Miami Heat's Dwyane Wade agrees deal with Chicago Bulls

Updated 07/07/2016 at 09:49 GMT

Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade is reported to have agreed a two-year $47 million contract with the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday despite most assuming he would end his career in Florida.

Wade in action

Image credit: Reuters

Dwyane Wade, a Miami Heat icon most expected would see out his career in Florida, agreed a deal on Wednesday to join the Chicago Bulls on a two-year $47 million contract.

In an open letter to the city of Miami, Wade explained his decision to leave. It can be read in its entirety below:

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Dear Miami,

This has been an extremely emotional and tough decision to come to. After 13 years, I have decided to embark on a new journey with the Chicago Bulls. This was not an easy decision, but I feel I have made the right choice for myself and my family.

I started my NBA career with the Miami Heat in 2003 and it has been an honor to have played with them and help build a winning franchise with three NBA championships. I look back with pride and amazement at all we have accomplished together. I want to express my gratitude to the Arison family, Pat Riley, Coach Erik Spoelstra, the coaching staff, and the entire Miami Heat organization.

From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank the Miami community and especially #HEATNATION for all of their love and support over the years. It has been truly incredible. I am deeply moved and appreciative of the positive messages from my fans expressing that they want what's best for me and I know they will support my decision. The memories including championship parades and five conference titles are incredible moments we have shared that will always remain close to my heart as I begin the next chapter of my life.

Growing up in Robbins, Ill., I never dreamed that an NBA career could have even been possible and that one day I would wear a Chicago Bulls jersey. Watching the Bulls growing up inspired me at an early age to pursue my dream of becoming a basketball player. My most treasured memories were watching my dad play basketball on the courts of Fermi Elementary School and developing my game at the Blue Island Recreation Center. I have never forgotten where I came from and I am thankful to have an opportunity to play for the team that first fueled my love of the game. Many of my family members still live in Chicago and I am excited to return home to a city very close to my heart.

I look forward to returning to my roots and to what lies ahead.

Much Love and Respect,

D. Wade

The three-time NBA champion is likely to end his career at the Bulls despite interest from the Denver Nuggets.

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