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Chris 'Birdman' Andersen presented with Eastern Conference championship trophy

Former Heat star Alonzo Mourning and owner Micky Arison presented the Eastern Conference championship trophy to Chris "Birdman" Andersen at center court after

Former Heat star Alonzo Mourning and owner Micky Arison presented the Eastern Conference championship trophy to Chris "Birdman" Andersen at center court after Miami's 99-76 victory over Indiana in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference finals on Monday.

"It is amazing to hold that [Eastern Conference trophy]," Andersen said. "But I really want to hold up the other [Finals] trophy. I know there is another test at hand."

Andersen, who was suspended for a Game 6 loss after instigating a skirmish with Tyler Hansbrough in Game 5, finished with seven points and five rebounds in 17 minutes in the Heat's decisive win. The tattooed and Mohawked big man has been a fan favorite and X-factor since signing with the defending champions in January. With Andersen in the lineup, Miami has gone 51-6, including 27 consecutive regular-season victories.


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Ben Golliver
BEN GOLLIVER

Ben Golliver is a staff writer for SI.com and has covered the NBA for various outlets since 2007. The native Oregonian and Johns Hopkins University graduate currently resides in Los Angeles.