Grant Long, a 6'8" power forward for a total of 15 NBA seasons, was an original member of the Heat, although not part of the starting five that first night in 1988. Born in Wayne, MI on March 12th, 1966, he attended nearby Romulus High at the prep level, and played his collegiate basketball at Eastern Michigan University. He played four seasons, and as a senior averaged 23 points, 10.4 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game. Miami made him a second round selection prior to their first season, with the 33rd overall pick.
As a rookie, Long led the Heat with 82 games, starting in his final 73 appearances.