Kaylah Walton
Dwyane Wade‘s iconic “This is my house” moment has been captured forever in Miami Heat lore. In October 2024, the franchise debuted an impressive 8-foot bronze statue outside the Kaseya Center, honoring his remarkable game-winning shot against the Chicago Bulls back in 2009. For fans in Miami, this recognition was well earned. However, reactions were mixed.
Right away, the statue sparked significant discussion among fans and NBA figures. While many celebrated the tribute, others criticized its design. Notably, Charles Barkley and Bill Simmons voiced their thoughts, with Barkley likening the statue’s appearance to Jim Carrey’s quirky character Fire Marshall Bill. Social media flared up with memes, transforming what should have been a celebratory moment into a heated debate.
When Wade appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, it was inevitable that the topic would arise. Fallon, known for his playful banter, mentioned the backlash, eager to see if Wade had been following the reactions online. The audience held their breath, waiting to see how he would react. Would he defend himself, laugh, or shrug it off?
Wade, fully aware of the situation, delivered a stunning reply that left the audience in awe: “I only listen to people who have a statue.” The crowd burst into applause, and even Fallon found it hilarious. It was the kind of moment that reaffirmed his legendary status.
Despite the online backlash, Wade remained unfazed. He described the statue as “surreal” and expressed his appreciation to the Heat organization, stating that being honored in such a manner was a dream realized. “I dedicated my life to this game,” he asserted, underscoring that no criticism could diminish the value of what the statue symbolizes.
Whether loved or criticized, Wade is now officially the first Miami Heat athlete to have a statue—and that fact won’t be altered by any internet humor.
