“Being a Good Veteran”: Miami Heat Veteran Reflects on His Responsibilities Towards the Younger Teammates

The Miami Heat are on fire in this season’s Playoffs. Not only have they reached the Eastern Conference Finals, but they are also the most viable candidates for winning this year’s NBA Finals. Looks like the biggest advantage for them has been having a veteran around in their locker room. Someone who can impart knowledge and experience that they lacked during last season’s championship contention.

In a recent interview, veteran Andre Iguodala opens up about how it feels like being that veteran in the team. Also, he spoke about the importance of being the person the younger players look up to.

 Andre Iguodala on what his responsibility is as a veteran

Andre is asked a complex question. “Earlier you talked about the vets; did you ever visualize you’d ever be that, especially when you’re 21 and you look at 32 and you’re like, I’ll never get there, that’s light-years away, and now you’re that guy? How do you take that in when you get older in this league and you kind of have to accept it?”

Iguodala had a very philosophical and mature outlook on this question, saying, ” Yeah, I mean, it’s not really that hard. It’s just something that you’re supposed to do. I forgot what book it was I was reading, but I think I’ve seen it multiple times in terms of once you master something it’s your duty to give it back and teach it, so that’s kind of my duty.”

He further elaborated on how the more experienced player can influence the youngsters. “I’ve seen it at all levels, high levels, and no matter if I’m the main guy, franchise player, or I’m one of the guys coming off the bench, just being a veteran player, being a role player, it’s a different way of being all in,” said Andre.

“It may not just be production but it may be in terms of being a leader and being a good veteran, being a good teacher, helping the guys through the tough times, helping them improve, giving them that confidence at the same time, giving them encouragement.” 

Having a veteran has made an enormous difference in the Heat’s performance. Veterans add a lot of maturity to the game-play, which can startle the opposition.

Is Miami Heat most eligible to win the NBA Finals?

Considering the unbeatable run they’ve had, there is no doubt they can win the ring this year. However, the Celtics are buckling up. They have fought the 2-0 deficit and have narrowed it down to just one game away from a tie. The Miami Heat have just lost two games since they started their playoff run, and their momentum won’t be easy to break.