Is the dream becoming real?

Several years ago, Pat Riley was welcomed here in South Florida among the pomp and circumstance that a befits an NBA coach. Well, one that is a high-profile, Armani suit-wearing, motivational speaker such as Riley. And during his address to the crowd, he proclaimed his dream: a parade for a world champion Miami Heat team running throughout downtown Miami while the ticker tapes fell from the sky in celebration.

Thunder Dan rained threes. Keith Askins played tough defense off the bench. Alonzo Mourning's intensity ignited the crowd and powered the team to win after win. But all came and went. Even Timmy Hardaway's heart wasnt enough to loft the trophy out of Riley's mind.

But he we are again. After a terrific young team climbed its way out of the cellar to the playoffs taking on the world as it went. After the promise of that season, another was made and wrapped in sacrifice. He we are again, on the verge of realizing Riley's dream. The architect, in order to realize his dream, had to make a deal that he couldn't have imagined in his wildest dreams.

Armed with Diesel Power in Shaq and a top-flight talent in Dwyane Wade, this new Heat team has the look, the feel of a champion. And they are only getting better. Ask journey man Damon Jones. Or ask Christian Laettner, a former college great that hasnt had the chance to shine - until now. Or ask Eddie Jones - the much maligned team captain that has only begun to rediscover his game while the Heat have discovered winning.

This Heat team plays poised. Never panics. And the media is starting to notice. Mark Jackson made his proclamation in support of the Heat on ESPN. Others are falling in line. But is the dream becoming real? Does this Heat team - with its mix of young talent and heady veterans - have the ability to win it all? Can this be the team Riley dreamed of?

Let's find out...