The Culture
The Culture, as it has and will a lot this season, comes from a moment involving Wade and his #OneLastDance tour around the league.
There was a moment which took place after the Heat’s 115-109 win over the Wizards, Wade did what he has done a lot on this tour: exchange jerseys with an opposing team’s player after the game.
Things after the game against the Wizards were a little different. Wade exchanged jerseys with Bradley Beal and shared a moment that was one they will both probably remember for a long time.
As reported by Tim Reynolds for the Associated Press, Beal has looked at Wade as a role model, which is why he wears the number 3.
"“I tried not to lose my mind when he first gave it to me because that’s unbelievable,” Beal said. “I’m trying not to be a fan, but I am a fan and I am a huge fan of his game. I try to predicate a little bit of my game off of his. This is probably the first time I’m actually saying that, but he’s a legend forever.”"
Wade appreciated Beal’s words and the space he has had to be an idol for up-and-coming players:
"“Those moments mean everything,” Wade said. “Fan ovations are great, but to be able to have future players coming into this league and good players in this league, and to know you had an impact on their growth, that’s what you want. It meant a lot. When he said it, I thanked him and I hope I was good enough role model for him.”"
The exchange was a reminder of how much Wade means to not only the city of Miami and Heat fans, but to the league and players in it. Between all of those things, his impact has been more than he will probably ever know.
Tune in next week for our next segment the good, bad and Miami Heat culture.