Inside The Heat

Miami Heat’s Twitter Reacts to Udonis Haslem Tribute on Social Media

The 20-year Miami Heat veteran will play his final regular season game against the Orlando Magic.
Jayden Armant|
Miami Heat’s Twitter Reacts to Udonis Haslem Tribute on Social Media
Miami Heat’s Twitter Reacts to Udonis Haslem Tribute on Social Media

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Miami Heat

Miami Heat veteran Udonis Haslem has been the target of criticism on social media for his lack of playing time over the past couple of years. But now that his time in the NBA is nearing the end, Heat fans are starting to get emotional in remembrance of his career. The Heat released a video of former Heat teammates congratulating Haslem for his longevity in the league.

Haslem plays the final game of his 20-year career Sunday against the Orlando Magic. 

The video featured Heat legends like Dwyane Wade and LeBron James, but also had short-term players like Andre Iguodola and Jae Crowder. This displays the impact Haslem had on Heat players throughout the years. Fans joined these players in commemorating Haslem.

“Thank you UD for everything that you have done for the Miami Heat,” one fan said. “This team wouldn’t be the same without you. Much love!”

Fans were actually defending Haslem’s presence on the team instead of bashing him for “taking a roster spot.”

“All the people knocking his last few seasons have no clue the type of leader he is,” another fan said. “UD deserves all of the love and a coaching spot if he wants it. Exemplified Heat culture and all that came with it. Enjoy retirement @ThisIsUD you deserve it big guy!”

Some of the criticism for Haslem could leave some believing that Heat fans would celebrate his departure. Instead, many expressed sadness in seeing Haslem finally leaving the team after so long. The video also conjured memories of other appreciated players such as Goran Dragic, which made fans emotional as well.

Haslem retires as the Heat's all-time leading rebounder and with three championships. 

Jayden Armant is a contributor to Inside the Heat. He is a student at Howard University. He can be reached at jayden.armant@bison.howard.edu or follow him on Twitter @jaydenarmant.

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Jayden Armant
JAYDEN ARMANT

Jayden is a journalism school graduate of Howard University. He was the 2024 recipient of the Terez Paylor scholarship award. He previously worked at the Orlando Sentinel.

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