Udonis Haslem has had a legendary career for the last twenty years. As a 42-year-old, it has never been easy for veteran players like him to keep up with the sport. But the former 3x NBA Champion knew exactly where he fits in and what he could provide for his team. This ultimately pushed him to play for so many seasons and is why the Miami Heat kept him around. As many claim him to be, Udonis is the heart and soul of the Heat organization.
Udonis Haslem has played along with quite a few NBA greats, such as LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, Ray Allen, and Chris Bosh as well. He was never a selfish player and always rooted for his teammates. This is what made him a great player and why the Heat preferred having him around to mentor the new recruits. His career did not have the usual start, however.
Back in 2002, he went un-drafted despite being one of the top players for the University of Florida. Then he finally earned his first NBA contract and the Heat welcomed him with arms wide open. His NBA journey began in 2003 along with Wade as well. He went on to play a key role in the Heat’s 2006 title campaign against the Dallas Mavericks and Dirk Nowitzki. Eventually, after Bron and Bosh joined, he played alongside them to win two more titles.
Udonis Haslem stat Comparison: His first game vs. his last game in the NBA
Udonis Haslem had a very significant role to play on the roster. He was the Heat’s motivator and mentor for the many years he spent in Miami. The former NBA Champion averaged a career of 7.5 points and 6.6 rebounds per game, shooting well over 45% from the field as well. Udonis did not have the best stats but contributed key moments to help Miami get countless victories since 2003.
Udonis Haslem receives a standing ovation as he checks out of his final regular season home game 👏 pic.twitter.com/rRnDNGoTyd
— NBA (@NBA) April 9, 2023
During his very first game, he appeared against the Philadelphia 76ers and played for 27 minutes. He put on a show on offense and defense, contributing 2 points, a single assist, a steal and a block along with 8 total rebounds. This first game was almost a statement made that he knew what he was doing. He only attempted 5 field goals and shot 20% as well. Miami had a horrible start that season, losing seven of their first ten games.
However, things have become extremely different with the Heat since then. Although still very competitive, Miami has been bouncing in and out of playoff and title contention. Either Udonis Haslem still made sure to stand strong. During his final season, he almost did not participate in any game at all. However, during the final game of the regular season in 2023, Udonis scored 24 points and grabbed 3 rebounds, leading the Heat to a victory against the Magic.