Players to spend their entire careers with the same team, by most seasons:
- Dirk Nowitzki (21 with Mavericks)
- Kobe Bryant (20 with Lakers)
- Tim Duncan (19 with Spurs)
- John Stockton (19 with Jazz)
- Reggie Miller (18 with Pacers)
- Udonis Haslem (16 with Heat)
- Manu Ginobili (16 with Spurs)
- John Havlicek (16 with Celtics)
- David Robinson (14 with Spurs)
- Joe Dumars (14 with Pistons)
- Jerry West (14 with Lakers)
That’s 10 Hall of Famers/future Hall of Famers.
And Udonis Haslem.
Haslem isn’t the typical star who sticks with a team for that long. But Haslem – a Miami native who initially signed as an undrafted free agent – has endeared himself to the Heat with toughness and grittiness. He has won three championships in Miami, playing the enduring sidekick to Dwyane Wade. Haslem has proven his value to the Heat’s culture.
That’s why they’ll bring him back for a 17th season.
Haslem said during the season he’d retire with Wade then had a change of heart.
The 39-year-old Haslem has barely played the last few seasons. But he’ll provide veteran mentorship and a steady example.
He’ll get a $2,564,753 salary and continue a job he clearly enjoys. Why rush retirement when that’s available?
The Heat could have used that roster spot on a young player with more upside. But this is a return everyone in Miami will feel good about.
