A sad day in Miami Heat history

And just like that, the glorious career of Alonzo Mourning is over. With a blink of the eye, 15 years of hard-work, dedication, and an unparalleled hustle is over. Mourning's career had so much impact on the game of basketball and to see it end like this just did not seem fair. When I saw Mourning fall to the ground and clutch his knee, I knew it could not be good. I knew a 37-year old center clutching his knee in pain could mean a sad day in Heat history. As I expected, ESPN announced the next morning that Alonzo Mourning tore his right patellar tendon and that it would require season ending surgery. And with this being Zo's final season, it would mean his career would come to a sad end. For a player that had so much tenacity and love for the game, you didn't expect him to end his career with a knee injury. But, he did it doing what he did best- playing defense.

In a season that many considered lost for the Miami Heat, Alonzo Mourning still believed in his heart that the team could turn the season around. Every game of this pathetic season for the Heat, Mourning tried his hardest and was always hungry for a win. He did not have to do what he did. He already had won a championship, already owns every record in the Miami Heat record book, and was easily on his way to the hall of fame. But Zo wanted to win another championship and wanted to deliver more happiness to Heat fans. But while trying to accomplish that feat, he sustained a career ending injury. Zo had such a big heart and wanted to make every one happy. Although Zo's last season won't be remembered for being drenched in champagne after a Miami Heat championship, it will still be remembered for his best quality: his toughness. Zo ended his career playing defense and did while doing another thing he did superbly- blocking shots. Zo's attempt to block a shot by Hawk's guard Mario West epitomized his legacy. He was a player that never gave up on a play, always thought he could block a shot no matter how big or tall the person was, and always put forth full effort.

Alonzo Mourning will not only be remembered for his great statistics, great defense, and great effort, but will also be remembered for his big heart. Alonzo Mourning's legacy is a story like no other. Just 4 years ago, Mourning was fighting for his life when he found out he had a life threatening kidney ailment. But Mourning did what he always did, he fought through it. He fought through his illness and won an NBA championship. His legacy will always be remembered.

With the loss of Alonzo Mourning, The Heat lose a legend, a Miami Heat icon, and a player that will never be forgotten. Alonzo Mourning's number 33 will be hanging in American Airlines Arena forever and will be remembered by not only Heat fans but by the entire basketball community. Zo- thank you for the great memories and all the things you accomplished for the Miami Heat organization.