Wade: If you're not with Pat Riley, you're against him

It's no secret Pat Riley is still bitter about Dwyane Wade's departure.

The Miami Heat president stirred up controversy throughout the summer for his unwillingness to send Wade an official farewell, a ploy that didn't surprise the 12-time All-Star.

"I know who Pat is. It's no secret to me," Wade told K.C. Johnson of the Chicago Tribune. "If you're not with him, you're against him. That's just the way he is. You gotta understand that, man.

"I'm cool with it. I'm fine, 100 percent. I was there 13 years. I've seen a lot of video tributes. I've seen a lot of players come in and go out. And I've seen the way he has responded to them. And I know if you're not with him, you're against him."

Related: Wade not speaking to Riley, but has 'no hard feelings'

While Wade admits he has yet to speak to Riley since signing with the Chicago Bulls, the 34-year-old says he still has the utmost respect for him.

"I've been very open, honest about my respect and love for Pat," Wade said. "I've also been honest that I haven't spoken to him since season ended."

Wade will make his long-awaited return to South Beach on Thursday night in what he expects to be an overall positive atmosphere.