Yesterday was the end of an era at American Airlines Arena in Miami, as Dwyane Wade played in his final home game in front of the Heat fans.
To the delight of the crowd–and indeed to the rest of the NBA world–Wade poured in 30 points in a blowout win over the Philadelphia 76ers, proving yet again that he is capable of rising to any occasion.
Miami head coach Erik Spoelstra–who has coached Wade for the majority of his pro career–has campaigned for Wade to keep playing because of the level of success Wade continues to enjoy even at 37 years old.
Speaking to Heat reporter Ira Winderman, Spoelstra reiterated his praise for Wade, saying that “Flash” could still average over 30 points in the right kind of system:
Spoelstra on Wade, “The only reason he didn’t put up 30 a night this season was because of his head coach.” Said Wade prioritized fitting in.
— Ira Winderman (@IraHeatBeat) April 10, 2019
Before Miami's final game on Wednesday night, Wade was averaging 14.9 points, 4.1 assists and 3.9 rebounds per night, and his 48 percent Effective Field Goal percentage rates as his best since the 2014-15 season.
Despite having limited payroll flexibility and dealing with injuries to key players like Goran Dragic, the Heat still made a playoff run, coming up just short of the eighth and final spot in the Eastern Conference.
Spoelstra has credited Wade with aiding in the maturation of players like Josh Richardson and Justise Winslow, both of whom improved dramatically this season.
Wade will retire with over 23,000 points and three championships while also being the all-time leader in blocks among guards.
He is widely regarded as the third-best shooting guard in the history of the NBA behind Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant.
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