The recent days were sad ones for the NBA and particularly for Dwyane Wade, as his longtime agent, Henry “Hank” Thomas passed away at the age of 64. The latter represented the Cleveland Cavaliers guard, along with other Miami Heat players in the past like Chris Bosh and Tim Hardaway, and is considered a very influential figure for the Cavs veteran.

The former 12-time All-Star took to his Instagram account to post a heartfelt message in memory of Thomas. Wade started by recalling how Thomas was always there for him throughout his career and the impact he had on him.

From his experiences as a professional, and even in his personal life, Thomas was there to give Wade guidance and words of advice he will never forget. The Cavs guard then ended his message by calling himself his son, which only goes to show how much he respects and thinks highly of him.

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Wade, along with his former teammate with the Heat, Udonis Haslem, took a leave from their respective teams to be by Thomas’ side. They are expected to attend his funeral and may ask to be excused once again for any game or practices as they pay their last respects to the veteran agent.

Cavs general manager Koby Altman already told Wade to “take his time” while he’s mourning, as he understands the kind of relationship Wade had with Thomas, being more than just an agent for him, but a real friend and even a father-figure to the future Hall of Famer.