Grant Long

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

Grant Long was a member of the Miami Heat from the franchise's inaugural 1988–89 season through the 1996–97 season. During his tenure, the Heat experienced a period of mediocrity before gaining relevance in the mid-1990s when Pat Riley became team president and head coach. Long was part of the team that, after Riley's arrival, saw a dramatic turnaround in the 1996–97 season, improving to a 61–21 record—a franchise record at the time and currently second-best in team history. That same year, the Heat earned the moniker 'Road Warriors' for their remarkable 32–9 record on the road. Long contributed to the Heat's first two series victories in the playoffs that season, helping the team reach the Eastern Conference Finals against the Chicago Bulls, where they lost in five games. His defensive intensity and physicality were hallmarks of his play during this era.

In Their Own Story

In the 1996–97 season, Grant Long was part of a Miami Heat team that underwent a dramatic turnaround, improving to a 61–21 record—a franchise record at the time. The Heat earned the nickname 'Road Warriors' for their remarkable 32–9 record on the road. Long and his teammates achieved the franchise's first two series victories in the playoffs, advancing to the Eastern Conference Finals. There, they faced the Michael Jordan-led Chicago Bulls, ultimately losing the series in five games. Long's defensive intensity and physicality were key components of the Heat's identity during this run, helping to establish the team as a championship contender.

Reader's Guide

Grant Long played for the Miami Heat from the 1988–89 season through the 1996–97 season. He was a power forward known for his defensive intensity and physicality. During his tenure, the Heat made the playoffs twice in their first eight years, falling in the first round both times. After Pat Riley became team president and head coach in 1995, the Heat underwent a dramatic turnaround in the 1996–97 season, improving to a 61–21 record—a franchise record at the time and currently second-best in team history. That season, the Heat earned the moniker 'Road Warriors' for their remarkable 32–9 record on the road. Long contributed to the team's first two series victories in the playoffs, helping them reach the Eastern Conference Finals against the Chicago Bulls, where they lost in five games. Long's role as a defensive anchor and physical presence was integral to the Heat's rise from an expansion team to a playoff contender.

Did You Know?

• Grant Long was a member of the Miami Heat from the franchise's first season in 1988–89 through the 1996–97 season.
• Long was part of the Heat team that achieved a franchise-record 61–21 record in the 1996–97 season.
• The 1996–97 Heat earned the nickname 'Road Warriors' for their remarkable 32–9 record on the road.
• Long played for the Heat during the tenure of Pat Riley, who became team president and head coach in 1995.