Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler surprised the NBA world this offseason when he announced he would be taking his talents to South Beach.
Many assumed he would re-sign with the Philadelphia 76ers, who traded for him in the middle of the 2018-19 season.
Instead, Jimmy Butler ended up becoming the first true star on a scrappy, well-built Heat team.
When questioned on why he made the move, Butler focused primarily on one aspect; the Heat culture:
Jimmy Butler, on why he came to Miami: "It's the culture I hear about all the time. The winning ways, who wouldn't want to be a part of that? When I keep hearing about that culture, I [said] I need that in my life."
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) September 27, 2019
Jimmy on Dwyane's involvement: "No. 3 was like, 'This culture fits you.'"
— Tim Reynolds (@ByTimReynolds) September 27, 2019
Jimmy confirms AP report from June that the Dwyane Wade last-home-game celebration weighed heavily on his mind in the decisionmaking process. "The fans embraced him … I want to be a part of it," Butler said.
— Tim Reynolds (@ByTimReynolds) September 27, 2019
It makes sense why Butler would focus on landing with a team that has a winning history. Although Butler has made the playoffs seven times in his eight-year career, he's never made a Conference Finals appearance.
The Miami Heat, on the other hand, have had an excellent decade. The franchise made six playoff appearances and went to the Finals four times. With the Heatles at the helm, the organization won two championships. They only finished below .500 once in those 10 seasons.
All this was definitely a huge factor in making Miami Butler's final decision. After facing locker room drama in his last couple seasons, it seems like Jimmy Buckets is ready to settle down and focus on winning.
Additionally, Butler will be the sole star on the Heat. While the roster does include some solid players like Goran Dragic and a rising star in Bam Adebayo, Butler will certainly be ‘The Man' in Miami.
With some successful years, he might even see his jersey rise to the rafters and join the other stars who brough glory to AmericanAirlines Arena.
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