TNT makes big splash by hiring NBA icon Wade
Dwyane Wade has signed with TNT and Warner Media in an overarching, multi-million dollar deal that will make him both a basketball commentator and producer as well as having him delve outside of sports into lifestyle and entertainment.
ESPN/ABC and Disney had interest in signing Wade, as well, The Post had previously reported.
TNT has looked to upgrade its NBA presentation this offseason. It eliminated its “Players Only” broadcasts on Tuesdays, while adding analysts Stan Van Gundy and Jimmy Jackson to team with play-by-players Ian Eagle and Brian Anderson on games. It also re-signed Candace Parker and increased Steve Nash’s NBA role.
On the NBA, Wade will join TNT’s “Inside the NBA” crew on its big events, such as the All-Star Game. He will be a regular member of TNT’s Tuesday studio coverage with Shaquille O’Neal and Parker.
Wade will also make studio appearances during Turner and CBS Sports’ combined coverage on the NCAA Final Four. Wade’s No. 3 jersey is retired by Marquette.
Wade, 37, made 13 NBA All-Star teams, won three titles and is a future Hall of Famer, but he wants to go beyond sports in his post-playing career.
As part of the deal, he will be a creative director for special projects with Bleacher Report. His production company, 59th & Prairie Entertainment, will create projects over the deal.
Wade made his debut with Turner on its coverage of the NBA’s opening night Tuesday. The exact terms of his contract are unknown, but Warner Media said it was for multiple years.