MIAMI — Udonis HaslemOfficially back with the Miami Heat
Haslem has signed another contract, the 10th in his career with the Heat. The deal assures him that he will play for the Heat again during the 19th season. This is a $2.8million contract for one year.
Only five players have spent an entire professional career with the same franchise, including Dirk Nowitzki at 41 years old. Dirk Nowitzki played all 21 NBA seasons for the franchise. Dallas MavericksKobe Bryant spent twenty-one hours with them Los Angeles LakersTim Duncan spent 19 days with The San Antonio Spurs John StocktonThe recipient spent 19 on the Utah Jazz
Haslem plays a special role in the Heat’s roster. With just five appearances the previous two seasons and only one in last season, Haslem barely played. Erik Spoelstra, Heat coach, considers him indispensable for many reasons. He sets an example for the other players in practice and how important it is for the native Miamian to be the team’s captain.
Heat president Pat Riley stated that Udonis haslem agreed to play the game again. He loves nothing more than being on the court competing and teaching against the best. UD is a legendary player… ONE PLAYER. ONE CIITY. ONE TEAM. Thank you, UD. You have returned to your hometown, your organisation, and your team.
Haslem, who was nearly two and a half years younger than Anderson Varejao, was the oldest person to enter a game in NBA history. If he is able to get into a game after Nov. 8, he will be the 11th oldest player in NBA history.
On the NBA’s most senior-player list, Haslem would be left behind with only Nat Hickey (Kevin Willis), Robert Parish and Vince Carter.
Last season, Haslem made a memorable appearance. Haslem scored four points and grabbed a rebound. He was also whistled for two technical fouls, which led to him being ejected. Philadelphia 76ersAll this in just 2 minutes 40 seconds on May 13.
Haslem stated that “if this is the final one, then I completed it in the only way Udonis Haslem can — with an expulsion.”
Haslem, Dwyane Wade and Haslem are the only players to have appeared on each of Miami’s three NBA championship teams. Haslem has been the Heat’s only Eastern Conference champion player. Haslem is the top player in the franchise’s history in rebounding, second in minutes and games played and seventh in scoring.