Mike Phillips of the Miami Herald reports: Alonzo Mourning, who missed most of last season with kidney disease, still takes medication. He admits he is not at full strength. And his stamina in the fourth quarter is not what it once was.

But he has looked stronger and been more productive over his past three games -- averaging 19 points and 9.6 rebounds. His season averages are 14.3 points and 8.2 rebounds, a significant improvement.

In fact, Mourning's numbers the past three games are comparable to his 1999-2000 season (his last full year before kidney problems) averages -- 21.7 points and 9.5 rebounds.

Early this season, opposing players said Mourning looked slower and has less energy. But Mourning's play of late is changing opinions.

``I don't give a [expletive] what players say,'' Mourning said. ``I don't give a [expletive] about what the media says.''

``I'm OK, but I'm not where I want to be,'' Mourning said. ``I knew going into this that there would be obstacles in front of me. I just need to stay on course.

``[But] we have to finish games. It's not about me putting up numbers. It's about this team winning.''