Image of Udonis Haslem

Udonis Haslem announced his retirement this past July after 20 years with the Miami Heat. Haslem posted a heartfelt message on Instagram expressing how lucky he was to be able to leave the Heat with no regrets.

"I'm leaving the Heat with no regrets," Haslem wrote." I've given everything I have. I've done everything I could for this city and this team. I'm grateful for the opportunity to wear a Heat jersey for the past 20 years."

Haslem's retirement was met with strong support from fans and players alike. Many took to social media to share memories of Haslem and thank him for his contributions to the game.

"UD was one of the greatest players to ever play for the Heat," Dwyane Wade tweeted." He's also one of the best people I know. I'm so grateful for his friendship and leadership."

"UD is a Heat legend," LeBron James wrote on Instagram." He helped build the culture of the team today. I'm proud to have him as a teammate."

Photo of Udonis Haslem in a suit

But Haslem's time with the Heat doesn't seem to be over. This week, the Heat announced the hiring of Haslem as vice president of basketball development.

In his new role, Haslem will serve as a resource for the coaching staff, mentor Heat and Skyforce players, and represent the Heat at community and business events.

With 20 years of league experience, Haslam is well suited for the role. He is the Heat's all-time leader in offensive rebounds (1,615), defensive rebounds (4,176) and total rebounds (5,791). He was also a member of the Heat's 2006, 2012 and 2013 championship teams.

Haslem also played in 879 regular season games, won seven Eastern Conference championships and averaged 7.5 points, 6.6 rebounds and 0.8 assists per game.

Heat chairman Pat Riley said in a statement that Haslem has been a big part of the team's success over the past 20 years.

"UD was born and raised in Miami and has been an integral part of the Heat's success for 20 years," Riley said." It's fantastic that he has chosen to continue his incredible legacy in Miami, where he belongs.

Head coach Erik Spoelstra was equally enthusiastic about Haslem's return, saying the former player essentially embodies the Heat's culture.

"If you want to explain our culture, you just have to show the UD scene," Spoelstra said, "not just in games, but if you can find footage of him on the practice court or teaching footage with no one else on the court." The gym, but someone needs to do extra training.

"I like what he does in the gym and I like what he does in the locker room. I like whatever role he plays," he added.

Haslem's return to the Heat as a supervisor caps off a remarkable career. He is a Heat legend and his impact on the team will be evident for years to come.