The Miami Heat plan to retire Udonis Haslem’s jersey once the latter retires at the end of the 2022/23 season.
This is what Miami president Pat Riley revealed, praising the 42-year-old big man for what he brought to the squad since his first appearance in 2003.
“From the first day that I saw him compete, to the last day when we retire his jersey at our FTX home, UD [Udonis Haselm] will go down in our team’s history as one of the best to ever play for the Miami Heat,” Riley told Miami’s official website.
More on @ThisIsUD re-signing for a franchise-record 20th season at home in Miami https://t.co/wHy8F6W9al
— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) August 23, 2022
On Sunday, Udonis Haslem announced that he will return to the Heat for his 20th season, which will be his final one as a professional.
The 42-year-old big man has spent his entire career with Miami, joining the franchise in 2003 and winning three NBA championships (2006, 2012, 2013).
Over the past few years, he has had a limited role in the rotation, but his locker room presence and mentorship are vital for Erik Spoelstra’s squad.
Haslem appeared in only 13 games last season and averaged 2.5 points and 1.9 rebounds. In his 872 career games, Haslem has averaged 7.5 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 0.8 assists per game.
The three-time champion will become just the third player in NBA history to play at least 20 years with one NBA franchise in their career, joining only Kobe Bryant and Dirk Nowitzki.
The real Mr. 305 has joined some historic NBA company with his decision to return for season 20
Find out who's in the exclusive club and where @ThisIsUD ranks on some of our All-Time franchise lists ⬇️
— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) August 23, 2022
