Miami Heat: For the organization, loyalty is the name of the game

Loyalty is something the Miami Heat know a thing or two about.

On Monday, it was announced that Udonis Haslem would be returning to the Miami Heat for his 16th season in the league.

A decision that many saw coming, but perhaps not for the correct reasons.

At 38, the veteran doesn’t have to play anymore. He’s won three championships. Raked in enough cash. Earned a name for himself.

So despite what some may think, Haslem isn’t continuing on with the Heat for another paycheck or to prove his worth.

And it’s not because he just can’t let go of the lifestyle either.

The power forward re-signed to a one-year, $2.4 million deal because he believes in the organization. And wants to do whatever he can, to help make it as successful as possible.

"“It’s about my love for the organization and my love for the guys,” Haslem explained."

It’s true that earlier this summer, the Miami-native expressed wanting more playing time. He even was reportedly considering an offer to play overseas for a Chinese team. But at the end of the day, he realized it was more important to remain with his Miami Heat family.

Still, before agreeing to his new contract, he did spend some time with head coach Erik Spoelstra, having an honest conversation about his role, moving forward.

"“Me and Spo were honest with each other. Honesty is not always telling somebody what they want to hear. And we both have gotten to that point in our careers where we value each other’s opinions, whether we want to hear them or not. We trust each other.”"

Now what exactly that will mean in regards to Haslem’s minutes is still yet to be seen, but at the very least, both parties were able to openly express themselves; a telling sign of the love between No.40 and the franchise.

As a ball club, the Heat have always been known to hold the notion of loyalty to the highest standard. That is why president Pat Riley was so angry when LeBron James decided to return back to the Cleveland Cavaliers after four seasons in Miami.

And why it was so shocking that Dwyane Wade left for the Chicago Bulls in 2016.

But all’s well that ends well, and Wade ultimately found his way back to South Florida, where he has always belonged.

Of course not everyone understands the power of The Culture; despite Wade himself making it clear that he will never play for another team again, many are still speculating his decision whether or not to re-sign for this upcoming season is taking so long because he’s also considering joining James once more in Los Angeles.

(Keep dreaming, Lakers fans.)

While it’s not clear what the 36-year-old will end up deciding, Haslem wants one more year alongside his best friend.

"“My mindset has always been for us to finish it together. I want us to do a whole season together. Experience the road, dinner on the road, go through that whole process. I want us to experience that together.”"

Fingers crossed that Wade is on the same page.

Here’s to Haslem for always putting the Miami Heat first.