Udonis Haslem Staying in Miami, No Place Like Home

Miami Heat Forward Udonis Haslem will be returning this season after signing a five year deal today, first reported by Ira Winderman of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.

Haslem passed up deals from other teams that were much more lucrative than that of the Heat's, but continuing with the Heat's current theme of "sacrifice", Haslem made his decision for other reasons than money.

When asked on his decision to stay, Haslem told the Sun-Sentinel, "It was a combination of having a great opportunity to win, which is why we play this game, an opportunity to stay close with my family, and an opportunity to be part of something special."

"I would be changing my DNA if I was leaving just for money."

Haslem, born and raised in Miami, attended high school locally and later lead the Florida Gators to the Final Four in 2001, alongside future teammate, forward Mike Miller. He has spent his entire professional career playing at home for the Miami Heat.

Haslem said the Heat's landing of Mike Miller was a big reason why he decided to ultimately stay and play for his hometown team.

"That's my boy from day one. Before the NBA, that's my college roommate. He's like Dwyane is to me, just a different color. That's just like my brother."

Knowing he will be All-Star Chris Bosh's back up, Haslem said, "I have no problem coming off the bench behind a guy like that."

After the Heat's signings of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh, skepticism arose as to whether or not Pat Riley could muster up some more magic to fill the rest of the roster with the adequate talent needed.  Now, it appears as if that won't be an issue at all with the signing of Haslem and the immanent obtaining of Miller.

Riley and the Heat will most likely try to cap off the team with a big man or two, with some targets being Zydrunas Ilgauskas, Jamal Magloire, and Joel Anthony.