Wade = Legitimate NBA Superstar

Tonight the Miami Heat, led by NBA Finals’ MVP Dwyane “Flash” Wade and Shaquille “Big Diesel” O’Neal, captured their first NBA Championship with a close 95 – 92 win over the Dallas Mavericks in my relocated hometown of Dallas.* This series was a coming out party for Wade, who averaged 35 points per game and seemingly carried the team on his back, scoring over 40 points per game, as the Heat battled back from 0 – 2 deficient in the best of seven series. Interestingly enough, Michael “Air” Jordan was the last person to average over 35 points per game in four consecutive NBA Finals games.

Wade was a basketball machine throughout the series: slashing to the basket, playing lockdown defense, and distributing the ball to the open man. Although former Atlanta Hawk Jason “Jet” Terry had a MVP-like finals, he was no match for Flash who cemented his position as one of the NBA’s elite players. At times Wade played like he was on another level.

Besides his excellent play, Wade seems like he’s a humble player and consistently talks up his teammates. For instance, prior to Shaq coming to Miami, Wade had already led the Heat to an impressive playoff run and established himself as the team leader. He didn’t get all jealous about another big name player coming to his team; he embraced Shaq and actually admitted that he could learn a thing or two from Shaq who already had three NBA Championships. Two years later, Wade’s warm embrace of Shaq as paid off as both men can share the glory of being NBA Champions.

Shaq should also get some credit for checking his ego, he entered Miami proclaiming that the Heat was Wade’s team and he was there to help Wade win a championship. Ultimately, his ego check may give him the last laugh last over Kobe Bryant, since he’s proven he can win without Kobe, while Kobe still searches to find his way back to the NBA Finals. I guess you never miss a good thing until it’s gone. Of all the active NBA players, Shaq has the second most NBA Championships with four, interestingly enough; San Antonio’s Robert Horry has six.

* Dallas is my relocated hometown because my family moved there several years ago. Since I didn't grow up there, I lack strong ties to Dallas / Texas teams. My allegiance is to Atlanta / Georgia teams. Go Braves, Bulldogs, Falcons, Force, and Hawks!