Miami’s playoff chances heat up with return of center Mourning

MIAMI – Alonzo Mourning once was larger than life, the Miami Heat’s biggest star. Now, even he acknowledges those days are gone.

Yet Mourning also steadfastly believes he can still play at a championship-caliber level. Now, at last, he’s back with Miami and ready to resume his past quest – delivering the Heat’s first NBA title.

The seven-time All-Star center signed a contract Tuesday to rejoin Miami, the team with which he spent eight previous seasons – a stint twice interrupted by kidney disease. He’s expected to make about $325,000 for the rest of the season, a prorated share of the $1.1 million minimum veteran contract.

“It’s definitely been a long time coming,” the 35-year-old Mourning said after a two-hour practice and 30 minutes of extra shooting drills. “It just feels good, feels good to be back home, having everything finalized. I’ve been here for the past three months training, just waiting, being patient.”

Mourning should be in uniform Thursday when Miami visits New Jersey.

He averaged 10.4 points and 7.1 rebounds in 18 games for the Nets earlier this season.

To clear a roster spot, Miami waived forward Wesley Person, who played 27 minutes since Dec. 4 and was displeased with his diminished role. Person may soon sign with the Denver Nuggets.

Teammates gave high marks after Mourning’s first full workout.

“He’s just going to make us a tougher team to beat,” said center Shaquille O’Neal.

Mourning, who underwent a kidney transplant in December 2003, said he’s received full clearance by doctors to resume playing.