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Dwyane Wade Distances Himself From LeBron James' Failed Heat Promise

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kevin Borba | Last updated May 23, 2025 3:29 PM ET

In one of the more league-shifting moves in NBA history, LeBron James opted to leave the Cleveland Cavaliers for the Miami Heat in 2010.

In a time when social media wasn't as prevalent, and blockbuster moves weren't solely relayed via tweets, James announced his move in an interview known as "The Decision."

He formed a superteam with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh, and during the trio's introductory press conference on July 10, 2010, infamously promised they'd win seven titles.

"Not two, not three, not four, not five, not six, not seven," James said regarding how many titles they'd win. "Aye and when I say that...When I say that I really believe it."

The Heat ended up winning two titles in four straight appearances, falling short of their goal. While James' message instilled confidence in the fan base, Wade made it clear on a recent episode of "Pardon My Take," he didn't love the promise.

When one of the hosts joked with Wade, saying, "You guys were serious," Wade made it quite clear what he thought of the statement.

"It wasn't no you guys," Wade quipped. "It was one person who said that...Everybody wasn't saying that. It was one person who said 'not three, not four, not five.'"

When asked about what was going through his head when James said that, and he did not hold back.

"He trippin," Wade said. I was like slow down bro."

Wade later added that James' sentiment is something that should have only been said in the locker room, not to the public. He also added that regardless of what James said and how talented of a roster they had, they knew it'd be difficult to just "run the table."

At the end of the day, the Heat's big three was a success, but it appears they may have taken those comments back if possible.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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