Miami Heat legend Dwyane Wade is preparing to celebrate the 20th anniversary of his first NBA championship on June 20.
Wade led the Heat to their inaugural title in 2006, earning Finals MVP honors after defeating the Dallas Mavericks in six games.
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He averaged 34.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 2.7 steals during that series.
On Thursday, Wade posted a video sitting alongside his Finals MVP trophy, expressing excitement for the milestone.
“My daughter got a big recital on the 20th, we ain’t just celebrating her recital on the 20th, we’re celebrating my Finals MVP trophy, too, on the 20th,” he said.
“I’mma put it in the backyard … it’s a celebration.”
Wade became the second player from the 2003 draft class to win an NBA championship, achieving the feat in just his third season.
He was supported by veterans Shaquille O’Neal, Alonzo Mourning, Gary Payton, Jason Williams, and Antoine Walker.
After the 2006 title, the Heat struggled, suffering a first-round exit in 2007 and missing the playoffs in 2008.
Miami returned to the postseason in 2009 but lost to the Atlanta Hawks, followed by another first-round defeat to the Boston Celtics.
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The franchise’s fortunes changed when the Heat signed LeBron James and Chris Bosh, forming a trio with Wade.
Miami reached the NBA Finals four straight years, winning two more championships.
Wade ended his career with three NBA titles. When asked about his favorite championship run, he chose the 2006 victory.
“All championships are great. Winning is great.
Winning small moments in life is great. But nothing like that,” he said.
“Nothing like proving to yourself and proving to the people who are in that foxhole with you that you actually can do it, man.
I was so proud of us. That’s one of my proudest moments in life.”
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Wade remains confident that his Finals MVP accolade cannot be diminished. He looks forward to the upcoming celebration.
