Dwyane Wade Fuels Fire About NBA Draft Lottery Being Rigged
Dwyane Wade has always been a straight shooter, and his recent comments about the NBA Draft Lottery have set the internet on fire. During a conversation on USA TODAY Sports, the Miami Heat legend didn't outright accuse the league of rigging the lottery, but his words did enough to spark fresh debates.
The topic came up when Wade was asked about the Dallas Mavericks landing the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, a surprise given their slim 1.8% odds.
Former Marquette Golden Eagles player and Miami Heat legend Dwyane Wade smiles timeout during the first half of the game against the Providence Friars at Fiserv Forum.Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
Dwyane Wade on NBA Draft Controversy
"It's a business," the Heat legend said when asked if the draft was rigged, instantly fueling fan speculation. He clarified he wasn't accusing anyone but emphasized that professional sports prioritize financial interests. Wade then shared a 2008 story when he expected Miami to get the top pick but landed No. 2, while Chicago, with low odds, secured No. 1 and drafted Derrick Rose.
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His comments fueled the fire, hinting at moments like LeBron going to the Cleveland Cavaliers. "Maybe that's a coincidence," Wade remarked.
NBA Fans React to Wade's Comments
NBA fans didn't hold back their thoughts. One fan commented, '2006 was rigged. It's a business…' hinting at past NBA controversies. Another echoed, 'D-Wade acting like the 2006 finals weren't rigged,' referring to the Miami Heat's title win over the Dallas Mavericks that year.
Some fans saw Wade's comments as a direct confession. 'Literally just said 'it's rigged',' one user noted, while another added, 'In other words, it is rigged.' The debate only grew more intense with comments like, 'Having a lottery for a draft is just dirty… the worst team should get the first pick.'
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One fan pointed out the broader picture, asking, 'So LeBron winning in Cleveland as a storyline was rigged?' This sparked even more heated exchanges, showing how Wade's comments had reignited old conspiracy theories about the NBA's biggest moments.
Wade's comments were careful, but the implications were anything but subtle. He didn't outright accuse the NBA of manipulating the draft, but his words were enough to keep the debate alive. The idea that the draft is "a business" is hardly new, but hearing it from a former NBA superstar and current team co-owner gives it more weight.
Fans continue to debate, and conspiracy theories will always have their place in sports. But for now, Wade has given everyone something to talk about.
Related: Dwyane Wade Doesn't Deny NBA Draft Lottery Is Rigged
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