The Miami Heat have unveiled a replacement face on the Dwyane Wade statue outside Kaseya Center following years of public jokes and criticism about the original sculpture's likeness. The updated statue was revealed on October 31, 2026, addressing longstanding concerns that the original artwork did not adequately resemble the franchise's greatest player.
Wade, a three-time NBA champion and 13-time All-Star who spent 16 seasons with the Heat, had his statue originally dedicated in 2024. Social media users and fans frequently mocked the sculpture's facial features, prompting the organization to commission a new version.
The ceremony marked a rare instance of a professional sports team revising a permanent tribute in response to public feedback. The Heat organization has not disclosed the artist responsible for the new facial sculpture.
