of speculation, it is confirmed Dwayne Wade will remain with the Miami Heat.
Wade accepted a one-year, $20 million deal to stay with the Heat next season. The 33-year-old shooting guard released a statement saying, “It has been an honor and privilege to play with the Miami Heat the past twelve years. The Heat family and I have shared incredible moments over the years and I look forward to continuing our journey. I am extremely proud of my personal contributions in helping to build the Heat franchise and for bringing three NBA championship wins to our great city. For my entire NBA career, Miami has always been my city and my home. I’m overwhelmed with the love and support the Miami community have consistently shown me and my family throughout the years.”
In an interview with the Associated Press, Wade said he kept track of how much Heat fans wanted him to stay, which was a major factor in his decision-making process.
According to Wade’s agent, Henry Thomas, the contract is a win-win for both Illinois native and the Miami Heat. Thomas said, “Not only does Dwyane get to extend his Hall of Fame-worthy career with the only franchise for whom he has ever played, but he will have the flexibility next summer to sign an additional deal. And the Heat gets to keep their franchise cornerstone while having the ability to build a championship-contending roster.”
Expressing his love for the Magic City, Wade posted a video on Instagram of him in Miami. The video ends with Wade saying, “Heat life baby. My city, my home, my house. That’s how we roll.”
Per NBA rules, Wade cannot sign his new contract until Thursday, July 9th, once the NBA moratorium ends.
Photo via Instagram
