MIAMI – It's that time of the year to give thanks for all the wonderful things we have in life. You know, the important stuff: A healthy family, loving friends, a stable job and, yes, sports.
OK, so maybe sports really isn't too significant in the grand scheme of things, but we're lucky to have sports as an escape from the sometimes tough realities that face us in life every day.
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With that said, we're especially lucky in South Florida to have the Miami Heat. They've provided some pretty amazing moments, especially in the last decade.
So without further ado, here are the top 10 reasons to be thankful you're a Miami Heat fan.
10) Mario Chalmers was re-signed.
Huh? Those are words I never thought I'd type, but 15 games into this season and we're starting to see keeping Chalmers was one of the best moves Miami made this offseason. Sure, keeping the two core players together was vital, but Chalmers has been a steady force early in the season while the team has dealt with injuries. As crazy as it sounds, his versatility has saved the Heat, and he's found his role as a shooting guard who can spot start or come off the bench as a 6th man.
9) Arena experience
I often tell people you won't find a better in-arena experience that has nothing to do with the actual game than at a Heat game. From the opening intros, DJ Irie, Golden Oldies, Uptown Dale, the Extreme Team, in-house videos, celebrities courtside and, of course, the Heat dancers. Let's just say I've been to many arenas and stadiums around the country, and God bless the Heat dancers! So maybe they won't win every game, but trust me, you'll still have a good time.
8) Broadcast team
Yes, I'm a little biased now that I'm part of it, but this crew is as good as it gets. From Eric Reid dropping his kabooms to Tony Fiorentino providing his unique perspective and screaming Mario "Chall-mas" to Jason Jackson holding it together with his always entertaining style and occasional ascot. I also can't forget the latest addition, Ron Rothstein. Thank you for just being Ron Rothstein. Plus, there's the always versatile Kristen Hewitt. Mix in Mike Inglis making every moment on the radio a wild ride and John Crotty being as cool as they come, and you just can't top it.
7) You're in the Eastern Conference.
At 8-7 through 15 games, the Heat are one of the top 5 seeds in the East. In the West, they'd be on the outside looking in at the playoff race. Yes, it's a long season, but it's pretty clear the East will be a conference filled with parity and some flat out bad teams. This alone should give Heat fans hope they can make a run come the playoffs.
6) Young talent is developing.
The 1-2 rookie punch of Shabazz Napier and James Ennis has been a pleasure to watch. Especially since they're actually playing key moments in crunch time. Napier, in particular, has carved out his role as a vital part of the rotation. While Ennis is providing some high-flying plays that we knew the team would sorely miss with that other James not in town anymore, the future is bright for this rookie duo.
5) Great ownership
I don't really have to tell Heat fans this, but you're lucky to have Micky Arison running the show. Sure, he's at every game, but is he ever really heard from? Arison sits back and let's his basketball people make decisions and players play. He's a billionaire, but you'd never guess it by his disposition. Meanwhile, he's actively involved with fans on social media and is just an all around cool guy.
4) Giving back
On Thanksgiving, it's a perfect time to point out that few sports franchises give back to the community more than the Heat. From their charitable fund, efforts with local schools, work with recognizing military personnel and much more, the Heat just get it. They understand what it takes to make a difference in the community, and they get it done every day. That attitude carries over to a number of the players who do great work in South Florida, including former player Alonzo Mourning.
3) Trio of NBA championships
And counting. Just think of all the franchises and fan bases that dream of having just one title. Miami has three overall since 2006, and they have been in contention for a championship numerous other times. All you can ask for as a fan is a real hope. Heat fans have a real belief that the franchise has a chance to win for years to come.
2) Heat lifers
Being a "Heat lifer" starts with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh, but it also includes Udonis Haslem. Wade gave up money to remain in a Miami uniform and give the Heat more flexibility to improve the roster this season. Yes, I know he's aging and injuries tend to be a concern, but when he's on the court, he still produces, and let's not forget he was a key reason for those three titles I mentioned.
As for Bosh, he came back with a huge contract and a huge chip on his shoulder to be the No. 1 guy. He could have gone to Houston and accepted less pressure and a great opportunity to win more titles, but he decided to stay here and be the man moving forward.
Finally, there's UD. What else can you say? He's been the heart and soul of the Heat and he is the true definition of a Heat lifer. As long as he wants it, he will always have a role with this team moving forward.
1) Pat Riley and Erik Spoesltra
Yes, they go hand in hand. Riley's resume speaks for itself. As long as Riley is pulling the strings on personnel moves, the present and future remains bright. Few people can juggle the stresses of staying a contender now, but still staying in position for even bigger things in the future better that Riley. Nothing proves that more than the coup of 2010 when he brought the "Big Three" together when very few thought it was possible.
But now Spoesltra deserves the same type of praise. When Riley gave him the job, many believed Spo was in over his head. The belief was that he was just a puppet of Riley and a questionable choice as coach. Are there any questions now?
The last four years proved just how good Spoesltra has become. He handled the constant pressure and attention with his "Spoisms" to the media and players. While his motivational ways may sound hokey at times, his players buy into it. Spo has a unique way of getting the best from his players and making them understand the sacrifices that need to be made to win. He's also not afraid to juggle lineups and try different rotations. The bottom line is he's a championship coach and only getting better over time.
So again, be thankful for all the great things in life. And be thankful you're a Miami Heat fan.
Happy Thanksgiving!
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