

“That’s beautiful,” said Dwyane Wade about his statue. It’s been over a month since The Flash’s statue unveiling, an event that was meant to immortalize the NBA legend’s legacy but instead became the center of heated debates. Critics have been vocal about the statue’s lack of resemblance to his face, with social media ablaze with comparisons and commentary. Yet, amid the controversy, a moment of pure pride and familial love emerged.
In a recent episode of his podcast titled Gratitude, Dwyane Wade reflected on the emotional ceremony. When asked how he felt about Zaire’s speech, the former Miami Heat star couldn’t hide his admiration. “It was fire,” he said, his voice brimming with pride.
“I saw TFO put that out on his Instagram surely after that it was fire… He was like enjoy the traffic and I was like, yeah that’s fire. You know what I mean that something that my son said that I say, kind of took the airwaves like that you know. So some good came out of, some good press came out of that moment,” said Wade during the podcast.
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Originally, three speakers were slated to commemorate Wade’s legacy: Pat Riley, the legendary team president; Udonis Haslem, Wade’s long-time teammate and close friend; and Zaire. While Riley and Haslem offered their heartfelt tributes, it was Zaire’s speech that became the centerpiece of the event, with one particular ending quote capturing everyone’s attention and going viral across social media platforms.
“Before I finish I want to give one an analogy that my Pops taught me and I go about it every day. I want you guys to take it with you. Parents teach it to your kids if you haven’t, but enjoy the traffic. Whatever you do, enjoy the traffic. Basically meaning that you know we all have a GPS, and we’re all in a hurry to get there, especially when we see the red or the yellow on the map.”
“This blocking this and we’re going to be late, but sometimes you got to sit there, enjoy the traffic like my dad likes to say turn the volume down and just be at peace with what’s going on in a moment. Stay present, stay focused. I appreciate you for teaching me that. Obviously on my journey I continue to take it day by day, do my part. Hopefully, that translates to continuing your legacy. Love you Pops!” said Zaire during his speech.

via Imago
Jan 14, 2024; Miami, Florida, USA; Former Miami Heat player Dwayne Wade reacts after learning a statue will be erected outside of Kaseya Center in 2025, during a special ceremony during halftime of the game between the Miami Heat and the Charlotte Hornets. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-Imagn Images
The emotional depth of the moment was perhaps most poignantly captured when Zaire’s words moved Dwyane Wade to tears. In a touching display of family support, his five-year-old daughter Kaavia stepped in and hugged him. While the statue may have missed the mark in some eyes, the unveiling ceremony offered a poignant reminder of what truly matters. Moreover, the 22-year-old isn’t just following his father’s sayings but also carrying on his legacy on the court.
What’s your perspective on:
Can Zaire Wade ever match the legendary status of his father on the basketball court?
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Wade’s legacy is being carried on by his son
The Miami Heat got Wade during the 2003 draft as their fifth pick. Wade, who averaged 22 points, 5.4 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game over his entire 16-year career, is just one of the greatest to ever lace them up on the court.
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Today, the Wade legacy continues through his son, Zaire Wade. While Zaire has not yet reached the dazzling skill and dominance of his father, the young player is already showcasing impressive abilities.
After high school, he started playing for the G-League team the Salt Lake City Stars where he was selected as a 10th overall pick and he averaged 3.2 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game.
Next, he went to the African League to play for the Cape Town Tigers and averaged 9.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game before getting to the Macau Black Bears of The Asian Tournament.
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Zaire’s journey is far from done — his YouTube stint is likely in the cards in the future — but the 26-year-old’s dedication to personal and professional growth is a testament to the effect his father’s legacy on him. Can Zaire reach his father’s heights? Let us know in the comments.
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Can Zaire Wade ever match the legendary status of his father on the basketball court?