"Most average jersey retirement of all-time" - Miami Heat putting Udonis Haslem's jersey in rafters has NBA fans buzzing

On Friday afternoon, news emerged that Udonis Haslem was getting his jersey retired by the Miami Heat. That did not receive the reception some might have hoped for, as NBA fans quickly began clowning the decision.

According to reports, Haslem will have his jersey retired on Jan. 19. The Miami Heat are slated to face off against Trae Young and the Atlanta Hawks that night. Fans mocked the decision to retire Haslem's jersey, saying that he's one of the most average players to have his number put in the rafters.

One fan said:

"Most average jersey retirement of all-time. But well deserved at the same time"

Here are some of the top reactions on X:

Udonis Haslem began his journey with the Heat in 2003 after going undrafted. He secured a roster spot for himself that he would hold on to for two decades.

During his 20 years with the franchise, Haslem got to be a part of three championship teams and play alongside some all-time greats, the most notable being LeBron James and Dwyane Wade.

The jersey retirement comes less than one year after Haslem decided to walk away. He appeared in seven games last season for the Heat and dropped 24 points in the regular season finale.

Haslem also made history last season as the oldest player to play in the NBA Finals. Miami subbed him in for 29 seconds in Game 3 against the Denver Nuggets.

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Should Udonis Haslem have his jersey retired by the Miami Heat?

Even though Udonis Haslem was an average player, many will argue that he's still worthy of having his jersey retired. In an era where players are constantly on the move, organizations should pay homage to those who were loyal to them, especially for this long a period.

In terms of the Miami Heat organization, Haslem is a legend. He played in nearly 900 games during his 20-year run and was part of the last three Heat teams to win it all.

The biggest thing the Heat are known for is their rock-solid culutre. It only stayed as strong as it did because of people like Haslem. Even when his playing time was down to nothing, he was still having an impact behind the scenes.

Without him instilling Heat culture into the current team, they might not have had the success they've had over the past four years.

Throughout his time with the Heat, many have praised Udonis Haslem for his contribution to the franchise. Given how long he stuck around, it makes sense that the organization is honoring him in this fashion.