Heat Fans Get Creative With Rituals
MIAMI (CBS4)-As the Miami Heat prepare to tip off against the Dallas Mavericks in Game 6 of the NBA finals, some die hard Miami fans are performing some unusual rituals hoping to bring the Heat to victory.
At the Botanica Pet Shop El Viejo Lazaro, owner Nelson Hernandez said he has seen at least 400 to 500 customers looking for supplies to perform voodoo or santeria rituals in support of the Heat.
He illustrated the ritual placing some herbs for good luck. Next, he inserted three sticks of incense into a mango and lit them on fire.
"Try to protect, you know, the three best players," he said.
"Bosh Wade and James?" asked CBS 4's Tiffani Helberg.
"Yes we're protecting them with this, yes, it's for protection," said Hernandez.
Hernandez displayed a small African statue of a warrior holding a spear. Hernandez explained that the statue represents a strong defense.
Finally he laid three white voodoo dolls on the table next to the other items.
"You know everything is in white," he smiled.
Customer Sangode Lowe was in the store stocking up on supplies before Sunday's big game.
"Of course, I want them to win," said Lowe. "By any means necessary we're talking this is war! Miami's got to win."
Some fans wear jerseys, others paint their bodies in the teams colors.
Here in Miami, some fanatics believe religious rituals can only help.
Hernandez said none of the rituals are aimed at hurting the Mavericks.
"It's a good energy, it's nothing bad," he said.
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