On the eve of the Philadelphia 76ers’ media day, Caleb Martin shared an emotional farewell to his former team, the Miami Heat. The former Heat forward, who thrived under coach Erik Spoelstra, recently signed a four-year, $32 million contract with the Sixers. He took to Instagram on Sunday to explain the delay in his goodbye, noting that he wasn’t quite ready to part ways.
“Sorry for the delay, 305. It took me a bit longer to post this because I wasn’t ready to say goodbye just yet,” Martin wrote. “Miami has changed my life in more ways than I could have imagined. It put me in a position to improve my life, my family’s life, and my career. Just yesterday, I felt like I was on a two-way contract trying to make a name for myself again. The fans, my teammates, coaches, and the city welcomed me with open arms, and I always tried to give my all on the court.”
There were rumors that Martin declined a more lucrative five-year, $65 million extension from the Heat in hopes of securing a better deal in free agency. The 29-year-old expressed that he didn’t expect his time in Miami to end this way.
“This is definitely not how I envisioned things wrapping up, but the memories and love I’ve gained for this city and organization over the past three years are irreplaceable,” he wrote. “305 will always feel like a second home and will hold a special place in my heart. Thank you, Heat Nation!”
Now, Martin is set to take on a key role as the starting power forward alongside stars like Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George. The 76ers are considered strong contenders for the Eastern Conference title, alongside the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks.
“With all that said, I’m grateful and excited to begin this new chapter as a PHILADELPHIA 76er! Let’s get to work!” Martin concluded.
After three memorable years with the Heat, the Miami fanbase wishes him all the best as he embarks on this new phase of his career.
