While an increasingly common term, Heat Culture?has many different interpretations. Whether it be the gritty style of play or a never-say-die attitude, there is one player who embodies that mentality to the fullest. After proclaiming his wish to become a member of the front office, he is well on his way. Due to his influence on the team and its culture, his selection feels warranted. As a result, former teammates like Dwyane Wade and LeBron James were all complimentary of the curator of Heat Culture.
But, his impact was so immediate that even a one-year member of the team, Andre Iguodala, couldn’t help but join in on the celebrations.
There is a new sheriff in town
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Despite embodying the mentality that has made the Miami Heat franchise so successful, Udonis Haslem always had bigger goals. While the 3 rings he compiled during his NBA career are invaluable, UD had bigger goals in mind.
As his retirement was approaching, Haslem made his intentions to join the front office and eventually take over an ownership role increasingly apparent. Now, just a few short months in, he’s well on his way to making his dreams a reality.
The Miami Heat franchise used a compilation of some iconic moments from the veteran’s career to make the announcement. Udonis was joining the franchise in the role of VP. The post immediately had friends and teammates sending out their heartiest congratulations.
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While LeBron wrote “Congrats my G”?and D-Wade went with “VP OP”?as their messages, a teammate from the Heat’s improbable 2020 run in the bubble, Iggy also had to join the party. But, he was more clear in stating the impact the VP of Basketball Development would have on the team.
After all, he already has students like Bam Adebayo reaping the benefits. “Bam had 20 rebounds last night…”.??That impact perhaps best summarizes the role Haslem has had in a myriad of NBA careers.
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As he takes over a very important distinction, it is a proud day in the life of Miami Heat fans. And, a true testament to what?Heat Culture?can do.
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Mr. Heat Culture crowned Greatest Miami Heat ever by Dwyane Wade
Despite the rich history that the Heat franchise does have, it is Udonis Haslem who gets the crown of the greatest player in Heat history in the eyes of DWade. Further, after UD crowned himself the personification of Heat Culture itself, Wade couldn’t help but sing more praises about his “big brother”.
According to?The Flash,?it wasn’t his own unreal contributions or the play from Shaquille O’Neal that got the team its 2006 Championship. Instead, it was the defensive effort by Haslem that was the difference maker. Since retiring, stories of the inspiration and culture Udonis perpetuates have become increasingly common.
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However, for a man who has long proven that he will defy the odds, the latest role might be a beginning. Rather than the apex.
Read More: Earning $71 Million Throughout 20-Year Career, Udonis Haslem Sets Sight on $2.3 Billion Dream