2023-07-28 20:43:00
He had announced that this NBA season would be his last and Udonis Haslem went all the way by officially announcing his withdrawal from the courts tonight. It’s the end of an era for the Heat, as their captain puts the sneakers away for good.
There is no surprise in the announcement of Udonis Haslem since the player had explained that even an NBA title would not change his mind. The one who was known as “Mr 305” in Miami wanted his 20 NBA seasons to fulfill his promise to his father and he succeeded. He even offered himself a big final at home by scoring 24 points in… 25 minutes! Not bad for a player who hardly ever saw the floor in recent years. Now is the time for Haslem to open a new chapter in his life. For the occasion, the veteran posted a long message on social networks to thank Heat fans and his teammates.
Udonis Haslem officially announces retirement following 20 years with the Heat ???????? pic.twitter.com/1j4SQOel8n
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) July 28, 2023
“20 years…it’s impossible to put into words what the last 20 years have meant, but you know me. I will definitely try…
I consider myself extremely lucky to be able to leave this sport without any regrets. Championships, accolades, brotherhood, it’s hard not to be at peace.
From undrafted to a three-time champion, All-Rookie 2nd Team, Teammate of the Year, oldest player to play in an NBA Finals game, leading rebounder in Miami Heat history and player having had the longest service life, the list goes on…
A big thank you to my team mates and my family who have stayed by my side all this time… Although this journey has had its ups and downs, I am truly grateful and not complaining at all… Until I let money on the table to stay in my city! You, Miami, have made it all worth it!
I’ll always be here but it’s time for the family man and businessman to get down to business…
#40, see you soon in the stands. Until then, OG out”
Haslem gone, it’s a real new start in the history of the Heat. A roster without Haslem in Miami? We have to go back to the 2002-2003 season. Michael Jordan was still in the NBA, that is to say! True pillar of the temple and ultimate representative of the values of the Heat, Haslem therefore passes the torch. Very close to his elder, Bam Adebayo has already explained that he saw himself walking in Haslem’s footsteps by playing his entire career in Miami to in turn pass on what he received from the legendary Heat pivot.
Text source: Udonis Haslem / Instagram
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