Here's Why Dwyane Wade Asked Pat Riley To Ax Trade For Allen Iverson

Back in the 2000s, Dwyane Wade had young NBA fans clamoring for a no. 3 Miami Heat jersey when he showcased his athleticism and scoring prowess on the hardcourt. Apparently, he came close to teaming with another flashy superstar in South Beach, but Wade himself voiced his opposition to the trade that would have made this a reality.

Making a guest appearance on Prime’s post-game coverage on Sunday, The Flash told a story about Hall of Famer Allen Iverson and longtime Heat executive Pat Riley.

"Riles said he could trade for AI, and I was like, 'Bet, let's do it. I'm in," Wade recalled.

That conversation took place after the Heat won the 2006 NBA championship, and it’s no surprise that Wade was excited for that deal to be finalized. Like many of his contemporaries, teenage Dwyane had watched Iverson put on a show with his dazzling handles and proficient shot-making since the late 90s.

By 2006, however, AI was clearly on its way out of Philly. A number of frustrating seasons, in addition to clashes with multiple Sixers head coaches, made it highly unlikely that Iverson would be staying with the team for much longer. 

Was it plausible, then, that the Heat would have acquired Iverson that year? According to Wade, he eventually changed his mind and did what he could to prevent this trade from happening.

“He [Riley] said, “We're going to have to trade UD [Udonis Haslem]. I was like, I'm out. That's it, I was out,” Wade shared. “I love AI, but AI wasn't gonna stick up for me, fight for me, take no fines for me. Nah, keep my guy here. AI, I love you, but not over my brother.”

As Wade said these words, Haslem smiled as he sat right next to him on the Prime set. For the entirety of his 20-year NBA career, Haslem had been the backbone of the Heat, providing support and leadership to big names and role players alike. To this day, the friendship between the two Heat icons endures.

If the Iverson trade had indeed been inked, would the Heat be able to win back-to-back titles? There’s no way to answer that question, but Haslem jokingly explained that he gave Miami what Iverson would have brought.

“I had the braids,” Haslem commented. “With the tattoos!”