Who is the Miami Heat's mascot?

Miami Heat's Mascot
Miami Heat's Mascot Burnie, Source: Getty images

The experience of watching a Miami Heat game is incomplete without watching their beloved flame, Burnie. Burnie is the official mascot of the Heat and is known for his ability to fire up the crowd during games. He is a funny and lovable mascot who was designed by the team’s owner, Ted Arison. He is a 7 foot tall fireball whose nose is a green basketball.


Burnie made his debut in 1988 and besides performing in games, Burnie also represents the Heat culture in charity events and schools. The Heat also have another mascot named Burnie Jr., who was introduced in 2014 and has become very popular amongst fans.



Miami Heat's Mascot
Miami Heat's Mascot, Image credit: Getty images

Burnie Real Name

According to NBAmacots.com, Burnie has been portrayed by Chris Brown since 2011. He is a Miami Heat dancer and a full time employee of the organization. While exact NBA mascot salaries are not available, it is estimated that he may earn between $50,000 and $60,000 per annum.


During the 2022/23 season, Burnie was knocked out cold by mixed martial artist McGregor, who was promoting his pain relief spray. The fight between McGregor and Burnie was planned as a skit. However, as per multiple reports, the mascot actor got injured in the process and was sent home.


What is the Burnie mascot supposed to be?

Burnie is a furry red fireball who is known for his dance moves and hooping during breaks and timeouts. He is an anthropomorphic representation of fire as shown on the team’s logo. He is usually seen wearing a black Miami Heat jersey with #00.


FAQs

Q. Who plays Burnie in the Miami Heat?

A. Chris Brown plays Burnie.

Q. What is Burnie the mascot supposed to be?

A. Burnie is an anthropomorphic illustration of a fireball, as shown on the Miami Heat logo.

Q. Why did the Heat mascot get punched?

A. Conor McGregor was on the court promoting his new pain relief spray. He came to announce his partnership with the Miami Heat team and punched Burnie twice, which was all part of a skit.

Q. Why do mascot costumes not overheat?

A. There is a small device on the mascot’s costume that pushes air out and pulls fresh air in, creating cross ventilation to keep them cool.