Udonus Haslem will get his own section of Miami-Dade Arena

Udonis Haslem will go down as some of the beloved gamers in Miami Warmth historical past. He could also be second to solely Dwayne Wade, and that’s saying one thing contemplating among the stars who’ve performed for the franchise. Whereas the Warmth haven’t precisely made Haslem’s swan track 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 recreation in a season or postseason. However when you ask anybody in Miami what his contributions have meant to this group on and off the courtroom for the final 20 years, they’d inform you his management and accountability have been priceless. There’s a purpose he’s so nicely revered across the affiliation. Memphis Grizzlies ahead Dillon Brooks even shouted out Haslem 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 attempting 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 much like what the Golden State Warriors have carried out with Andre Iguodala of late, however he hasn’t spent his total profession in a single spot. The one fixed in that Miami locker room since 2003 has been Haslem. Pat Riley’s been an government 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 carried out over time, as he’s been the group’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 12 months. Fortunately cooler heads prevailed in that state of affairs. In a league the place so many dudes “act” robust, it’s refreshing to nonetheless have guys who don’t must faux it.