Just after 11 p.m. on Wednesday, after the news of his move to the Chicago Bulls became public, NBA superstar Dwyane Wade released an open letter to the city of Miami, his home for his entire professional life.
In the letter, which was released to the Associated Press, Wade says that it was "an extremely emotional and tough decision" to leave the Miami Heat.
"I started my NBA career with the Miami Heat in 2003 and it has been an honor to have played with them and help build a winning franchise with three NBA championships," he writes. "I look back with pride and amazement at all we have accomplished together."
He singles out the fans for special praise, nodding to the #HEATNATION that has supported him from the beginning. But the letter closes by acknowledging that, as an Illinois native, Wade has always had a special place in his heart for the Bulls.
"Watching the Bulls growing up inspired me at an early age to pursue my dream of becoming a basketball player," he continues. "I have never forgotten where I came from and I am thankful to have an opportunity to play for the team that first fueled my love of the game. Many of my family members still live in Chicago and I am excited to return home to a city very close to my heart."
You can read the letter in its entirety below.
Dear Miami,
