There are very few NBA franchises who can match the Miami Heat on a foundational level. They have created a separate identity for themselves in the league. The most prominent figure in the well-known Heat Culture is Pat Riley. He introduced the attitude to his team back in 1995. Since then, every other member of the team has contributed to it.

While there have been several legends to come out of the Heat Culture, one in particular shares more in common than many. This 53-year-old was recently featured in their campaign, reminiscing the good old days while boasting his contributions to the franchise.

Alonzo Mourning for the Heat Culture campaign

There have been several iconic figures in the history of the Miami franchise. From Dwyane Wade to Udonis Haslem, they’ve all upheld the values of their team through the years. Even today, the Heat follow a set of rules that apply to everyone, regardless of their fame or status. For Heat, the team is always a priority and the veterans are respected and seen as big brothers. One pioneer of this culture is Alonzo Mourning. Three years after making his NBA debut, Mourning moved to the Miami franchise in 1995. This was the same time when Riley had the idea of the Heat Culture.

After spending eight years at the franchise, Mourning came back to Miami in 2008 when it was time for him to say goodbye to the league.

Recently, the Miami franchise has launched a campaign that talks about their highly celebrated culture. While they have launched merchandise related to the campaign and have had their best current players as the face, the veterans hold a special place. Mourning features in one of their campaigns, the teaser of which was released recently by the 53-year-old. Although 28 years have gone by, in the clip, we hear him saying, “It still feels like yesterday.”

As per the official Miami Heat Instagram page, they are planning to release the Mourning campaign in parts.

Read More: ?Go Get It? ? Jimmy Butler Gets His Wish as ?Close Friend? Neymar Jr. Supports Him Ahead of NBA Finals Game 3 in Miami

Shaquille O’Neal on the Heat culture

Shaquille O’Neal was a part of the Heat Culture as well. Even today, the Big Man boasts of his contributions to upholding the standards of the team. On his podcast, Shaq revealed he had to even change his diet, in order to cater to the needs of the team. Notorious for not following a strict regime during his NBA days, the Big Man realized the Miami franchise required more from him and that the culture is bigger than just one player.

What do you think about this larger-than-life culture? Let us know in the comments!

Watch This Story: Serena Williams vs Jimmy Butler, net worth comparison