Lack Of Support From Dwyane Wade, Udonis Haslem Doesn't Stop Orlando Magic From Backing Ron DeSantis

Former Miami Heat stars have made it clear they are not fans of Florida Governor and presidential candidate Ron DeSantis.

The Heat's counterparts a couple hundred miles north think otherwise.

On Wednesday, it was made the public the Orlando Magic made a contribution to DeSantis' 2024 campaign. The NBA Players' Association released a statement distancing itself from the Magic's choice.

“A political contribution from the Orlando Magic is alarming given recent comments and policies of its beneficiary," the NBPA said Thursday in a statement. "NBA governors, players and personnel have the right to express their personal political views, including through donations and statements. However, if contributions are made on behalf of an entire team, using money earned through the labor of its employees, it is incumbent upon the team governors to consider the diverse values and perspectives of staff and players. The Magic’s donation does not represent player support for the recipient."

DeSantis has drawn mixed reviews for his beliefs on race, diversity and the gay community. Both drew criticism from Haslem and Wade, causing them to make critical comments.

“Well first and foremost I’m going to ask people out there to stop Florida-shaming us," Haslem said. "Everybody ain’t down with what’s going on in Florida. People think that because you live in Florida, like you just down with the [expletive]. We’re not. I’m not down with it. I’m not happy about it ... I happen to live there and I was born there. It’s not my fault. So please stop Florida-shaming us people. We’re not happy about what this man [DeSantis] is doing. Diversity and inclusion and taking the [books away]. We’re not happy about that. I sit at home on the couch with my wife and raise hell.”

Wade went far as saying DeSantis' reign made him move from Florida. His family now lives in Los Angeles. Wade is a strong supporter of LGBT rights because his daughter, Zaya, identifies as transgender.

I don’t live in the state," Wade said. "A lot of people don’t know that. I have to make decisions for my family, not just personal, individual decisions."

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