From humble beginnings to building one of the biggest business empires, Hall of Famer Dwyane Wade has come a long way. He dedicated his entire youth to making a name for himself in the NBA. After that, he moved mountains to create an impressive business portfolio and, make generous contributions to society. As he grew up, he found that inspiration in the example set by his father, Dwyane Wade Sr.

In his latest interview with SXSW, the Flash reflected on his past and recalled one fear that has consistently fueled his competitive drive. “it’s a fear you carry when you grow up a certain way. You grow up poor, it’s a fear of being back there for your family, like I. You know, I’m responsible for my family, my mom, my dad. I’m responsible, big responsibility…But yes I definitely learned. I watched my dad.”

He added, “I used to watch my dad get up, no matter what night my dad had…he got up every morning at 5 a.m. He went to work. I had to drive him to work. When I was 12 years old. I was driving my dad to the train station, trying not to get caught by the police. On the way back home, because that’s just how you got to do it. I was next in line, and so I learned a lot by watching my dad in his own way.”

His struggles in the past and his father’s role in his life have shaped Wade into the man he is now. He has never stopped putting in the effort and hard work. Fast forward to the present, he owns shares in the WNBA team Chicago Sky and has numerous partnership deals with big brands, and more. In the interview, Wade also shared that he was the first in his family to accomplish such an impressive feat. While the 3x champion always gives credit to his family and wife for their endless support, Wade’s father’s contribution to his life always remains special to him.

Dwyane Wade’s father is his biggest inspiration

Early in his basketball journey, Wade faced numerous obstacles. The Miami Heat star once revealed that he nearly couldn’t participate in the AAU basketball championship because of financial constraints. Now, the 13x NBA All-Star is recognized as one of the greatest basketball players. 

Besides being a successful businessman, he is also a devoted father to his children. He has also spoken about the significant influence of his father, who took custody of him when he was nine years old. Throughout his childhood, Wade saw his mother Jolinda Wade struggle with her addiction issues. During that time, his father stepped up and took his responsibility.

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Speaking about his father and troubled childhood, an emotional Wade once detailed, “Growing up, you know, I watched a man be a man. He (Dwyane Wade Sr.) took custody of me at nine years old when my mom was going through her troubles and really stepped in as a man and so I gave a lot of credit to my father for a lot of the ways I think about, you know, how to be a leader and how to be a parent.”

Wade has always looked up to his connection with his father. He even attributed his own parenting abilities to his father, who set an example for him. Wade is a true champion and continues to inspire people.

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