MIAMI – Alonzo Mourning's recovery from a kidney ailment is going well, his doctor said, and the Heat center has increased his participation in practices, The Miami Herald reported Wednesday.
One of Mourning's physicians told the newspaper Tuesday the center is being given blood tests before and after workouts.
Dr. Victor Richards declined to speculate on the possibility of Mourning playing this season. The blood-test results are expected in a couple of weeks.
Mourning, who could not be reached for comment, has said his desire is to return this season but he would listen to his doctors, who have advised against a comeback before next season.
"If he's fine (with the blood tests and stamina during practice), we will have to evaluate it at that point," Richards told The Herald. "Depending on how he does will dictate further action."
Heat publicist Tim Donovan said Mourning "will not play this season," and declined to elaborate.
Mourning, 31, was diagnosed in October with focal glomerulosclerosis, a disease that damages the filters of the kidney. It was initially forecast he would miss the entire season, but his positive response to medication raised Mourning's hopes he could return sooner.
Two weeks ago, Dr. Gerald B. Appel said Mourning's return this season was highly unlikely, but if Mourning did return, it was essential he come back before the playoffs to prepare himself for the rigors and intensity of the postseason. Send this story to a friend | Most sent stories
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