For the first time since 2002, the Miami Heat will open their regular season without Dwyane Wade on the roster, after the 34-year-old signed a two-year, $47.5-million contract with the Chicago Bulls this summer.
Undoubtedly the most influential player in franchise history, Wade thanked his South Florida fans by taking out a billboard featuring his likeness and signature at Interstates 95 and 395 that says "Thank You Miami."
No... Thank you, @DwyaneWade #ClassAct pic.twitter.com/srDrQbv7sE
— Mike Ryan (@MichaelRyanRuiz) September 16, 2016
Wade was selected fifth overall by the franchise during the 2003 NBA Draft, spending the next 13 seasons capturing three championships, making 12 All-Star teams, and being named to two All-NBA first teams.
Once negotiations with Heat management fell apart, he elected to take his talents home to the Windy City.
Related: Riley 'floored' by Wade's decision to leave Heat: 'We will miss him'
The Bulls will visit the American Airlines Arena on Nov. 10 to take on Miami in Wade's only visit back to South Beach this season.
- With h/t to the Sun Sentinal's Ira Winderman
