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Pat Riley Reveals What Udonis Haslem Means To The Miami Heat

While many believed Udonis Haslem would retire this off-season, he decided to come back for an 18th year and signed a one-year, $2.5 million deal with the Heat.

This also means that when the new season tips off, the Heat legend will become only the 7th player in NBA history to play in 18 seasons with same team. The others are some of NBA history’s greatest in Dirk Nowitzki, Kobe Bryant, Tim Duncan, John Stockton, Karl Malone and Reggie Miller.

But while Haslem’s on-court impact isn’t as big as it used to be, his locker room and mentoring role makes him even more important for the team. This is also what Pat Riley said when he was asked what the veteran means to the Miami Heat:

“His role is so critical for our team. Besides being able to still play, UD keeps everyone together in the locker room and on the road, teaching and mentoring. I think it’s a role he really loves and we are glad he decided to come back.”

Pat Riley on re-signing Udonis Haslem, "His role is so critical for our team. Besides being able to still play, UD keeps everyone together in the locker room and on the road, teaching and mentoring. I think it’s a role he really loves and we are glad he decided to come back."

— Ira Winderman (@IraHeatBeat) November 28, 2020