[Basketball News]

Knowing the question was coming, Miami center Alonzo Mourning leaned toward the microphones and tried to deliver a preemptive strike.

Mourning Unsure What Next Season Will Bring

[Lefty Noob]

On the one hand, Mourning is 37. On the other hand, he blocked 178 shots and had his highest points per game average since the 2001-02 season. Plus he has his wife's blessing to keep playing. So does 'Zo come back, or does he hang them up?

[WhiskeyTangoFoxtrot]

I'm thinking he's done. His defense was as good as ever in the past two seasons, but you could see his endurance was inconsistent and even wavering at times. Particularly when Shaq was hurt.

Zo's as fierce of a competitor as we'll ever see on the professional level - but I think he should bow out... it's time for this team to rebuild.

"It's better to burn out than to fade away."
Neil Young

[azrael492]

I hope he comes back for another season. He deserves a little fanfare before he goes out. I would like to go see him play one last time. A lot of younger players could use him as an example of how to play the game. His determination just to play again is incredible. I admire him and I don't think athletes are usually good role models.

[DaBigManOnCampus]

But if he retires now, do you think that he is worthy of the Hall of Fame? He Monacre is Blocking Shots, and the fact that he is a man that can still back up into it, To me He is like a Jimmy smith of the Jaguars (I think thats his name) Even though Zo' went through alot, this season can look like he can still do it, but He wont make the HOF because he does'nt have that special game on him at all.

But still, he is one of the greatest Miami Heat Players of all time...

You can't lie about that.

[WhiskeyTangoFoxtrot]

Beyond basketball he is arguably South Florida's greatest sports figure, next to Dan Marino.

Wade and Shaq are huge, don't get me wrong, but as far as his impact on the local community -- few come even close. Throw in his comeback from the transplant and I'm not sure that even Dan could touch him.

It would truly be a shame if he's ignored from the HOF.

[MJHMarc]

He won't be.

He is one of those good guys you can't pass up on.

[marcowazhere]

with shaq being constantly injured for 1/2 the season, and no defensive back up for him, zo should stay for 1 more year, and get a younger center so he can learn to play with power from shaq, and defense from zo.