Udonis Haslem is considered to be the heart and soul of the Miami Heat culture. A career that lasted for two decades has officially come to an end. Along with it, an integral piece of the Heat gets taken away. For the many years the NBA veteran has been riding with the franchise, he is a proven team captain. He has been there since the get-go of the 2000s era of the Heat as well. Udonis has even played with some of the NBA’s greatest players ever.
Udonis Haslem has never been selected for the All-Star Games nor has he been the best player in the league at any moment. He went undrafted but signed with Heat in 2003. But one thing is for sure, the baller helped build a championship-contending franchise and gave it the competitiveness it possesses today. However, Haslem won three NBA titles, in 2006, 2012, and 2013. Without Udonis, the team wouldn’t have won their 2006 title.
Udonis Haslem averaged 7.5 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 0.8 assists per game, shooting 48.9% from the field throughout his career. He was known for his defense against some of the league’s biggest names, like Hall of Famer Dirk Nowitzki, LeBron James, and many more. These players were never easy to guard. His best season had him averaging 12 points, 9 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game between 2007 and 2008. Udonis’ highest points scored was 28 and the most rebounds he has taken is 18, both recorded twice throughout his career. His voice was very integral as he had one of the brightest minds in the league.
Udonis Haslem strived to take care of Miami
It is quite obvious how important Udonis Haslem is to the City of Miami. The retired legend was born and brought up in Miami. He even started his basketball career in Miami at Wolfson High School and later Miami Senior High School. His father was also a very good basketball player, which explains his deep love for the sport. Haslem went on to play for the University of Florida as well.
A standing ovation for Udonis Haslem as he checks into his final regular season home game 👏 pic.twitter.com/VfiHFdF0O7
— NBA (@NBA) April 9, 2023
This explains his deep connection with the City of Miami. According to the Associated Press, Udonis said, “All I’ve ever tried to do is take care of my people, take care of my city. I think that’s why I can sit down with the mayor and commissioners, or I can sit down with people in the hood, and be comfortable either way. It’s because of the sacrifices that I’ve made for this city.” Globally, he might be known as a former NBA player, but in Miami, he is nothing short of a legend.
UDONIS HASLEM FOR 3! 🔥
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) April 9, 2023
Haslem will most definitely have his jersey retired by the Heat organization next season. No.40 will forever go down as one of the best jersey numbers worn in Miami. The veteran brought several players into the winning mindset and pretty much anchored every roster he has been a part of.