Heat retire Tim Hardaway’s No. 10
October 28, 2009
MIAMI (AP)—Saying he was “overwhelmed,” Tim Hardaway beamed Wednesday nightas he watched his No. 10 jersey raised to the rafters by the Miami Heat, neverto be worn again.
With about 50 family and friends looking on, including the other two partsof the famed “Run TMC” trio—Mitch Richmond and Chris Mullin—that he firstcaptured NBA acclaim with, Hardaway’s oversized jersey was hoisted skywardbefore Miami opened its season against the New York Knicks.
“Tonight, I stand before you truly humble and grateful,” Hardaway said.
Hardaway had hugs for everybody—players, coaches, even referee JoeCrawford(notes), no small feat considering how much the player loved to clash withofficials during his playing days.
Before he came to Miami, only three other players had worn No. 10: KelvinUpshaw, Clinton Wheeler and Manute Bol. No one had since Hardaway left the Heatin 2001.
His is the second Heat jersey to be retired: Alonzo Mourning’s(notes) No. 33 washoisted last season.
“It’s another great moment,” Heat president Pat Riley said. “I would sayfrom the year 2006 until now, we’ve had a couple of incredible moments. Both ofthem are hanging from the rafters, our world championship banner that we’re soproud of—and there’s more of those in store for the future—and of courseAlonzo Mourning last year, one of the anchors of this franchise.”
Hardaway is still the Heat career leader in 3-point field goals and assists,ranks fifth in points and steals, and is 10th in regular-season games played.
“His contributions helped build a successful championship franchise,”Mourning said.