Former Miami Heat star Dwyane Wade's recent comments about his place in NBA history have sparked a strong reaction, particularly from Stephen A. Smith.
During a discussion on "The Why with Dwyane Wade" podcast, the three-time NBA Champion used a hotel analogy to describe the hierarchy of NBA greatness. He suggested that while legends like Michael Jordan and Bill Russell occupy the top floor (the 30th floor), he himself is on the 25th floor.
This self-assessment, particularly regarding his "sacrifice" in helping others, led to a strong response from the ESPN analyst, who felt Wade was undervaluing his own contributions to the game.
Smith's statement was shared by ClutchPoints on X, challenging Wade's view of his legacy, particularly his assertion that he didn't belong at the very top of the NBA hierarchy.
Smith pointed to Wade's willingness to sacrifice for the good of the team, especially his role in helping Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James elevate his game and win championships.
"I'm gonna say this on national television to D-Wade, my brother, I'm getting sick and tired of you diminishing who the hell you are," Smith said.
"You ain't no 25th floor, you're the 30th floor. That's a three-time champion we're talking about with Dwyane Wade. That's a guy that recruited LeBron James. That's a guy that sacrificed a lot of his game to facilitate LeBron James being who he is."
Smith emphasized Wade's key role in James' success, noting that Wade's sacrifices, particularly in adjusting his style of play to help James flourish, were crucial to their joint achievements.
"His selflessness, his leadership, his commitment to winning, his willingness to sacrifice-it all contributed to winning," he continued.
"I'm getting sick and tired of you diminishing who the hell you are. You ain't no 25th floor, you're the 30th floor... That's a guy that recruited LeBron James. ... D-Wade is a champion. Period."
Stephen A. Smith to Dwyane Wade's recent comments.pic.twitter.com/DHbWYz1K0yhttps://t.co/HNAjlYNhBH
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) April 1, 2025
Wade's comments on his ranking were rooted in his belief that greatness in basketball is often subjective and debated without clear answers.
Through his hotel analogy, he explained that while he recognizes his achievements, he does not see himself at the absolute top of the sport. Wade's perspective, shaped by his own "sacrifice" and leadership, remains humble.
"The hotel has 30 floors, okay? We're talking about an access key," Wade said. "When I look at the game, I look at who has an access key to get to the 30th floor… I may be on floor 25, but I ain't at floor 30."
Wade was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2023. His career includes three NBA championships, an NBA Finals MVP, 13 All-Star selections, a scoring title and an Olympic gold medal.
Smith's passionate defense highlights just how respected Wade is in the basketball world, even if he remains modest about his place in NBA history.
Related: Dwyane Wade Used Three Words to Describe Oscars Night With Gabrielle Union
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This story was originally published April 1, 2025 at 7:45 PM.