Udonis Haslem will go down as one of the crucial beloved gamers in Miami Warmth historical past. He could also be second to solely Dwayne Wade, and that’s saying one thing contemplating a few of the stars who’ve performed for the franchise. Whereas the Warmth haven’t precisely made Haslem’s swan tune season one to recollect, the group has introduced how they plan to honor the three-time NBA champ by dedicating part 305 in Miami-Dade Area to the long-time Warmth veteran.

Usually, we see groups honor superstars or gamers that after led them to titles as dominant scorers. Haslem by no means averaged greater than 12 factors per sport in a season or postseason. However in case you ask anybody in Miami what his contributions have meant to this workforce on and off the court docket for the final 20 years, they’d let you know his management and accountability have been priceless. There’s a motive he’s so effectively revered across the affiliation. Memphis Grizzlies ahead Dillon Brooks even shouted out Haslem just lately, exhibiting respect to the vet whereas concurrently sneak-dissing Carmelo Anthony and Dwight Howard.

“These guys are attempting to get again into the league. They’re not making an attempt to hone in on a man and be a vet. An actual vet is like Udonis Haslem.”

Haslem has not performed greater than 16 video games throughout an NBA season since 2015-16, when he logged minutes in 37 of 82 contests. It’s just like what the Golden State Warriors have completed with Andre Iguodala of late, however he hasn’t spent his complete profession in a single spot. The one fixed in that Miami locker room since 2003 has been Haslem. Pat Riley’s been an govt with the group for a while now, and Haslem was round lengthy earlier than Eric Spoelstra was named head coach.

Being a Miami native makes this much more particular for all events concerned. The fan base loves Haslem for what he’s completed over time, as he’s been the workforce’s enforcer in a league that just about phased that function out years in the past. Haslem’s by no means been one for nonsense, as was evident throughout his sideline altercation with teammate Jimmy Butler final yr. Fortunately cooler heads prevailed in that scenario. In a league the place so many dudes “act” robust, it’s refreshing to nonetheless have guys who don’t have to faux it.