ABC News (NEW YORK) — Dwyane Wade was the guest host on Live with Kelly on Thursday and the basketball icon began the show by addressing his departure from the Miami Heat after 13 years and three championships.
Host Kelly Ripa joked at the outset, “So, what’s up … Anything exciting?”
“Last night was a long night for me,” Wade said. “It’s still surreal, I’m still numb. This decision I had to make … I’ve been in Miami for 13 years, 13 incredible years … You get a week to decide what you’re gonna do.”
Wade said over the past week he’s lost 5 to 10 pounds and has gotten no sleep.
“It’s so stressful,” he added. “I just want to thank all my fans, we call it ‘Heat Nation.’ The way they embraced me … This little shy kid from Chicago… We did some special things together.”
The duo joked about Wade now needing to get winter clothes for the harsh Chicago winters, but Wade had something poignant to say: “I’m excited to go back to the place I’ve always envisioned playing basketball. I’ve always envisioned myself like in the backyard [playing there]. I get the opportunity to live that dream out.”
Copyright © 2016, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.
Heat owner Micky Arison:
Thank you @DwyaneWade for a great 13 yrs! You’ve had a tremendous impact on our community and our organization. We wish you all the best.
— Micky Arison (@MickyArison) July 7, 2016
Chris Paul:
CONGRATS MY BROTHER!!!! #WellDeserved pic.twitter.com/iHDzSSPyXv
— Chris Paul (@CP3) July 7, 2016
