By: Dustin Chapman

Back on December 19 in Atlanta, Heat center Alonzo Mourning tore the patella tendon in his right knee trying to make a defensive play in transition. Shortly after, “Zo” underwent what was thought to be career-ending surgery.

Nearly five months later, Mourning is, as usual, showing the true warrior in his soul. The 15-year NBA veteran has reportedly decided to lace ‘em up for one last time next season, barring any major setbacks throughout his recovery process.

There is a great deal of irony involved in Mourning’s situation, however. The 2003 kidney transplant he underwent took place on December 19. This past season’s knee injury? Once again, occurred on December 19. It doesn’t get any freakier than that.

All irony aside, let’s take a moment to recognize Mourning’s mental strength. Whether you’re a die-hard basketball fan or an average Joe with an ounce of sympathetic compassion, learning that Mourning is going to return to the court is nothing short of a heartwarming story. This, adding to the kidney failure that threatened his well-being and forced him to retire in 2003, shows what Alonzo Mourning the man is all about. No matter what the situation, there is a gene in his body that will never allow him to quit. It’s impossible to feel anything but outstanding respect for him.

It would have been a real shame to see a guy like Alonzo Mourning go out the way he could have this past season. Here’s to a successful recovery and 2008-2009 season for the man who epitomizes heart, toughness, and mental endurance.

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