Alonzo Mourning Retires

Alonzo Mourning, one of the Heat's most celebrated franchise players, announced his retirement today, rather than attempt a comeback after a devastating leg injury in 2007. "I truly feel it's best that I retire," Mourning said at a news conference. "When you've got something you love and you're passionate about,...

By Kyle Munzenrieder

January 22, 2009

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Alonzo Mourning, one of the Heat's most celebrated franchise players, announced his retirement today, rather than attempt a comeback after a devastating leg injury in 2007.

"I truly feel it's best that I retire," Mourning said at a

news conference. "When you've got something you love and you're

passionate about, it's hard to let that go. But at 38 I feel I've

physically done all I can for this game. It has been an amazing ride."

Mourning had two stints with the heat. The first from 1995-2001, and the most recent from '05-'07. Despite frequently being sidelined for injury and illnesses, he was the team's all-time leader in points scored, was an NBA All-Star seven times, helped lead the team to a 2006 championship, and won gold at the 2000 Olympics.

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