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via Getty

via Getty

As the Paris Olympic games kick-off, a new chapter has unfolded for the NBA legend Dwyane Wade. In his third appearance at the games, the Miami star arrives as a commentator for basketball. But seems like it hasn’t been as smooth a sail as it was with his last Olympic appearance. Once celebrated for his on-court heroics, Wade is now questioned about his ability to deliver in the booth.

Dwyane Wade teamed up with play-by-play announcer Noah Eagle for their first broadcast together at the Olympics for the men’s basketball games. The two’s commentary then was well appreciated with one of Wade’s analyses covering Victor Wembanyama’s play. “it’s the patience of this player … to make sure that his teammates get involved and get into the game first,” he had said during the France vs Brazil opening game. His later hilarious incorporation of space jam and an enthusiastic tone for Guerschon Yabusele’s dunk was equally loved.

In the next few moments, Wade even shared a screenshot on his Instagram story, revealing his name to be trending on X. However, there has been dissatisfaction surrounding his new role as well. “It’s a new challenge, and I’m still finding my voice. I appreciate the feedback and am committed to improving,” he acknowledged the learning curve in a recent interview.

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So what has the internet got to say?

Dwyane Wade faces mixed reviews for his Olympic commentator debut

Dwyane Wade has been a part of the 2004 and 2008 Olympics, winning bronze and gold respectively. His 13 All-Star appearances, further, paired with his bond with a few of Team USA’s players, had him favorable of the role. But seems like Wade’s experience, which was the point for NBC Olympics president and executive producer Molly Solomon, wasn’t everything for the criteria among fans.

“Get Dwyane Wade off my TV please,” one of the users on X posted. While another wrote, “Dwyane Wade is awful bro.”

Fans were further unimpressed with the substance and analysis despite Wade’s hilarity. The 3x champion had replied, “Yes, on Space Jam,” when Eagle commented, “have you ever seen anything like that?” on Wemby’s dunk. While most found it a good one, it did not seem enough. “Dwyane Wade only has 2 dialogue options,” a comment read.

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But some did find Wade’s overall role decent enough, but only after taking a dig at others. “I thought he was okay, not as bad as some former players.” You’d be surprised to find Reggie Miller, Shaquille O’Neal, and Charles Barkley were once on the latter list among numerous more. Still might be. Chuck and Shaq, though now loved for their hilarity, found that to be their point of criticism as well. Would that be the case for Wade?

Well, it was a split audience. Wade was loved for his “America, you know him as LeBron James, I know him personally. His pronouns are he/him,” remark and the duo commended for their dynamic. “Dwayne Wade + Ian Eagle the commentating couple we didn’t know we needed,” one expressed. A good thing for them NBC recently acquired NBA rights.

Regardless, Wade has acknowledged the challenge and is committed to improving as he embraces this new role.

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Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting pilot episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and SEC All-Freshman Team Selection, Silas Demary Jr.