Today, it was reported that Dwyane Wade purchased a stake of the Utah Jazz. As a result, he plans to take on an active role as a part of the organization and region.
Turnover In Utah
After the 2019 season, Dwayne Wade retired from the NBA and signed a lucrative media deal with TNT. Also, Wade’s purchase contributes to several changes that have occurred in Utah this season. Last October, long-term owner Gail Miller sold the team to the founder of Qualtrics, Ryan Smith. Though Wade comes in as an outsider to the Utah market, he has a plethora of experiences in the NBA to offer the organization.
Dwyane Wade, Utah Legend?
Moreover, Many fans have been surprised to see that Wade purchased a portion of the Jazz and not his long-time team, the Miami Heat. For instance, some have taken to Twitter to display their pain.
No Slow Jazz
Despite fan concerns, Wade wants to take an influential and important role with the Jazz.
“This goes way beyond the dream I had to just play basketball in the NBA,” Wade told ESPN.
Furthermore, Wade notes the roles that Shaq, Grant Hill, and Michael Jordan have had with their respective organizations. Because of their experiences, Wade believes that he can make an immediate impact with the Jazz.
A Social Justice Move?
To continue, Dwyane might have implications for more than basketball. In the past, The Utah Jazz has a bad reputation for social justice issues. When Ryan Smith purchased the team, he came out in support of the Jazz being a microphone against the issues of systemic injustice.
�There�s nothing that is as bad of an experience as systemic racism.� �It�s not that we�re just going to be anti-racist, we�re going to be actively anti-racist as an organization. That means we�re going to take our time and our energy and we�re going to use this platform to help make our communities more equitable. This is going to be one of the things we do and it should have been done a hell of a long time ago I don�t know why we�re in this spot.”
Ryan Smith
Furthermore, Wade’s comments about forming a partnership with Ryan Smith seem to have similar parallels.
“Unfortunately, people in my community don’t get this opportunity, and I do not take it lightly to have this opportunity. To make real change, this is where you have to be — at the top — and Ryan knows that. I’m thankful for him, and I know too that I bring a lot to this partnership outside of just my basketball knowledge and skills.”
Dwayne Wade
Dwyane Wade Purchased At The Right Time
At last, Dwyane Wade purchased this stake in the Jazz at an exciting time for the organization. Above all, the Jazz is having an awesome season, leading the Western Conference as the 1st seed. Many have noted the supporting cast being critical to the Jazz’ performance this season. Finally, Wade’s expertise and NBA experience make the Jazz interesting to follow this season and for seasons to come.
