It's often said that the best partnerships in the NBA don't always start on the best footing. This holds true for iconic duos such as Scottie Pippen and Michael Jordan, Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, and even Dwyane Wade and LeBron James .
In a humorous admission, the 2006 Finals MVP once revealed his first impression of the Akron native, recounting how James' perceived snobbish attitude left a less-than-favorable impression on him, even before they had entered the NBA.
The Flash on his first impression of Bron
En route to the NBA, D-Wade made a significant impact while playing for Marquette University. In his junior year, he averaged 21.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, 2.2 steals, and 1.3 blocks per game, deservingly earning a place in the Consensus All-American First Team.
However, despite his fearless attitude when facing taller defenders, exceptional speed, agility, and basketball acumen, the spotlight leading up to the 2003 NBA Draft was firmly on one player—LeBron Raymone James, who was touted as Michael Jordan's heir.
The lack of attention to other promising talents was frustrating enough. Still, Flash's irritation was heightened when 'The Chosen One' seemingly flaunted his special privileges by disregarding his presence and cutting the queue to enter the weight room. In his interview with Rachel Nichols, the 13-time All-Star hilariously confronted the four-time MVP about his high-headed attitude at the time.
"I was like next to (get in). I've been there for a long time," Wade said . "You could've came in and like, 'Nah, let D-Wade go first. He been here longer.' You just came in like, 'I'm the No. 1 pick. This is my draft. Move out the way.'"
Although D-Wade didn't appreciate that behavior, he acknowledged how that incident set the stage for him to start a conversation with James. Surprisingly, they instantly hit it off, forging a solid both since their rookie year.
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Wade was grateful to have a friend like LeBron
Beyond this amusing confrontation, Wade spoke earnestly about the value of having the legendary forward as a close friend, especially during his lowest point in 2007. That year, Dwyane filed for divorce, leading to a public and contentious battle with his first wife - Siohvaughn Funches. Additionally, amid abuse and cheating allegations, Siohvaughn claimed that the Miami Heat guard had left her and their family destitute.
Contemplating the matter, Wde emphasized the importance of having LeBron by his side during this tumultuous period.
"It definitely was huge for me when I was going through an ugly divorce that I went through," Wade said on having LeBron by his side. "An ugly custody battle with the kids, to know that, 'Hey, deal with what you gotta deal with; We got you on this end.'"
As their camaraderie on the court and brotherhood off the court grew stronger each passing day, it seems reasonable to conclude that not all first impressions are last.
Related: "You can all pack all this up, after tonight you won't need it" - LeBron James' message to United Center employees before 2011 ECF Game 5
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