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MILWAUKEE, WI – JANUARY 20: Dwyane Wade address the crowd during a game between the Marquette Golden Eagles and the Providence Friars at the Fiserv Forum on January 20, 2019 in Milwaukee, WI. (Photo by Larry Radloff/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

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MILWAUKEE, WI – JANUARY 20: Dwyane Wade address the crowd during a game between the Marquette Golden Eagles and the Providence Friars at the Fiserv Forum on January 20, 2019 in Milwaukee, WI. (Photo by Larry Radloff/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
NBA Hall of Famer Dwyane Wade has been the talk of the town lately. Rightly so, after his much-deserved entry into the HoF. Recently he shared a clip on his Instagram story. The clip featured his close friend and fellow NBA veteran Gilbert Arenas. Gill was discussing what made Wade’s game so special. However, the connection between these two goes beyond the court.
Arenas once played a surprising and pivotal role in Wade’s daughter Zaya’s journey during a challenging time. Let’s dive deep into this unique connection between the two NBA greats.
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Gilbert Arenas’ “Panther” connection amuses Dwyane Wade
In the clip shared by Dwyane Wade on his Instagram story, Gilbert Arenas eloquently described what set Wade’s playing style apart from the rest. He likened Wade’s movements to that of a powerful predator, comparing it to how a tiger or a panther gets low before attacking.

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BOSTON, MA – APRIL 1: Dwyane Wade #3 of the Miami Heat controls the ball against the Boston Celtics during the second quarter of an NBA basketball game at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts on April 1, 2019. (Staff Photo By Christopher Evans/MediaNews Group/Boston Herald) (Photo by Christopher Evans/MediaNews Group/Boston Herald via Getty Images)
D-Wade also wrote a caption, “The respect from your peers,” which shows that he values the respect and opinions of his on-court brothers.
In the video, Arenas added, “You ever seen like a tiger or like a panther? Like how they get low to attack? That’s how he played so like when he’s coming at you he’s low and then he’s exploding up”.
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This unique quality allowed Wade to execute explosive moves, especially evident in his pick-and-roll plays. Arenas marveled at how Wade’s low and explosive approach made him an incredibly challenging player to guard.
However, their friendship off the court is also very strong. They always look out for each other’s families too.
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Arenas’ role in supporting Zaya’s struggles
While the on-court bond between Wade and Arenas is evident, their connection runs deeper. Wade once revealed how Gilbert Arenas played an unexpected role in his daughter Zaya’s life during a crucial time. In a podcast appearance, Wade shared how Arenas had shown a side of him that few knew—a softer, more compassionate side, especially when it came to kids.
Wade recounted how Arenas had been a supportive figure for his daughter. He backed her up and talked to her like a friend. She also felt more relaxed and ready to face her own parents.
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Watch This Story: “Lying to Me”: Having Dealt With Infidelity, Dwyane Wade’s Wife Gabrielle Finds Peace in Cruel Truth
This genuine moment of connection speaks to meaningful relationships apart from the competition on the court. Beyond the highlights and championships, it’s these personal connections and supportive gestures that truly define the legacy of these NBA legends. Wade sharing Gill’s clip about his game shows that he acknowledges his opinion.
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