It seems like Miami Heat center Hassan Whiteside‘s trip to Africa was a success.
Hassan Whiteside was a man of few words when it came to describing his recent trip to Africa, but even so, one thing was clear: it was a success.
"“Life changing, life changing.”"
The Miami Heat center went to South Africa to compete in the 2018 NBA Africa game, an honor that was bestowed on only a handful of players in the league. And while that contest alone was enough to open Whiteside’s eyes, the journey overseas was about so much more.
"“…from building houses with kids, from seeing kids playing basketball, from taking selfies with all the kids around the world. It’s a dream come true.”"
All eyes have been on the big man this summer, after a lackluster 2017-18 run. While many were expecting Whiteside to be traded, president Pat Riley made it clear that the organization was excited to move forward together, with head coach Erik Spoelstra echoing the message himself.
And the feeling seems to be mutual, as Whiteside recently spoke on letting his frustration get the best of him last year, both on and off the court.
Even more telling perhaps though, is his apparent dedication to honing his craft this summer; starting first and foremost with participating in the Africa Game. As if going the distance wasn’t commitment enough, the preparation it took was on a whole other level.
"“I’ve just been working all summer. The altitude out here is as high as Denver,” Whiteside explained. “Them lungs are burning. I wish I could train out here.”"
The game itself was hard work too.
"“It was more physical than the playoff games. It was competitive. Guys were playing on defense.”"
It showed.
Although in the end, Whiteside had a solid showing, finishing the game with 11 points (going 5-for-5 from the field, including one 3-pointer), six rebounds and three blocks in almost 19 minutes off of the bench, it took him a while to get into a groove.
Still, he pushed through his mistakes and never gave up for a second, keeping his energy up and being active even while taking a breather on the bench.
A great sight to see, heading into the 2018-19 season.
He also very much fed off of the crowd, continuing to show his love for Heat Nation even on the road.
"“I never thought that kids in Africa or anybody in Africa would know my name. It takes me back. It’s crazy… It was so many. I was surprised by how many Whiteside’s jerseys I’ve seen. Heat Nation was in Africa, that’s crazy”"
With training camp merely about month away, fans should only expect more hard work and dedication from Whiteside, who seems intent on starting an entirely new chapter with the Heat.
Here’s to Whiteside making the Miami Heat proud.