In a recent revelation that has intrigued basketball fans, Gordon Hayward shared that he was very close to signing with the Miami Heat in 2017. This surprising disclosure, highlighted in a tweet by @TheDunkCentral, has sparked discussions about what could have been for both Hayward and the Heat.
The conversation began with a tweet from @TheDunkCentral, stating,
“Gordon Hayward reveals that he was set on signing with Miami in 2017. ‘I remember vividly telling my agent after each meeting, like I started with Miami, and I’m like, ‘I want to go to Miami……’”
Gordon Hayward reveals that he was set on signing with Miami in 2017
“I remember vividly telling my agent after each meeting, like I started with Miami, and I’m like, ‘I want to go to Miami. We don’t even need to do the other meetings.’ Miami is the place I want to be, and he… pic.twitter.com/4RZGzbF3nI
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) August 8, 2024
This tweet has reignited interest in Hayward’s free agency decision and its implications.
Gordon Hayward’s Free Agency Journey
In the summer of 2017, Gordon Hayward was one of the most sought-after free agents in the NBA. After a successful stint with the Utah Jazz, he had several teams vying for his signature. Hayward’s journey included meetings with the Miami Heat, Boston Celtics, and Utah Jazz. Despite his initial inclination towards Miami, he ultimately chose to sign with the Boston Celtics.
Hayward recounted his decision-making process, saying, “I basically visited three teams. I started with Miami, then did Boston, then finished with Utah, meeting with all those teams. I remember vividly telling my agent after each meeting, like I started with Miami, and I’m like, ‘I want to go to Miami. We don’t even need to do the other meetings.’ Miami is the place I want to be, and he kind of was like, ‘Well, we got to hear everyone out.’”
Hayward’s interest in Miami was driven by several factors. He admired the Heat’s first-class organization, the coaching prowess of Erik Spoelstra, and the legendary status of Pat Riley. Additionally, personal factors played a role, as Hayward’s brother-in-law lived in Miami, and his wife was excited about the prospect of living near the beach.
