Miami Heat legend Dwyane Wade is widely regarded as the greatest player in the franchise’s history, earning recognition in a prestigious ranking.
ESPN’s list of the top 25 NBA players of the 21st century placed Wade at the No. 8 spot. He ranked just above the Phoenix Suns’ Kevin Durant and right behind the Denver Nuggets’ Nikola Jokic.
Wade, who joined the league in 2003, boasts an impressive résumé that includes three NBA championships and 13 All-Star appearances. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst highlighted Wade’s accomplishments, noting, “In the two seasons before James arrived in Miami, Wade won the scoring title and twice finished in the top five of the MVP voting. He willingly took a step back for James, an act that undoubtedly helped the Heat gel and win back-to-back titles, even if it meant the end of his time at the top of those lists.”
Wade’s decision to become the No. 2 option is rare among today’s superstars, who often seek to remain in the spotlight. The Heat, who drafted Wade as a 22-year-old from Marquette, reaped the benefits of his sacrifice by winning two championships with James.
Windhorst further noted Wade’s team-first mentality, which extended to his willingness to come off the bench for the Redeem Team in the 2008 Olympics. Wade is still regarded as one of the greatest shooting guards of all time, the best shot-blocking guard in NBA history, and a prominent member of the iconic 2003 draft class.
Since retiring in 2019, Wade has remained involved with the Heat, continuing to contribute to the team that helped him realize his potential over 15 years.
