manynovel Chapter 506 506: Brother's Backstab (3815 words)
Chapter 506 506: Brother's Backstab (3815 words)
Check out my new fanfic.
12th man to Cricket legend. It's a cricket book for cricket lovers only.
Please give it a go 😊
***
On sunday, February 18, 2007, the individual challenge held last night at the Thomas & Mack Center at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, did not attract much attention.
Instead, the local shooting incident became today's headline, with an NFL player involved, and the police ultimately arrested a large number of people.
David Stern of the NBA had no choice but to hold a press conference in advance to dispel rumors, stating that no NBA players were involved in the conflict.
In Friday's Rookie Challenge, David Lee of the New York Knicks made all 14 of his shots, scoring 32 points. While the second-year players won, the Rookie also received the MVP trophy.
This game set multiple records, with the second-year players scoring 78 points in the second half, and Chris Paul personally delivering 17 assists and 9 steals.
In Saturday's Three-Point Contest, Raja Bell lost in the final to Jason Kapono of the Heat, who won the championship with 24 points.
In the Skills Challenge, Kobe Bryant and Dwyane Wade reached the final, but unfortunately, Kobe Bryant missed five chest passes, and Dwyane Wade ultimately won easily with 26.4 seconds to defend his title.
As for the Slam Dunk Contest, Michael Jordan, Dominique Wilkins, Julius Erving, Kobe, and Carter formed a luxurious judging panel, but the final performances were disappointing.
Nate Robinson of the Phoenix Suns took multiple attempts to complete his dunks, and Gerald Green ultimately raised the trophy.
Compared to the result, Kobe's low score for Dwight Howard in the first round was more interesting to the onlookers.
The Rookie directly fired shots after the game:
"Some people bring personal grudges into the game. I don't care about the trophy, but I will respond in the main game!"
"..."
That afternoon was another media interview day.
Compared to Lee, Grant Hill and Pau Gasol, who participated in this year's All-Star Game, were busier.
The former needed to cooperate with ESPN's program, while the latter participated in Spanish TV activities throughout the year.
In his last year of his career, Grant Hill was ready.
He had already received two invitations.
TNT and ESPN both did not want to miss Grant Hill, who had rich championship experience.
TNT invited Grant Hill to join "Inside the NBA," and ESPN offered him a rotating host position for "SportsCenter."
His good looks and excellent reputation made the 34-year-old Grant Hill very popular in another market.
Taking advantage of the media interview opportunity, TNT, as the broadcaster, also brought first-hand news to fans.
Charles Barkley and Kenny Smith looked at the two people beside them and chatted gossipy with smiles:
"We, like the fans, are very curious why the New York Knicks can always select excellent players?"
"Perhaps Grant can answer this question. David Lee didn't have many opportunities in the regular season, but he is indeed a good big man."
Grant Hill, dressed in a formal suit, smiled when he heard this question.
He knew Kenny Smith was talking about the draft issues over the years.
The New York Knicks' atmosphere squad members could all be starters on other teams.
Grant Hill did not hide this and briefly introduced the internal situation:
"From my perspective, the high-quality games of the New York Knicks are the reason everyone grows."
"Playing next to Lee is actually very interesting. He doesn't put pressure on his teammates. They just need to do what they are good at."
"A large number of playoffs accelerated the growth of the players. I am happy for Matt. He performed very well for the Warriors this year, and he brought championship experience to the team."
After Hassell, another member of the atmosphere squad, Matt Barnes also established himself on other teams, which was why Old Miller questioned Clay Lee having too many helpers two days ago.
Charles Barkley saw that Old Miller was silent again, turned his head, and grinningly took over the conversation, also teasing his partner:
"I don't pay much attention to these things. Reggie Miller believes Kobe Bryant is the best scorer in the league. We all know Kobe issued a challenge before the game. What was Lee's reaction to this?"
Among the Western Conference All-Star starters, only Kobe had won a championship.
Although Dirk Nowitzki led the MVP rankings, sports media still promoted the third showdown between Kobe Bryant and Clay Lee.
This gimmick was tried and true, as Duncan and Dirk Nowitzki were not suitable for the All-Star Game.
Kobe was blown out in the Christmas War, suspended for the second battle, and the Lakers had no hope of reaching the Finals, so this All-Star Game would be their last showdown this season.
"I think Lee is willing to accept this challenge."
Grant Hill had only said half of his diplomatic words when Charles Barkley interrupted him with a wide grin and a laugh:
"Don't say that, Grant! From what I know about Lee, he's not interested in Kobe. Tell us what you really think. Lee thrashed Kobe in the Christmas War. How do you usually discuss it?"
"Don't make it difficult for Grant. Do you want him to say that Lee never took Kobe seriously? I know that's the truth, and that's why I don't like him."
The silent Reggie Miller suddenly interjected at this point.
Seeing the three of them grinning widely, he simply let loose and loudly declared to the camera:
"Tonight will be a man's fight. He was beaten down on Christmas, and now Kobe must respond!"
"Don't tell me this is an exhibition game. This is Kobe's last chance this season. I know him. He is a true fighter. He will win back respect with the basketball in his hands."
TNT spared no effort to promote tonight's broadcast.
In addition to the four people on site, many reporters, including Greg Craig Sager, were also hyping it up.
The ratings were not ideal the previous two days, so the main game had to be a big event!
Throughout All-Star Weekend, Kobe had been in an "unhappy" state.
Although Rob Pelinka kept reminding him not to be affected by outside influences, he still couldn't hold back after reading the news.
Before 6 PM, Kobe arrived at the Thomas & Mack Center early, silently changed his clothes, and relaxed his body with the help of a physical therapist.
With an hour left until the game, the locker room gradually became lively.
During the photoshoot, as a championship guard, Kobe unhesitatingly sat in the center, which again displeased a certain championship member.
"I don't need to win a championship; fans all over the world recognize me!"
"Winning a championship is not a one-man job. I realized this a long time ago. A championship is just a trophy to me."
In the locker room, Tracy McGrady, with sleepy eyes, stated his theory in front of reporters.
Looking at this unmotivated superstar, the Chinese sports media watching felt uncomfortable.
Without Yao Ming, the "second person" in front of them would not have received such attention.
Dirk Nowitzki and Duncan, who arrived successively, were still the same.
They always played casually in the All-Star Game every year and did not even look at the surrounded Tracy McGrady.
After changing their clothes, they casually chatted about the schedule:
"Will the Dallas Mavericks make another trade? According to the current situation, you have a chance to get 65 wins."
The honest Duncan's face remained calm, but he felt a little envious after saying this.
After the San Antonio Spurs fell into injuries, the problem of insufficient roster depth was exposed, but this issue could not be resolved.
Dallas sports media had been building momentum for Dirk Nowitzki during this time, urging their star to win MVP.
Currently, the main competitor was Steve Nash.
Although Clay Lee was steadily ranked first, according to previous years' situations, winning multiple Player of the Month awards usually meant being out of the running for MVP.
Tim Duncan had fallen behind, and Dirk Nowitzki was in a good mood.
He ran a hand through his short blonde hair and pretended to be indifferent, saying:
"I don't know, 65 wins is still a bit difficult. Actually, I'd rather have home-court advantage in the playoffs. If we make it to the Finals, I don't want to play two games in New York first."
Dirk Nowitzki's words silenced Kevin Garnett, who had just entered the locker room.
The two honest guys were subtly showing off, and he couldn't respond to that.
The Timberwolves were struggling just to make the playoffs.
Fortunately, Tracy McGrady and Kobe Bryant were his good brothers in the locker room.
Kevin Garnett saw Kobe, with a long face, come before everyone and passionately said:
"Hey! We have to help Kobe win this game..."
Despite the cameras present, Amare Stoudemire, leaning back in his seat, still didn't give the Wolf King any face, looking up and casually responding:
"I also want to win AMVP. I wasn't picked for the All-Star Game just to watch you guys perform!"
Deron Williams and Josh Howard were both Rookies, and they whispered to themselves, not participating in the conversation at all.
Parker and Carlos Boozer were the same.
The former had already proposed to Eva and was just there for a vacation, while the latter was injured and had decided to be part of the atmosphere squad.
As for Marion and Ray Allen, they quietly watched the show and had no intention of participating in tonight's "struggle."
Soon, the elder brother Kevin Garnett started yelling with Amare Stoudemire.
Although they were teammates, they trash-talked each other.
The 81-point scorer was only talking to Tracy McGrady.
Ray Allen watched the locker room atmosphere turn chaotic and then glanced at the shaking Kevin Garnett:
"The invitation was indeed problematic."
Danny Ainge was secretly active with Pierce this weekend.
After Kevin Garnett confirmed he would not leave the Timberwolves before the trade deadline, Danny Ainge quietly found Ray Allen.
After painting a grand picture, Ray Allen did not immediately agree.
He would remain with the Seattle SuperSonics until the trade deadline.
Kevin Garnett didn't know someone was secretly observing him.
"How many rings do you have?" almost made him lose his composure on the spot.
In the Eastern Conference All-Star locker room, Clay Lee arrived very late.
He had participated in Michael Jordan's gambling game last night and then rushed to catch up on sleep after attending the press conference in the afternoon.
Dwyane Wade, dressed in the Eastern Conference All-Star's white and blue jersey, was constantly saying "Bro."
Chris Bosh, making his first All-Star appearance, still had his buzz cut and watched his friend's performance with some restraint.
In the physical therapy room, everyone went forward to greet Lee.
LeBron James immediately defected, suddenly transforming into a sycophant, and seriously suggested:
"Tonight, we have to help Clay Lee win the game!"
Dwight Howard also stopped looking at Dwyane Wade at this moment and immediately responded, his voice filled with excitement:
"That's right, we must show that guy who gave me an 8-point score!"
Ron Artest looked exhausted.
He had been spending money like crazy with his family and friends all weekend and hadn't paid attention to outside news.
Hearing the two of them, he exclaimed in surprise:
"Shit! Were you guys planning to lose earlier?"
Gilbert Arenas and Carter were already consumed by envy, and they followed suit, expressing their determination.
Hamilton and Jermaine O'Neal looked bewildered at the agitated locker room.
Everything had been fine during the photo shoot.
Pau Gasol and Grant Hill were also dumbfounded at this point.
LeBron James had been happily discussing with his friend how many points he would score tonight, but now he had a sudden change of expression.
"Relax, guys! We're here to enjoy the game, don't take the media's words to heart."
Lee leaned back in his seat and waved his hand.
This was his 11th All-Star Game, and he had seen enough hype to no longer feel any animosity.
His heart filled with joy, Dwyane Wade wanted to speak again to ask for everyone's help, but LeBron James, after putting on his headband, seriously suggested:
"Grant and I can play as point forwards, Lee only needs to focus on scoring."
Watching his good friend actively arrange things, everyone responded enthusiastically.
For a moment, Dwyane Wade felt sour again, secretly glaring at his friend.
They hadn't said that before.
At 6:50 PM, the Thomas & Mack Center was filled with nearly 17,000 fans.
TNT's promotion still worked.
After two disappointing days, many fans still had high hopes for the main game.
After the singing segment ended, the camera focused on Alvin Gentry and Mike DAntoni on the sidelines, both wearing identical red scarves.
Both were smiling and waiting for the game to begin.
"Coach DAntoni's tactics are sweeping the NBA. I don't think anyone questions his basketball philosophy anymore."
"No matter how many times I watch it, I'm always amazed. His use of Lee has reached another level this season."
At the TNT commentary desk, Doug Collins praised him again, while Steve Kerr took the opportunity to talk about this year's Phoenix Suns:
"I don't like the 'imitation' comment. The fact is, the New York Knicks have achieved unparalleled success, and Alvin Gentry has simply absorbed championship experience."
"I like this Phoenix Suns team, maybe this year they have a chance to break through."
The two Head Coaches' tactical philosophies were fundamentally the same, and this was the first time such a situation had occurred in an All-Star Game.
After all, star Head Coaches have their own swagger, and imitation is not common.
As the camera moved to the center of the court, it captured the New York Knicks-colored orange and blue new sneakers on Lee's feet.
The director didn't let Kobe off either, and the camera quickly cut to the serious face of the Black Mamba.
Cheers began to rise.
Dwight Howard jumped too early and was easily tipped by the calm Duncan.
Tracy McGrady received the ball and dribbled past half-court.
Seeing Grant Hill in front of him, he decisively passed the ball to Kobe.
Quickly popping out to the right wing, Kobe received the ball and saw Lee give up a step and raise his right arm.
He didn't choose to shoot directly but instead put the ball down with his right hand and drove strongly.
In an exhibition game, Lee would naturally cooperate with the broadcast.
Amidst the excited cheers of the fans, Kobe, after being intercepted, began to back down.
Putting all his strength into two backdowns, squeezing from the restricted area to near the paint, the serious Kobe turned towards the baseline and successfully made a signature fadeaway jumper!
"Come on! That's it!"
Kevin Garnett excitedly pumped his fists, hitting himself twice, shouting towards Lee, and high-fiving Kobe in celebration.
His good brother Tracy McGrady also went up and bumped fists with Kobe.
Although the bench players were disobedient, there were more of their own starters.
Kobe, retreating on Defense, finally smiled, clapped his hands, and stared at Lee running past half-court.
Grant Hill, who was dribbling, waved to LeBron James at this point.
Noticing the two big men stopped near the elbow, LeBron James understood this was an off-ball screen play.
Thanks to Van Gundy's guidance, the two teams' tactics had many overlaps.
When LeBron James moved off-ball towards the right wing, Clay Lee also began to cut horizontally off-ball.
Crossing positions, the symbolic screen didn't have much effect.
As Grant Hill passed the ball from the top of the arc, Lee immediately received it on the left wing.
Unlike Lee's symbolic 'uh-huh' Defense, Kobe lowered his center of gravity and stuck close, actively initiating body contact, while constantly interfering with his hands.
Lee, who originally intended to casually put the ball down, had to quickly sweep the ball.
As he protected the ball behind his left side, he looked at the glaring Kobe and whispered:
"Looks like you're serious!"
"..."
Confidently turning his body, Kobe remained silent, focusing on Defense, trying to force Lee to use his left hand.
He was very confident in his Defense.
Amidst the jeers of the fans, the moment Lee put the ball down with his left hand, he immediately lunged and accelerated.
Kobe slid back to the right in time, but was almost thrown off balance by the extremely fast crossover pull-back.
As the basketball returned to his right hand, Lee raised his center of gravity.
When Kobe stuck to him again, he dribbled behind his back repeatedly.
The slightly flashy moves and suddenly increased dribbling speed made Kobe feel uneasy.
When he reached out to interfere, Lee changed direction between his legs again.
The moment Lee feinted his body to the left front to deceive the opponent's center of gravity, he changed direction in front of his body again.
The bent-over Kobe watched helplessly as the basketball disappeared from in front of him.
"Oh!"
Rich defensive experience made Kobe quickly move to the left rear.
Amidst the fans' screams, Lee, holding the ball in his right hand and feigning a drive, pulled back with a crossover again.
Unable to close out, Kobe watched Lee step back and shoot a fadeaway jumper from beyond the three-point line, suddenly recalling Phil Jackson's warning from back then:
"Don't let him dribble to find his rhythm."
On the court, Grant Hill and Pau Gasol didn't even look at the rim, having already turned their backs and raised their hands in celebration.
The basketball went swish, and Little Beard on the sidelines also grinned, raising both hands.
The game had entered Lee's rhythm early.
In regular season games, there were simply not that many opportunities for such flashy dribbling.
With everyone intentionally feeding him the ball, Kobe scored by forcing shots, only to be outplayed on the next possession.
The intensity of the game for others was not high.
As Lee completely warmed up and began to increase his intensity, Kobe's face grew darker and darker as the game progressed.
With 6 minutes and 58 seconds left in the first quarter, Kobe tried to use Kevin Garnett's screen to shake off Lee, wrapping the ball behind his back to his left hand, but was perfectly intercepted by the agile Lee who squeezed through.
The moment their bodies collided, Kobe didn't protect the ball with his side as usual.
He seemed to want to show off his dribbling skills.
The moment he stopped abruptly and dribbled behind his back to his right hand, the ball was poked away.
Losing control of the ball, Kobe frantically tried to steal it back.
Clay Lee reacted even faster, poking the ball away again and casually tossing it forward.
LeBron James again shook off Kevin Garnett, moving incredibly fast.
After scooping up the ball, he accelerated at full speed, glanced behind him, and instead of dunking again, he rushed into the paint directly in front of the rim and tossed the ball into the air.
Kobe, chasing back at full speed, helplessly watched Lee shake him off and scoop the ball in mid-air, finally having to stop.
Holding the ball in his right hand, Lee swung his arm to the side, stretching his body in the air.
After a brief suspension, he swung his arm and slammed it down!
"Oh!"
22:14, the fans in the front row stood up and cheered.
On the bench, Dwyane Wade forced a smile, watching LeBron James actively go up and bump fists with Clay Lee, complaining helplessly in his heart:
"You said you'd let me win the award!"
...
By the way, don't forget to throw power stones and leave a review to motivate me :)