Dwyane Wade credits Erik Spoelstra for mindset change

Even though he hasn’t been in a Miami Heat uniform for two seasons, Dwyane Wade will always be a Heat lifer. And that connection was shown once again Wade’s interview with USA Today’s Jeff Zillgitt on Monday.

He discussed how he had to confront his ego about being a starter for his whole career. And it was some words from his old coach in Miami, Erik Spoelstra that came into his mind as he contemplated how to move forward in his NBA career.

“Coach Spo always said, ‘Can you re-invent yourself?’ ” Wade said. “For me, I tried to re-invent myself. My game hasn’t changed, but I’ve always tried to fit my game within the team and do whatever’s necessary.”

It’s pretty cool to hear about how the influence of Wade’s relationship with Spoelstra has helped Wade as he’s moved along in his career. It’s not uncommon for players to harken back to moments from coaches past, but the fact that Wade and Spoelstra really came up together probably strengthens their relationship.