ESPN’s Nick Friedell posted a quote in which Wade gives his full support for LeBron James ripping Charles Barkley. Wade said:
Thank God [James] finally said something. LeBron, a lot of guys take a lot of shots at him, for whatever reason. He’s always been [a focal point like], all of the great players in the game. He just has kept his mouth closed, continued to focus on what he need to. But it’s about time he said something. Guys ride him, especially ex-players. When you got a history, when you can go and google your history, you need to be a little careful with what you say. Sometimes when guys get on a microphone in front of their face they just talk and talk and talk and forget about their history. We all make that mistake, but especially that guy on TV. He acts like he just walked on water. I like the fact that Bron called him out and told him about it hisself a little bit. Humble yourself. LeBron is who he is. We all have flaws, but when your flaws are a little bit more then you should shut up. So I’m glad LJ finally said something and stood up for himself from that standpoint He said there’s a new sheriff in town so I’m excited to see what’s next.
Wade and Bron are close, like brothers. He knows the “ghosts” Bron is chasing. Bron is playing for legacy right now. He wants to go down as the greatest to ever play the game and he knows time is of the essence and he has to win more rings. Any slight that comes his way, he is going to react. Barkley has been talking slick about this generations stars for quite some time now. Most guys shrug it off and keep moving. But again, Bron is playing for something different and he had to let Chuck have it. Look back at Bron’s comments, he mentioned not letting Barkley “disrespect his legacy.” This is a man that is going for greatness and like those before him he will not let anything or anyone stand in his way.
The interesting thing about this generation is their willingness to support one another. It’s not that Wade isn’t competitive with Bron or anyone else but there is a kinship and a bond. The banana boat crew especially are willing to really go to bat for one another.