It was simply a formality, but the Bulls announced late Friday night that guard Dwyane Wade has officially signed with the Bulls. Wade's deal, as first reported by CSN Insider Vincent Goodwill, is worth $47 million over two years.
The 12-time All-Star agreed to join the Bulls more than a week ago, and even publicly stated that he decided to return to his hometown in both letters and interviews. But members of the Bulls and their staff weren't allowed to discuss Wade until the deal was made official.
Wade had a bounceback year in 2015, averaging 19.0 points, 4.1 rebounds and 4.6 assists in 74 games for the Heat, the team that drafted him in 2003. The 34-year-old showed he still had plenty left in the tank in the playoffs, averaging 21.4 points and 5.6 rebounds.
The Chicago native was the Bulls' major haul during a busy offseason which saw them trade Derrick Rose, say goodbye to Pau Gasol and Joakim Noah, and sign point guard Rajon Rondo.
Wade, who was in Chicago on July 11, also had a message for fans that the Bulls posted on Twitter:
"What's up, everybody? It's Dwyane Wade, now of the Chicago Bulls. I can't tell you how good that sounds and how good that feels. I'm excited to play at a place that I've always envisioned playing in, playing in the city I was born and raised in. I'm excited to hear your guys' cheers and support behind this organization and this team. I can't wait to (see) what the future holds for us, but I think it's going to be real fun. So everybody get ready for this ride and let's enjoy it. Thank you guys for the support, and I'll see y'all soon."