Udonis Haslem Hesitates to “Choose Violence” Against Paul Pierce After Celtics Legend Throws Disrespect on Heat Honor

Some rivalries never die. While the Los Angeles Lakers remain the historical rival for the Boston Celtics, their feud with the Miami Heat has taken on a new level. Since the Boston Big Three came together in 2007, the two sides have been at odds constantly. Further, repeated battles in the Eastern Conference playoffs have led to an intense game of one-upmanship. One that extends even into retirement. While the team in Florida was celebrating the career of a legend, Paul Pierce didn’t take too kindly to the honor. As a result, a legendary rivalry might have another chapter in it.

The next chapter in their storied animosity came due to the Heat retiring Udonis Haslem’s jersey. While typically an honor for the team’s greatest players, contributions to the organization can be subjective. However, Pierce wasn’t ready to accept that. Instead, the jersey retirement clip had the 2008 NBA Champion commenting, “This one given bro just saying” with the shrug emoji.

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While his counting stats were never eye-popping, the impact Haslem had on the team was undeniable. Through veteran leadership, locker room leader, and player developer, UD would embrace multiple coats on the team. So, to limit his value to just numbers would be a gross disservice.

As a result, an individual as fiery as Udonis, who did not spare even the late, great Bill Russell was sure to offer some comeback. However, the veteran chose to take the high road instead. “@paulpierce my first reaction was to choose violence but I’m gon spare cause I know you ain’t like that. You’re entitled to your opinion my boy!!!!”

While outwardly the comment feels like the personification of Heat Culture letting bygones be bygones, my boy adjective at the end could be the enticer.

The My Boy Tale between Udonis Haslem and Paul Pierce

During his time with the team, the 20-year veteran would face off against Boston 6 times in the playoffs. In those meetings, the latest Heat jersey retiree came out on top 4 times. As a result, my boy insult does have some validity behind it.

However, a legend in his own right, The Truth might not take too kindly to the insult. With other parts like Dwyane Wade and Kevin Garnett in the picture, the situation could turn ugly if Pierce responds. Will he have an answer for UD’s sneaky diss?

Or is he taking the high road in this rivalry?

Read More: Sacrificial Lamb for LeBron James’ Legacy, Udonis Haslem Gets Love From Ex-Heat Teammate Upon Jersey Retirement