Skip to content

Wade finally introduced by Bulls

@NBA/Twitter

After 13 years with the Miami Heat, Dwyane Wade was officially unveiled as a member of the Chicago Bulls on Friday.

Seated alongside Bulls general manager Gar Forman, Wade, 34, addressed the media during a summer of flux for the six-time NBA champs.

It didn't take Forman long to mention 'intangibles.'

"We're getting a special player and a special person," Forman offered. "We've got 10 players with three years or less of experience. To have Dwyane show them way, I don't think you can put a value on that."

Forman then gave the floor to Wade, who was quick to admit his motivations, saying, "My dream of becoming an NBA player started here. I know it took a long time to get here. But I am here.

"I can't tell you guys what this means to me. I remember watching a little TV watching the Bulls win a title and realize that this was what I wanted to do."

When asked if he ever considered playing for Chicago during his 13-year spell with Miami, Wade conceded, "I felt like I was gonna get drafted by my hometown team.

"There's a notion out there that I used the Bulls for some sort of leverage (in 2010). It's a place I really wanted to be."

Quick to give credit where credit is due, Wade admits that Jimmy Butler played a massive role in his decision to join the Bulls. With Derrick Rose, Joakim Noah, and Pau Gasol gone, it's Butler's team, and now the two Marquette products will line up alongside each other in Chicago's backcourt.

"This wouldn't have happened if it wasn't for Jimmy Butler," Wade continued, "It won't be a tug and pull whose team it is."

Related: Butler buoyed by new-look Bulls

With Wade and pass-happy Rajon Rondo joining Butler in a decorated Bulls backcourt, questions were raised about the trio's lack of proficiency from three-point land.

"As much as my son loves Stephen Curry, sorry, he's not your dad," Wade joked.

"I'm going to play my game and do what the team needs me to. Our job is to play to our strengths."

Besides speaking highly of Butler and Rondo, Wade was hasty in dismissing claims he and Heat exec Pat Riley had a falling out, prompting the switch to Chicago.

"I have no rift with Pat Riley," he said. "I have nothing but respect for what he's done in this game. I had a contract offer from Miami. It was my decision to be selfish and live out a dream of mine."

Wade finished off by acknowledging reactions from fellow former Olympians Lebron James, Chris Bosh, and Carmelo Anthony, saying, "You come accustomed to seeing people in certain arenas. No one expected this to happen. No one."

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox