NBA Legend With Kidney Transplant Backs Miami Heat Staffer in Fight Against Chronic Kidney Disease

Alonzo Mourning, who overcame a serious kidney condition, is supporting Rob Pimental as he battles chronic kidney disease.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 2:24pm

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A ghostly, translucent X-ray photograph revealing the intricate internal structure of a human kidney, with glowing veins and arteries against a dark background, conceptually representing the fragility and complexity of this vital organ.An X-ray view of the intricate internal structure of the human kidney, a vital organ that many struggle to keep healthy.Today in Miami

Alonzo Mourning, a Miami Heat legend who overcame a serious kidney condition to make an NBA comeback, is now supporting Rob Pimental, the team's Director of Team Operations, as he battles chronic kidney disease. Pimental requires a kidney and pancreas transplant, and Mourning, who received a kidney transplant 22 years ago, has been providing advice, encouragement, and a visible platform to raise awareness about the global kidney disease crisis.

Why it matters

Mourning's story of overcoming a life-threatening kidney condition and making a remarkable NBA comeback has inspired many, and his support for Pimental shines a light on the challenges faced by those dealing with chronic kidney disease. Their collaboration aims to raise awareness and encourage organ donation to help those in need of transplants.

The details

Pimental was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease over the summer and is currently undergoing daily dialysis while waiting for a kidney and pancreas transplant. Despite the limitations and exhaustion caused by his condition, Pimental has remained a fixture at the Miami Heat's Kaseya Center, embodying the team's 'family' culture. Mourning, who was diagnosed with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) and had to retire from the NBA, made a remarkable comeback after receiving a kidney transplant in 2003. He has since become a champion for those dealing with similar battles, and his support for Pimental is a testament to his commitment to the cause.

  • Alonzo Mourning received a kidney transplant in 2003.
  • Pimental was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease over the summer of 2026.

The players

Alonzo Mourning

A Miami Heat legend who overcame a serious kidney condition to make an NBA comeback, and is now supporting Rob Pimental in his battle against chronic kidney disease.

Rob Pimental

The Miami Heat's Director of Team Operations, who was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease and requires a kidney and pancreas transplant.

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What they’re saying

“It's been 22 years for me post-transplant, you know. And immediately when I found out what Rob was going through—first of all, he's a trooper. He's a fighter, and he's inspired me through this whole thing to continue to do the things that I'm doing, you know, to stay healthy, you know, and not find any excuses whatsoever.”

— Alonzo Mourning

“He's been there if I ever needed anything. If I had any questions or just needed to talk to somebody, he's gone through it. So, it's been nice to just be able to walk upstairs and, you know, pull him aside.”

— Rob Pimental

What’s next

Alonzo Mourning and Rob Pimental plan to continue raising awareness about chronic kidney disease and the need for organ donation, with Mourning using his platform to support Pimental's journey.

The takeaway

Alonzo Mourning's support for Rob Pimental, a Miami Heat staffer battling chronic kidney disease, is a powerful example of how a personal health journey can inspire and empower others facing similar challenges. Their collaboration aims to shed light on the global kidney disease crisis and the importance of organ donation.