SUNRISE, Fla. — Retired NBA star Dwyane Wade was a surprise guest speaker Sunday at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School’s graduation ceremony, leading cheers and recalling how nervous he was to meet students following the on-campus shootings last year that claimed 17 lives.

Wade called himself “part of this MSD family” and told graduates that it was understandable if they feel unsure about their futures — because in some ways, after 16 years in the NBA, he also is unsure exactly what his future entails.

“I’m so proud to say the words ‘MSD Strong,’” Wade said. “Today, you will close a chapter in your lives and embark on new experiences and journeys and memories. And it’s a time to celebrate and be proud of everything you’ve done to make it to this moment.”