Miami Heat legend Alonzo Mourning was one of the fiercest competitors and a defensive monster during his career.

The Heat will unveil the “Pat Riley Court” on Wednesday night when the team takes on the Orlando Magic.

Mourning and Riley started a movement that laid the foundation for what the Heat organization is all about today: the expectation to work hard to be competitive and fight tirelessly.

In an interview with Locked On Heat, Mourning revealed a special moment he and Riley once shared after their training session.

“We sat on the floor, just him and me in the gym. Everyone else had left,” Mourning said. “We had a long two-hour conversation. I told him where I came from, my background and what I hoped to achieve from this game. He shared his vision and everything with me. I wish I could have gotten this on video. That was a touching moment for me because I think that was the moment we really strengthened our bond and I made my commitment to him.”

Thirty years of working in an organization is an amazing achievement. Riley has put his heart and soul into building this culture.

“He was the ultimate leader and the ultimate architect when it comes to winning,” Mourning said. “I am blessed to have been part of this journey. I’ve known the man since 1995. He brought me here in 1995 and changed my life.”

Mourning was a two-time Defensive Player of the Year and led the league in blocks twice.

Mourning is grateful for the relationship with him and looks forward to celebrating the honor with him.

Miguel Mike Medina is a Miami Heat On SI contributor. He can be reached at [email protected]

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