Dwyane Wade attended every game of the US national team at the Olympic Games in Paris. However, he wasn’t there as a supporter. The Hall of Famer had his first experience as a co-commentator for NBC and by all accounts did a great job.
Wade’s stellar performance was no surprise considering how excited he was about the opportunity. In an episode of The Why podcast filmed before the Paris Olympics, he spoke about how excited he was to be able to commentate. He said:
“I love basketball, so of course I talk about it a lot. But there’s a lot going on in this environment, in this atmosphere. So I’m looking forward to the challenge of contributing a little bit and bringing my perspective to the game… People respect it when a former player is really critical of what they see, because they’re not you.”
The three-time NBA champion explained what he would do differently than other co-commentators to stand out. He said:
“I’m excited to … just add a little color to what coaches are doing, what they’re thinking, what referees are thinking, doing, why they’re calling the game that way, whatever the case may be. Just to give the untrained eye, the basketball fan, a little more information.”
Wade did exactly what he said he would do. His insight, analysis, laid-back demeanor and a host of excellent one-liners earned him universal praise from fans, analysts and former players. His chemistry with partner Noah Eagle was also great.
Fans showered the 27-year-old live commentator with praise and in an interview with TodayThe Heat icon also paid tribute to his colleague. He said:
“I have a great partner by my side, Noah Eagle. Shout out to Noah and the entire team at NBC.”
Wade and Eagle’s excellent work in Paris could land the duo a permanent job at NBC, and when the NBA returns to the network’s airwaves in 2025, they could become its primary commentary team.
The Hall of Famer has previously appeared on television as an analyst for TNT, and given how much he enjoyed his job as a co-commentator at the Olympics, it would be no surprise if he decided to take the job full-time.
