Ron Culp Retires

His banner is now hanging atop the American Airlines Arena but it might seem a bit lonely tonight for retiring Heat head trainer Ron Culp. Two years ago, he lost his wife to cancer, and it sure must be bitter sweet for Culp who has given 20 years to the Heat organization with his caring hands.

He has seen every injury in the franchise's history up close. He has been there to tend to a sprained ankle, a dislocated shoulder, or to help a player off the floor after tearing up his ACL or MCL.

And now, the Heat are giving something back to him, by naming their training facility the "Culp Room" they are commemorating the man who essentially built it.

It was a classy move for an organization that is down in the dumps these days. But win or lose, Ron Culp was there for Miami when it was in its most pain, and tonight he leaves it so the franchise can find its own way to mend. But this problem is not Culp's to fix or patch up. No ointment, bandaid or tape will help this team pick up from where it left. Yet, like a bookend, the Heat complete their 20th season right where they started - with 15 wins and with a new guy in the training room.

A bitter sweet win for Miami, but no less a perfect time for Ron Culp to hang it up. Thanks for the years of service, Culp.