Miami Heat's Chris Silva reduced to tears after mother makes surprise visit to watch him play for first time

Miami Heat center Chris Silva plays in front of his mother for the first time as a collegian or NBA player

The past few months have been full of achievements for Miami Heat center Chris Silva.

After going undrafted in June, he earned a two-way contract with the Heat during the preseason. He then became a fan favorite for resembling Udonis Haslem with his rugged, emotional play. In the next couple of months, he is expected to sign a guaranteed contract.

Still, none of the feats could compare to what transpired Friday after the team’s morning shootaround. Surrounded by teammates and the coaching staff, Silva was reduced to tears when his mother, Carine, greeted him on the court. They hadn’t seen each other in three years.

She made the flight from their native country of Gabon so she could watch him play for the first time as a college or NBA player. Despite not knowing English, Silva moved to the United States in 2012 to pursue a basketball career. His uncle Miguel was the only relative living in the states. Trips home while he was in college at South Carolina were scarce because of the family's financial situation.

The fact Silva had only seen his mother once since leaving the country made the moment even more special. As Carine entered the arena, Heat coach Erik Spoelstra turned to Silva and said, “We have a surprise for you. Merry Christmas, brother.”

“That’s my mom,” Silva said before embracing her with a hug.

Silva has been one of the league’s most remarkable stories. He was supposed to continue his development in the G League this season but made an immediate impression. He needed only a few weeks to become a rotation player. As of Friday, Silva was averaging 3.8 points and 3.6 rebounds in 9.5 minutes.