NBA playoffs 2018: Dwyane Wade hushes retirement talk, praises grown up 76ers

Dwyane Wade is choosing to live in the present rather than worry about the future — for now.

Despite a disappointing end to his season as the Heat were eliminated from the playoffs with a 104-91 loss to the 76ers in Game 5 on Tuesday, the veteran guard admitted he has considered calling it a career, but isn’t ready to make a definitive decision yet.

“That’s not my focus,” Wade said, via ESPN. “Fresh off this NBA season, my 15th year, I sit back and think about that. Then I dive and throw myself into my family. They’re next on my bucket list, making sure I’m there for them. And when it comes to the basketball side of it, which is a long time away from now, then I’ll think about that.

“I love Philly, but ain’t gonna be no breaking news here in Philly. I’m sorry. I appreciate [the concern], but let me worry about that later.”

His wife, actress Gabrielle Union, expressed a similar sentiment on Twitter after the game.

I hope this isnt the end, but my God… @DwyaneWade has a career most people dream of. He is a damn legend. An icon. And hes cute ? #HeatNation

— Gabrielle Union (@itsgabrielleu) April 25, 2018

Sixers center Joel Embiid was unsure if he would get the opportunity to face Wade again next season and wished him the best in case he decided to retire.

“I had to pay my respects because I don’t know if this is it or if he has another year, but he’s a great and a Hall of Famer,” Embiid said.

Wade praised Embiid and point guard Ben Simmons, saying the league “is in great hands” with the young stars.

“I think they grew up and learned some things from us and the way we pushed them,” Wade added “These guys are the future of the NBA.”

Wade, 36, was traded from the Cavaliers to the Heat ahead of February’s trade deadline and will look to finish his career in Miami where it began. The 12-time All-Star is eager to add another championship ring to his collection first.