Alonzo Mourning Announces Retirement From The NBA

by David Dwork on Jan 22, 2009 3:12 PM EST

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Alonzo Mourning announced his retirement from the NBA during a very emotional press conference at the AAA earlier today. Zo had been trying to return from a vicious knee injury sustained last December in Atlanta, but the 38-year-old says he is ready to move on. Mourning has had a full career, winning an NBA title with the Heat in 2006 and a gold medal with Team USA in 2000. He was selected to the NBA All-Star team 7 times and won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year twice.

''After 16 years, I feel it's best that I retire from the game of basketball,'' Mourning said during an emotional news conference at AmericanAirlines Arena. ``When you've got something you love and you're passionate about, it's hard to let that go. It truly is. It's not a sad day, but it's a day to celebrate.''

Mourning played 11 of his 15 seasons with the Heat, and has been considered the face of the franchise since he first arrived in Miami in 1995. His career numbers of 17.5 points, 8.5 rebounds and 2.8 blocks per game are a testament to the amazing hard work he put fourth throughout his NBA career.

''At 38, I feel like I've physically done all I can for this game,'' Mourning said. ``God knows it's been an amazing ride. He's blessed me with some amazing years.''

Zo, you will be missed.

**UPDATED-ALONZO MOURNING POLL**

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Poll

What will you remember most about Zo? Obviously there are countless memories that we can all have, so my suggestions are merely to get us started. If you choose 'other' then let us know what yours are in the comments. Lets celebrate the career of Zo.

The way he played in the 06 Finals

3 votes

His defense and shot blocking ability

7 votes

The Heat-Knicks rivalry games in the 90s

5 votes

His comeback from a kidney transplant

4 votes

Other

2 votes

21 votes | Poll has closed

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Comments

I feel like crying

By far my favorite athlete since my youth. I am blessed to have met him and read his book

by kazam92 on Jan 22, 2009 4:01 PM EST reply actions

No all of the above for the poll?

I cant choose one

by kazam92 on Jan 22, 2009 6:05 PM EST reply actions

b/c there are so many more things then just what i listed...who am i to limit you my particular choices.

"South Florida Sports Are My Life."

by David Dwork on Jan 22, 2009 6:28 PM EST up reply actions

ZO'......you will be missed

so many times we have seen great players do so much and never get that ring….its a BLESSING he got it on the 2nd go round with the Heat. Thank you ZO for everything youve done….i know we will see him all over Miami for years to come making a diffrence in the community like he has from day 1.

Thanks for the Memories ZO

"Worst 2 First"...Your 2008 AFC East Champion Miami Dolphins

by Rzayo24 on Jan 22, 2009 10:12 PM EST reply actions

I never got rid of my ZO jersey the first time around, and proudly wore it the second time around. I have great memories of Zo and Tim Hardaway back in the old Miami Arena. Zo played with an intensity that is rarely found in todays game.

by nitro on Jan 23, 2009 12:38 PM EST reply actions