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Dragon Emperor in Pokemon World.
The return of Itachi
I am Sasuke. Why should I defect from Konoha.
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***
Amar'e Stoudemire's agent, Jeff Schwartz, was even more active during the playoffs.
The 41-year-old Schwartz favored navy blue suits and always maintained a refined, sharp short haircut in front of the media.
His past experience as a judicial assistant to a federal bankruptcy judge in Los Angeles and as a lawyer in a commercial litigation department made him exude confidence.
In 1992, Schwartz began his sports management career, and in a 2000 Tennis Magazine poll, he was ranked the 15th most influential person in tennis.
In 2002, Schwartz founded Excel Sports Management, a full-service basketball management and marketing company that has been developing rapidly in recent years!
As a basketball agent, Schwartz currently lacks a standout superstar.
He urgently needs a success story.
The development of the NBA drives the rise of different agencies.
In the 90s, David Falk made a killing with Michael Jordan.
In 2000, Mark Bartelstein's Priority Sports agency also began its crazy harvesting journey in the basketball field, thanks to Clay Lee.
Unlike the early NBA, players' salaries are getting higher and higher, and agencies naturally won't give up such a market.
Ambitious ones have already started competing off the court.
The Goodwin Brothers secured LeBron James, and in just two seasons, they've already made a fortune!
With endorsement contracts totaling over $100 million, the agents naturally received substantial returns.
To make his company famous, Schwartz had been encouraging Amar'e Stoudemire to fight for a starting spot.
A true superstar would never be a substitute.
No matter how high his tactical position, a starter is always a starter, representing more attention.
What frustrated Schwartz was the New York Knicks' strong veteran basketball atmosphere!
Role players like Kurt Thomas managed to overshadow Amar'e Stoudemire.
If it weren't for injuries on the New York Knicks, Schwartz felt his player would never get a chance.
Fortunately, opportunities are for those who are prepared.
With Tim Duncan and Pau Gasol both entering the injury list after Game 2, Schwartz felt their chance had come.
On Friday, June 10th, the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs had both flown to San Antonio.
Tomorrow night will be Game 3 of the Finals. San Antonio Spurs fans felt this situation was familiar.
They had entered a do-or-die stage.
Schwartz, still in Manhattan, once again promoted his player.
Without waiting for the New York Media to interview him, Schwartz went to them.
He had just left the Tarrytown Training Center that morning and proactively revealed information to reporters:
"Don't worry about injuries. Amare, entering the starting lineup, can handle the San Antonio Spurs' interior!"
"He's a beast. No one in the NBA can stop him."
"Often, offense is the best Defense. Amare is indeed not the next Kevin Garnett. In my opinion, his offensive talent far surpasses this MVP!"
New York Post reporters had heard such boasting more than once.
In fact, everyone wasn't worried about the Finals.
Instead, they were more concerned about Amar'e Stoudemire's future:
"Jeff, we're old friends. Have you reached an agreement with Grunfeld?"
"Next season, will we still be able to see Amar'e Stoudemire at Madison Square Garden?"
Hearing the question, Schwartz smiled but didn't give a definitive answer:
"After three seasons, I think New York fans clearly understand Amare's talent."
"Our first choice is always the New York Knicks. No one would refuse to play for a championship team, especially since next year is a team option."
"However, I still have to speak for my player. He needs a starting position, more playing time, and more shot attempts."
"These are all reasonable requests, because Amare can help the team!"
"Continuing to be a substitute will only waste his talent. In my opinion, Amare is an MVP-level player. After his Rookie season, he will enter a period of rapid growth."
"..."
Not getting a more definite answer, the New York Media was somewhat disappointed.
Regarding Amar'e Stoudemire, everyone still hoped that their homegrown Rookie could continue to play for New York.
But if internal team issues arose, the media and fans' opinions were also very consistent:
"Trade him early for talent more suitable for the New York Knicks!"
A team's shot attempts are limited.
Fans hope to see Clay Lee take 24+ shots in a game, which already occupies nearly 1/3 of the shot attempts.
The remaining shot attempts for other players are limited.
Considering that Hill and Artest will return next season, the ball is already somewhat insufficient.
Schwartz, of course, understood this.
He just wanted to take his player to a more suitable team.
The new team must be able to make the playoffs, and the coaching staff needs to promise unlimited shot attempts.
To play out the last year of the Rookie contract with perfect stats, and ultimately use that impressive Excel sheet to secure a max contract.
If possible, winning an MVP would be even better.
Looking at the sports reporters whispering in front of him, Schwartz once again showed a confident expression:
"Believe me, in Game 3, Amare will explode. He's already starting to fulfill his talent!"
"..."
Mark Bartelstein was somewhat dissatisfied with Excel Sports.
Their poaching behavior within the New York Knicks affected his interests.
Schwartz not only wanted to build Amar'e Stoudemire into an MVP-level player but also wanted to bring role players under his wing.
At the same time, the other party also offered package deals to the New York Knicks.
As long as Grunfeld asked, Excel Sports would try its best to meet the demand, actively acting as a pimp to recommend players.
Such services still had subtle differences from traditional basketball agencies, but Mark Bartelstein knew that if it developed smoothly, Schwartz would definitely succeed.
On the evening of the 10th, Lee, back at the hotel, listened to his old friend's complaints and also teased:
"Package deals are great. If your players can meet the team's needs, Grunfeld won't mind cooperating with you."
Bartelstein, still in his Chicago office, looked at the list on his computer, speechless for a moment, and tried to say to Lee on the phone:
"If the New York Knicks choose to trade, you seem to be missing a promising big man."
"Does Kwame Brown meet your requirements? You know, he only suffered an injury this year."
"Well, I talked to him. Actually, he doesn't want to play for the Washington Wizards anymore. Even if the management offered a decent contract, Brown insisted on leaving Washington."
Lee almost forgot about this minor player, but upon hearing such a recommendation, he could only clear his throat and subtly refuse:
"Brown's rebounding is too poor. He's not suitable for a championship contending team."
"However, I think he could go play in Los Angeles. The Lakers are in a rebuilding phase, and they should be eager for an excellent big man."
"I think Kwame Brown will also fall in love with that city. You know, playing in Los Angeles gets more attention, and at the same time, they are also very generous."
Mark Bartelstein was first a bit regretful, then felt that Lee's words made sense.
Los Angeles is a good place.
Playing there can also gain extra attention.
If handled well, Kwame Brown has no reason to refuse:
"This is indeed a good idea. I need to communicate with Kwame Brown. He should like Los Angeles."
"Lee, Grunfeld seems to be in trouble. When we met at the end of last month, he had lost a lot of weight. Perhaps there is a problem with your management."
Listening to the news on the phone, Lee was full of questions.
James Dolan had no chance to interfere with the team this season and had been feuding with City Hall.
The curly-haired boss wasn't causing trouble, the team's performance was excellent, and everyone inside was relaxed, so there were no annoying issues:
"Perhaps he just had a stomach flu. Losing some weight isn't a bad thing!"
"..."
On the morning of June 11th, Bloomberg News suddenly broke a shocking piece of news:
"An MSG executive accused General Manager Grunfeld of sexual harassment."
The related report was very brief, only stating that the harassment began during the New York Knicks' China tour for the preseason.
This news quickly swept through New York, and media reporters, eager for gossip, immediately rushed to the Tarrytown Training Center, attempting to interview the parties involved.
The New York Knicks, of course, refused interviews.
Sexual harassment is not a minor matter.
It would affect MSG's image.
In the afternoon, James Dolan, who remained in Manhattan, angrily accepted an interview, stating with great certainty:
"This is blatant slander! The Bloomberg News report is completely fabricated."
"The Westside Stadium project has embarrassed some people, and they are retaliating against the Dolan Family. We will not compromise!"
The New York Knicks team in San Antonio was also somewhat bewildered when they saw the news:
"During the China tour's Summer League, did this happen?"
Once sexual harassment is involved, not only the New York Knicks but also the NBA will speak out and intervene.
Although the news had not yet been confirmed, sports media also went wild with the gossip, eager to interview the players immediately.
Lee didn't pay attention at first, until Ewing awkwardly revealed something to him:
"It's not just executives involved. The cheerleaders also participated in the party."
The Gorilla also showed an awkward expression.
Although both parties were consensual at the time, he couldn't be sure now if anyone would come forward to expose him.
It should be known that the Kobe Bryant's alleged sexual assault case had just cooled down, and now the New York Knicks had another sexual harassment case.
David Stern would definitely not be pleased.
Hearing Ewing's account, Lee finally recalled the arrangements for the China tour.
To ensure an authentic game experience, the cheerleaders did accompany the team, and relevant administrative staff also participated in the preseason.
The New York Knicks, who were warming up early, did not accept interviews at this time.
Lee looked at Ewing, who had a troubled expression and appeared worried, and could only comfort him by saying:
"More than half a year has passed. There's no reason for anyone to come forward and accuse you now."
Ewing shook his head.
Although the Gorilla had gotten fat, his brain wasn't filled with fat:
"You underestimate media reporters too much. This matter will quickly escalate, and there's a high probability it will even affect you."
"If nothing unexpected happens, these sports media will also dig up old dirt. In short, if someone wants to see related news, someone will desperately report it."
Lee knew Ewing was referring to the incident where Michael Jordan's affair was deeply investigated by the media back then, but he was a bachelor and didn't care about such reports at all.
Most of the New York Knicks players were also following the gossip.
Pau Gasol would still start tonight, but his playing time wouldn't be too much.
Mike D'Antoni was still unsure if Tim Duncan would continue to play tonight.
The San Antonio Spurs did an excellent job of keeping things secret, but the coaching staff could also guess their game strategy.
In Game 2, the New York Knicks' role players performed very well, forcing the San Antonio Spurs to change their defensive formations from time to time.
Clay Lee would most likely still face intense double-teaming in the first half, so at this point, everyone needed to complete the 4-on-3 play and seize open shot opportunities.
Pau Gasol, who was warming up, was receiving instructions from Assistant Coach Mike Malone:
"If you feel discomfort in your foot, try to receive the ball closer to the free-throw line."
"When our wing players get an opportunity, pass the ball decisively. The opponent's rotation speed is very fast, and playing at home, the referees will also favor them."
Pau Gasol was already familiar with such tactical arrangements, but he was also very clear about his teammates' abilities:
"If we fail to seize those open opportunities, should we still stick to the same tactics?"
Mike Malone naturally knew what Pau Gasol was referring to.
Raja Bell and Tayshaun Prince's shooting was sometimes unreliable.
Once they missed shots, players would instinctively attack the rim, and the San Antonio Spurs would definitely keep Tim Duncan under the basket.
Besides taking care of his foot injury, the more important reason was their belief in Tim Duncan's rim protection ability.
This was a strategic gamble, and Gregg Popovich failed in the first two games.
"We are the leading side, believe in each other, and don't put too much pressure on yourselves. The San Antonio Spurs are more nervous than us."
Mike Malone responded in a low voice, looking at Raja Bell, who was still actively warming up beyond the three-point line.
He somewhat missed Ron Artest and Hill.
Driving to the basket for free throws was actually a better option.
On the evening of the 11th, as the San Antonio Spurs officially confirmed that Tim Duncan would continue to start, San Antonio fans completely relaxed.
If they lost their main player, they would most likely lose the game tonight.
The game officially started at 8 PM, and an hour before the game, the SBC Center was already bustling.
Gregg Popovich had been very quiet these past two days, not revealing much information to the media, and San Antonio Spurs players rarely accepted interviews.
Before the game, when Tim Duncan entered the arena, he was surrounded by sports media before even entering the player tunnel:
"Tim Duncan, after two consecutive games with large-margin losses, will the team make adjustments tonight?"
Wearing a loose white shirt, Duncan's steps seemed very light, and he answered questions with great confidence:
"No, we will stick to our previous game strategy. I liked everyone's performance in Game 2."
"..."
Tim Duncan didn't say much, but most reporters confirmed that the San Antonio Spurs' injury information was likely a smokescreen.
Before the game began, ABC, as the broadcaster, also started playing some interview footage for the viewers watching at home.
When viewers saw Gregg Popovich on screen, they all felt that the Coach of the Year (COY) was not an undeserved title.
"No one understands how strong the New York Knicks are better than us!"
"The purpose of basketball is to put the ball in the basket, and Clay Lee makes the game simple."
"Before this, Clay Lee scored 50+ points four times in the Finals, which helped them easily defeat the Lakers."
"I admire him, but basketball is a game for five people. If he scores 50 points against the San Antonio Spurs, that means our opportunity has come."
"The San Antonio Spurs are completely different from most teams in the NBA. We have a selfless leader. I hope everyone can believe in Tim Duncan. He will bring a championship to this city!"
Gregg Popovich's eyes were red as he spoke before the camera.
Perhaps it was superb acting, or maybe he was recalling his experience of almost being fired.
The relationship between Tim Duncan and Gregg Popovich is excellent, and the Head Coach's genuine emotions deeply moved the fans watching on television.
Perhaps this is the pure basketball of San Antonio.
Game 2 ended, and Clay Lee scored 50+ points for the 5th time in his career in the Finals, once again breaking his own record.
Major sports media naturally reported frantically these past two days, and Gregg Popovich's prediction became a widely discussed topic among many fans.
20,000 people poured into the SBC Center.
For San Antonio Spurs fans, tonight was a life-and-death battle, and they were determined to contribute energy to their home team!
After the game started at 8 PM, the shouting never stopped.
Fans erupted with immense enthusiasm, constantly cheering loudly for the San Antonio Spurs.
However, the game itself made the fans anxious.
The San Antonio Spurs were shooting terribly!
Fortunately, as time passed, the New York Knicks also failed to capitalize on open shots.
Before halftime, Raja Bell lacked confidence and frequently passed the ball back to Lee.
The wide-open corner shots were not taken in time, which also caused the New York Knicks' offensive rhythm to slow down.
The San Antonio Spurs, who were bricking three-pointers, fought desperately on the defensive end.
As long as the ball was passed back, Lee was still met with a double-team.
The seesaw score made the San Antonio Spurs players even more nervous.
Fortunately, Tony Parker's pick-and-roll long twos finally warmed up tonight.
Before halftime, Brent Barry, who came off the bench, hit a crucial three-pointer from the right corner!
"Ah!"
The San Antonio Spurs fans at the arena screamed along, many feeling as if they could lose the game at any moment.
52:53, the San Antonio Spurs ended the half with a one-point lead.
Stuart Scott, dressed in a suit, adjusted his glasses and immediately interviewed Gregg Popovich.
The immense noise in the SBC Center made the sideline reporter instinctively raise his voice:
"Is the coaching staff satisfied with the San Antonio Spurs' performance in the first half?"
Gregg Popovich's voice was hoarse from shouting.
The game was heart-wrenching to watch, but at this moment, he could only confidently brag:
"Everyone perfectly executed the game strategy set before the game. For us, this was a perfect half!"
The GDP trio performed steadily, combining for 38 points, playing very efficiently.
Aside from shooting 2-for-8 from beyond the arc, the San Antonio Spurs' first-half performance was impeccable.
In the New York Knicks locker room, Amare Stoudemire was exceptionally excited, as he had predicted, he got more opportunities.
Shooting 7-for-13 in the first half, 2-for-4 from the free-throw line, with 16 points, 5 rebounds, and 1 turnover, Amare Stoudemire had clearly become the team's second scoring option with these statistics.
When the outside shooters showed hesitation, the New York Knicks, with Amare Stoudemire on the court, entered a mode of individual isolation plays.
Clay Lee passed the ball to Amare Stoudemire, who would only pass it back when absolutely necessary.
Considering the 3-for-11 performance from beyond the arc in the first half, the coaching staff tacitly approved Amare Stoudemire's offensive choices.
Despite facing tight Defense, Lee's statistics were not significantly affected.
7-for-12 from the field, 1-for-3 from three-point range, 4-for-4 from the free-throw line, with 19 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1 steal.
Realizing Raja Bell had become unconfident, Lee encouraged him again before going on court:
"We need to speed up. If you miss, then go for the rebound."
"Basketball is actually very simple: if you miss, you grab the rebound. You can't be too cautious in front of opponents. That will only allow them to punish you."
Raja Bell nodded quickly.
If it were the regular season, he would have no psychological burden, but the Finals stage still affected his mental state.
After the second half began, both teams still couldn't find their shooting touch from beyond the arc.
It wasn't until the end of the 3rd quarter that Bruce Bowen and Robert Horry, who was 0-for-4 in the first half, finally capitalized on open opportunities.
The turning point of the game came in the latter half of the 4th quarter.
With 3 minutes and 21 seconds left in the game, Kurt Thomas was forced to foul out.
Tim Duncan's relentless low-post attacks paid off, but his two missed free throws chilled the hearts of the San Antonio Spurs fans by half.
Amare Stoudemire, who had just entered the game as a substitute, had a rebound snatched over his head by Tim Duncan, and then Robert Horry hit a three-pointer from the right corner.
Robert Horry, who had been bricking shots earlier, seemed to have suddenly found his rhythm, subsequently taking consecutive contested three-pointers from the left wing.
Three consecutive three-pointers finally allowed the San Antonio Spurs to extend their lead to 5 points.
Gregg Popovich wished he could rush onto the court to double-team Lee with his players.
Although Amare Stoudemire was still scoring, Manu Ginobili's free throws allowed the San Antonio Spurs to escape a close call.
As Clay Lee's forced three-pointer missed in the final moments, the score was set at 102:105.
The SBC Center erupted completely.
The moment the game ended, Tim Duncan excitedly hugged Robert Horry, shouting happily:
"We won! You are our hero tonight."
Shooting 4-for-5 in the quarter, 3-for-4 from three-point range, and 2-for-2 from the free-throw line, Robert Horry's 13 points saved the team while Tony Parker went cold.
Amare Stoudemire was a bit disappointed.
He had played very well, but the team still lost.
Mike D'Antoni shook hands with Gregg Popovich at the scorer's table.
The two didn't exchange many words, as no one likes to see the winner's smiling face.
On both sides of the player tunnel, San Antonio Spurs fans saw Lee walk by with a calm expression and started to jeer:
"Scumbag!"
Perhaps the news of Scarlett and Kim both being pregnant was dug up by some media, and San Antonio Spurs fans began attacking Lee's personal life.
Although losing was a bit regrettable, what the New York Knicks players regretted more was failing to sweep their opponents and achieve another 16:0 record.
San Antonio Spurs fans were clearly overjoyed.
When Lee and his teammates boarded the bus to return to the hotel, they were even surrounded by fans.
Lee was the last to get on the bus, sitting with the coaching staff in the front.
Mike D'Antoni actually had a contingency plan for games where shots weren't falling, but it involved some risks.
As soon as he sat down, Lee heard Mike D'Antoni whisper beside him:
"Tonight I indeed made the wrong choice. Perhaps I should consider letting Derek play longer."
"Lee, what do you think about lowering the lineup's height?"
After trying it for a season, Mike D'Antoni still wanted to try his crazy experiment on a bigger stage.
The coaching staff remained silent, as this was the Finals.
If they lost one more game, the New York Media, accustomed to winning, might "tear them apart."
Looking at Mike D'Antoni's expectant eyes, Lee smiled, a different emotion stirring in his heart:
"You're the Boss. You decide the tactics. I'll support you fully!"
The bus was still slowly moving.
The San Antonio Spurs fans surrounding it didn't know the New York Knicks were planning an "experiment."
Many fans were still savoring the victory:
"Knicks get out of San Antonio!"
"..."
.....
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