Basketball Hall of Famer Dwyane Wade reveals Florida Democrats DID approach him about running for senate against incumbent Rick Scott, but cautions ‘it’s just conversation’

Could Basketball Hall of Famer Dwyane Wade impact the upcoming political cycle?

The Miami Heat legend was the subject of reports in May, claiming Florida’s Democratic party was trying to lure him into a 2024 senate campaign against Republican incumbent – and former state governor – Rick Scott.

Now Wade has confirmed those reports, telling The New York Times ahead of his recent Hall of Fame induction that he was approached about a potential senate campaign.

‘I mean, it’s just conversation,’ Wade told the Times’ Sopan Deb. ‘Hey, you would be good for,’ ‘Hey, we can see you in,’ ‘We would love to have you in.’

‘It’s things that I’m passionate about that I will speak out on and speak up for. And so I don’t play the politician games. I don’t know a lot about it… But I also understand that I have a role as an American citizen and as a known person to be able to highlight and speak on things that other people may not be able to because they don’t have the opportunity to do this.’

Could Basketball Hall of Famer Dwyane Wade impact the upcoming political cycle?

Wade wasn’t known for being particularly political as a player, but has become an outspoken advocate for trans rights while raising his trans daughter, Zaya.

But despite his prominent role as a celebrity father in the fight for trans rights, Wade decided against speaking out against the Orlando Magic’s recent decision to donate $50,000 to Governor Ron DeSantis’ super PAC. DeSantis has been accused of enacting anti-LGBTQ+ policies, such as the so-called ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill which limits what teachers can say about sexuality to students.

‘I have so many things that I’m focused on and there’s so many, so many battles to fight, in a sense,’ Wade said. ‘That’s one that I’m not choosing to fight, with so many other things where my voice is needed.

‘People are going to do what people want to do. And there’s nothing that you’re going to be able to do to stop them, per se. And so I’m trying to help where the need is and where I can.’

Zaya Wade and father Dwyane Wade at the ‘Cheaper By The Dozen’ premiere in 2022

If he does have a successful campaign, Wade would not be the first NBA superstar to become a US Senator.

New York Knicks legend Bill Bradley previously served his native New Jersey in the US Senate before a failed presidential run in 2000.

Wade’s ultimately political goals, if any, remain unclear, but as a highly recognized superstar in liberal Miami, the Democratic Party might see him as a way to stem the Republicans’ momentum within the state. 

State party spokespeople did not immediately respond to DailyMail.com’s request for comment.