For the first time after signing with Chicago Bulls, Dwyane Wade returned to American Airlines Arena to play against his former team, Miami Heat, Thursday. Despite winning with the Bulls, Wade received multiple standing ovations from Heat Nation.
As reported by ESPN, Wade immediately received cheers from the crowd as he entered the Arena. Miami Heat also honored their former shooting guard with a tribute video while on a timeout during the first quarter.
Grateful, the three-time NBA Champion walked back on the court after the video was over and blew kisses to the fans. He also hugged his former teammates and team staff. The crowd continued cheering for him, chanting "D-Wade! D-Wade!"
The video showed Wade's various significant moments with Heat including his rookie draft in 2003. It also featured his iconic moves, and achievements, including the team's first championship in 2006 and back to back title in 2012 and 2013 (with Lebron James and Chris Bosh-Miami's Big 3).
Back in 2006, in his first finals appearance and Heat's first championship, the 6'4" shooting guard was also named the finals MVP. Later that night, the tribute was posted on Miami Heat's official Facebook and Twitter account @MiamiHEAT captioned, "Thank you for 13 unforgettable years @DwyaneWade!"
As previously reported by JobsnHire, the 34-year-old cager made one of the biggest decisions in his basketball career last summer after signing with Chicago Bulls-leaving his first and team for 13 long years.
Like his former teammate, LeBron James, who went back to his homeland in Cleveland, Chicago-born Wade also went back to his hometown to play with the team. Though it was strange seeing him in red number 3 jersey that says Bulls, former Heat best player said he's still keeping his former teammates close.
But despite old friends, Wade says they had to play hard on the court. "For 13 years I've been on one side of the arena and heard my name called last as a member of the Miami Heat. Tonight it's not that," said Wade.
Former teammate and close friend Udonis Haslem also pointed out, ""We're going to compete." Chicago Bulls beats Miami Heat by three points, 98-95 Thursday night. Wade scored 13 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists.
With all the sweat and glory he and the team shared-Three NBA Championships, 2006 MVP, 12-time NBA All-Star, Miami, just like what the Heat Nation says, will always be "Wade County."
