By DeAndré Phillips
Some might think helping Team USA win the gold medal at the Beijing Games was the conclusion of Flash’s amazing summer. But winning gold means Flash is only getting started.
If you don’t believe me, just ask Dwyane Wade.
Wade has been in a media whirlwind since returning from the Olympics. Radio and TV appearances, commercial and photo shoots, and ceremonies and celebrations have kept the sixth-year pro living in Olympic glory.
Here’s a look at Wade’s late-summer schedule:
Monday, August 25
Wade Arrives Back In Miami
The media whirlwind began as soon as he stepped back on American soil. Following his 23-hour trip from Beijing to Miami, Wade spent 30 minutes talking to Miami media.
Thursday, August 28
Wade Honored At AmericanAirlines Arena
Three days later, Wade was honored at the AmericanAirlines Arena with a banner unveiling and was awarded the Key to Miami-Dade County.
Friday, August 29
Wade Throws First Pitch
The next day, he appeared at Dolphin Stadium where he threw out the ceremonial first pitch at the Mets-Marlins game.
Thursday, September 4
Wade Hosts Benefit Dinner and Fashion Show
Next, it was off to Chi-Town as Wade hosted a benefit dinner and fashion show as part of D-Wade’s Young, Fly and Flashy Weekend.
Friday, September 5
Wade Participates in “Game With Fame” Event
Fans had a chance to chat with the four-time All-Star about the upcoming NBA season and winning a gold medal. Fans also got a chance to play against Wade in “Guitar Hero” on Xbox Live.
Wade Hosts Charity Bowling Event
After trying his luck on the sticks, Wade joined Olympic teammate Chris Paul to host a charity bowling event as part of D-Wade’s Young, Fly and Flashy Weekend.
Saturday, September 6
Wade Hosts Charity Skating Event
Wade hosts “Get Your Roll On” roller skating event as part of D-Wade’s Young, Fly and Flashy Weekend.
Monday, September 8
Wade Appears on Oprah
Wade joined an array of Olympic gold medalists on “The Oprah Winfrey Show.” Wade admits that being on the hit talk show is the highlight of his summer.
Tuesday, September 9
ESPN the Magazine Interview
Wade took time away from his busy schedule to talk hoops with the “World Wide Leader In Sports.”
Wade Shoots Commercial
Wade went back to his alma mater, Richards High School in Chicago, to shoot a commercial for Converse. He shortened the school day for a grateful student body that packed the gym for the two-hour shoot.
Here’s what’s on tap for Wade:
Wednesday, September 10
Shooting ESPN commercial for upcoming season
Photo shoot and interview with “l’Equipe,” one of the largest France weekly sports publications.
Taping of the “Conan O’Brien show” (will air on Friday, Sept 19th)
Thursday, September 18
Appearing on “Live with Regis & Kelly”
Taping of Center Stage on the YES Network
Appearance at the NBA Store with Pepperidge Farm
Co-hosting BET’s “106 & Park”
Friday, September 19
Photo Shoot and interview for Men’s Health Magazine
Converse commercial shoot
Attending Alonzo Mourning’s pre-book release event in New Jersey
Monday, September 22 – Wednesday, September 24
Shooting T-Mobile commercials in Miami
Friday, September 26
Media day
Saturday, September 27
HEAT Camp opens
Even with his hectic schedule, Wade won’t forget that basketball is still his Fave 5.