If you are wondering why your social media feed is filled with some of Dwyane Wade‘s iconic moments, it is because the Miami Heat legend just turned 42. The NBA community has taken turns to wish the Flash a happy birthday, but 3x WNBA champion Candace Parker stole the show with her nostalgic post for “MY GUY“. Both basketball icons have come a long way and it is only fair that Parker gives this unique tribute to her mentor.

Parker shared an unearthed picture of Wade and her from the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where they both won a Gold. She wrote, “Happy birthday to MY GUY…From the Olympics, taking me under your wing in college, ESPYs, to sending your special edition DWADE SIDECICK, to working together, celebrating one another, laughing, wine, serious talks and always being there. I love ya! HAPPY BIRTHDAY.”

The 37-year-old shared another story with Wade, writing, “Thanx for always showing up for me. The world is better with you in it!” That was an emotional and heartfelt wish. The two have been great friends from the beginning of their careers and it has been a rollercoaster of emotions.

Most importantly, the two have been there for each other on every occasion. One such famous moment was when Candace Parker left the Los Angeles Sparks. In 2021, Parker decided to call it quits on the LA Sparks after a 13-year-long journey. It is not easy to bid farewell to your second home, but it was easier for Parker to get back to her native, Chicago.

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Dwyane Wade called out the LA Sparks for Candace Parker’s departure

Despite being a part of such a long and historic journey, Parker did not feel valued there, and thus the big decision. The first one to stand with the 3x champion was none other than Wade. He also called out the WNBA organization for letting her go. 

After Parker signed with the Chicago Sky, Wade tweeted, “What when they don’t appreciate your worth looks like. I’m happy for my friend and teammate that she’s going back HOME!!! but @LASparks no that’s your legacy.“ Parker played a huge role in Spark’s third championship and her first in 2016. She brought home another one in Chicago and another one this season in Las Vegas. She is the only WNBA player to have won three rings with three different teams. 

Read more: ‘Big Brother to all of us’: 2021 Champion Candace Parker Explains What Kobe Bryant and Gigi Mean to the WNBA

Now you can understand what the Sparks lost. This is an example to show how Wade and Parker have been there for each other. It is a long ride and it will continue.