Udonis Haslem announces return to Heat for 17th season

Miami native has been part of all 3 championship teams with Heat

MIAMI – For a team in which legends like Shaq, LeBron and Dwyane Wade have suited up, there is no bigger Heat star than Udonis Haslem, and it appears U-D isn't ready to call it a career just yet.

In a post made to his Instagram account Tuesday, Haslem, 39, said he will be returning for an incredible 17th season with the team. He will earn $2.6 million this season.

Haslem wrote "Too (sic) be continued Heat Nation!!!" in the post alongside a photo of his locker inside the AmericanAirlines Arena.

While Haslem's return had been expected, the post seems to make the move official. 

"We are proud to welcome our captain back for a 17th season," Heat president Pat Riley said. "UD is the heart and soul of Miami and we are proud to have him help lead this team once again."

Haslem appeared in just 10 games last season in which he celebrated alongside Dwyane Wade during the Heat favorite's farewell tour through the NBA.

A star at Miami Senior High School and the University of Florida, Haslem has been with the Heat for the franchise's three NBA titles and earned NBA All-Rookie Second Team honors in 2004.