The artist behind the ‘unrecognizable’ statue of a beloved NBA star has addressed the criticism it received from fans.
On October 27, a statue commemorating Miami Heat icon Dwyane Wade was unveiled outside the Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida.
Despite the intention for the statue to celebrate Wade’s achievements, the response from fans was not as expected.
A video clip went viral showing the unveiling of the 8-foot bronze statue, beginning with the dramatic removal of the coverings concealing it from view.
As the statue was exposed, smoke filled the air while the crowd’s excitement grew, culminating in plumes of fire erupting behind the sculpture.
The presentation was indeed spectacular.
Once the smoke dissipated, the audience saw a statue depicting a figure in a Miami Heat jersey, number three on the back, arms raised, and mouth open in a shout.
This pose is a nod to Wade’s iconic career moment in March 2009 when he made a historic shot in the NBA.
The base of the statue bears the words “This is my house!”—a phrase Wade exclaimed after that legendary shot.
Following the unveiling, social media buzzed with comments on the statue’s likeness.
Many expressed that without Wade’s presence and media coverage, identifying the statue might have been challenging.
“Dwyane Wade’s Heat career -15 seasons -3 championships -All-time leader in points, games, assists, and steals -1 completely unrecognizable statue,” tweeted Barstool Sports.
Another user commented: “Trying to replicate an emotional expression like that is a great idea but should’ve stayed an idea.”
Someone else questioned: “Congrats to Dwade but who is the sculptor?”
Sculptor Omri Amrany, who collaborated with Oscar León, has spoken out about the criticism.
In an interview with WPLG Local 10 News, Amrany stated: “I couldn’t do better than that. I don’t think anybody else can do better than that. It is what it is, and we will love it forever.”
Will Manso, the sports director for the broadcaster, tweeted that both artists are ‘very proud’ of their work and invite fans to visit and view the statue.
During a news conference, Wade expressed his thoughts, as quoted by the Miami Herald: “I’m biased, but I think it’s one of the best statues that’s been created because of what it represents for us and for me.”