MIAMI — Michael Jordan might be Dwyane Wade’s idol. But he’s no longer his business partner.
The Miami Heat star confirmed Tuesday he will leave Nike’s Jordan Brand, the shoe he has worn the past three seasons. He’s expected to sign with the Chinese brand Li-Ning.
“I just really can’t comment on my new deal,’’ Wade said. “I did mutually part ways with the Jordan umbrella, with Jordan and Converse. I had a great nine years, but we have mutually parted ways, and I’m moving on.’’
Wade said he’s “not disappointed’’ at leaving the Jordan Brand. But he did acknowledge having had a chance to work with Jordan, the Bulls star Wade grew up in Chicago idolizing.
“It’s just the time,’’ Wade said. “We just went our separate ways. But I still feel honored to have represented my favorite player of all time and his brand and the opportunity I was given.’’
It’s possible Wade officially could announce his new relationship with Li-Ning at a news conference next week in China, where the Heat will play preseason games against the Los Angeles Clippers in Beijing and Shanghai. As to whether Wade plays in either game, that remains to be seen.
Wade on Tuesday, though, did assure he will play in more than one of Miami’s eight preseason games. With Wade coming off surgery on his left knee, there had been speculation he might not be ready until the Oct. 30 regular-season opener against Boston.
“I will try a preseason game,’’ Wade said. “It won’t be eight, but it will be more than one. If I keep progressing, I will try.’’
Whenever Wade next steps on the court, there likely will be two Miami players donning Chinese shoes. Forward Shane Battier is entering his seventh season wearing the Chinese brand Peak.
“Welcome Dwyane to the Chinese shoe family,’’ Battier said. “It’s good to have my fellow brother over there.’’
Battier began his association with China due to previously being Yao Ming’s teammate in Houston. Following LeBron James and Wade, Battier believes he will be the third-most popular Miami player in China.
James, obviously, is the first. Just listen to what James, who has a deal with Nike, said when asked about his business interests in China.
“My shoes sell everywhere,’’ he said.
Chris Tomasson can be reached at christomasson@hotmail.com or on Twitter @christomasson
