Dwyane Wade Moments That Defined His Heat Career

While LeBron James is the best player to ever wear a Heat jersey, his former running mate Dwyane Wade is the greatest Heat player ever. With countless All-Star and All-NBA appearances, three championships, and a Finals MVP, there is no wonder why the city of Miami metaphorically renamed “Dade County” as “Wade County.” Outside of the numbers, here are a few moments that defined Wade’s Heat career in his 14 years in Miami.

3. Purple Shirt Game

A Game 6 first round matchup with Charlotte in 2016 means little to nothing in the grand scheme of Wade’s career. The fact that a heckler had the nerve to tell him to retire as Wade singlehandedly won the game for Miami is what makes this so memorable. After eight points in the last three-plus minutes including an improbable turnaround over Jeremy Lamb, all Wade could do was stare down Purple Shirt.

2. "This is My House"

The year is 2009. Wade is en route to winning his one and only scoring title that season. Following a steal on Bulls’ John Salmons, Wade took two dribbles and pulled up for a running game winner from deep. Following the bucket, Wade jumped up on the announcer’s table to yell out “this is my house.” That moment in time became Wade’s future trademark anytime he hit a game-winner in Miami.

1. Game 3 of the 2006 Finals

With Dallas taking a commanding 2-0 lead, Miami was in a must-win game going back to the 305. A 24-year-old Wade sparked a 13-point fourth quarter comeback for the Heat. With 42 points and 13 rebounds, Wade led the way for a 98-96 nail-biting victory to bring the series to 2-1. How did the rest of the series turn out? Wade averaged 38.3 points over the next three games to close out Dallas 4-2.