Tough Enough

On December 19, all Heat fans got a saddening vision of Alonzo Mourning tearing his patella tendon in his right knee and rupturing two of his tendons in that leg. Zo's season is over and his career is likely done as well. And although his career did end on a sour note, Mourning was certainly tough enough.

Zo was initially put on a stretcher, but did not take the easy way out. He bit his lip, climbed to his feet, and limped off the court. This was certainly not the storybook ending for the career of a man's life that was remarkably saved four years ago and made one of the most memorable comebacks in NBA history. However, Zo at least left the court his way: fearless down to the last step.

On October 3, 2000, Alonzo Mourning was diagnosed with a severe kidney ailment and would have to sit out the entire ensuing season and the entire 2002-03 season. His life was saved by his cousin, whose donated kidney was a perfect match for Zo. Some may have been pleased just to get out of that ordeal alive. But it wasn't enough for Zo. He resumed his championship chase.

Mourning signed with the Miami Heat again on March 1, 2005. He helped them secure the first seed in the East and breeze through the first two rounds, especially having to fill O'Neal's size 24-shoes in the final two games of the second-round series against the Washington Wizards. In the Eastern Conference Finals, Zo's tenacious defense and leadership helped Miami win two of the first three games against the Pistons. However, the then-defending champions would then push it to a deciding Game 7. In a nail-biter in the Triple A, the Heat came up short.

Zo contemplated retirement throughout the summer, but ultimately decided to come back for a championship run. However, the Heat would start the season at a disappointing 10-10 and finished the season with a 52-30 record, respectable but hardly invincible. After making it all the way to the NBA Finals, Zo would not let his team waste an opportunity this great. After trailing big in the opening minutes of Game 6, Zo registered five blocks in the title-clinching game and finally got what he wanted: a championship.

Zo could've retired right then and there. No one would have blamed him. However, Zo never took the easy way out. Even after a dismal season of title defense, Zo still believed the Heat had a shot to go for a title. But look at the Heat now. They're 7-19, the worst in the East.

Mourning has still been touched by the poverty of Miami. His Foundation is considered by many to be a model for professional athletes, giving millions and millions to local charities. He even has been encouraged to find a cure for kindey disease. In 2005, Mourning gave his entire salary to charities to find a cure for kidney disease.

Even at the curtain call of his 15-year NBA career, Mourning delivered a lesson on the court. His knee got torn up, but beyond the anger and hopelessness, he found a way to direct the final scene. He got up.

He's always gotten up.