Predicting where each Miami Heat free agent will play in 2023-24
By Dalton Sell
Udonis Haslem – Retirement
It’s been public knowledge for a while that Udonis Haslem would be retiring whenever the Heat’s 2022-23 season ended. After spending his entire career in a Heat uniform, Haslem’s 20-year NBA journey has officially concluded, meaning he won’t be on the sidelines for the first time in a long time on opening night. At this time, it’s unclear what’s next for Haslem, but he said that he wants to be a part of the organization for the rest of his life in some capacity. Whether it’s ownership or some kind of staff role, that seems like it’s inevitable.
Haslem’s Heat career includes six trips to the NBA Finals and three championships. He’s posted career averages of 7.5 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 0.8 assists in 879 regular season appearances. Haslem has both the second-most appearances in the regular season and playoffs for the Heat, trailing only Dwyane Wade. While he didn’t play much during the final stages of his career, fans have forgotten how impactful Haslem was back in the day, as he was key in helping the Heat as they won several championships.
The 43-year-old will now ride off into the sunset as one of the greatest stories ever told involving an undrafted player. It’s only a matter of time before Haslem’s jersey goes up in the Miami rafters.