You may know of Dwyane Wade as the eight-time All-Star for the Miami Heat- the NBA Champion and the gold medal winning Olympian. But beneath the significant athletic accomplishments exists a family man, a father trying to set a proper example for his sons. Throughout his career and family life, Wade has persevered through an array of trials and tribulations. Dwyane Wade could have simply kept these experiences to himself but instead the iconic athlete has penned his thoughts in a book titled “A Father First: How My Life Became Bigger Than Basketball.” And in a way to promote the release of the book, Wade traveled to Harlem’s soon to be opened, “My Image Studios” or MIST Harlem, for an onsite interview and book signing for his rowdy fans.

The anticipation for Wade’s arrival was telling as a lengthy line of fans and supporters waited out in the late summer heat. When it was time to finally enter the venue, everyone did so quickly and in an orderly manner to insure that the signing would begin on time. Before the man of the hour would take center stage, one of MIST’s top board members would welcome the packed house in an embracing manner. Because the studio has yet to open, much of the space remained unfinished, but it became clear that when the day arrives, My Image Studios will be one of the most enriching and community active establishments in Harlem. The venue will house film screenings featuring African American and Latin based features, a restaurant serving up tasty fare, a bar area, and a variety of other exciting options.

Directly after the highly uplifting intro to the venue, the guest of honor was finally announced. The towering shooting guard quickly made his way past a sea of flash bulbs and deafening cheers to take center stage for an interview about his book. To keep this event as local as possible, Wade was interviewed by one of NY1′s own reporters, a nice touch. Wade opened by addressing the crowd up front, candidly relaying the relation of the completed book to his own upbringing, and how he utilizes these lessons on a daily basis to spend as much time with his children as possible. His impetus for writing the book in the first place was to help other fathers to better themselves through his own experiences. Although MIST was jam-packed to capacity, nary a peep could be heard in the audience as the gathered crowd listened to the star’s every word.

The open nature of the interview gave us a deeper glimpse at the man underneath the black Miami jersey. Besides having two boys of his own, Wade also looks after his nephew as well, boldly stating that he was “raising three future leaders.” Without getting political, Wade also praised President Obama’s work, commenting on the position he was given as an ambassador to fathers and families, undertaking numerous speaking engagements all over the country. Throughout this uplifting and serious interview, there were also some lighter moments. Wade reflected upon the various ways he communicates with his sons when he is out of town, utilizing various tech products to always remain in touch no matter how far. He joked that sometimes when he wants to see one of his sons for some quality time they will respond that they have plans. “You’re ten, how do you have plans,” he mused while chuckling. 

Dwyane Wade’s “A Father First: How My Life Became Bigger Than Basketball” is available now and provides some deeper insight into being a better father and a better man, written by one of the most driven and determined athletes and brands in sports. Even though the audience remained quiet and attentive for most of the evening during the interview, a perfect break in conversation occurred leading one fan to yell out a line that perfectly encapsulated the evening: “That’s why you the champ!”

- Jay Rubin