Check out my new fanfics.
Dragon Emperor in Pokemon World.
The return of Itachi
I am Sasuke. Why should I defect from Konoha.
Please give it a go 😊
***
May 17, 2006, Wednesday morning, the NBA announced the 2005-06 All-NBA Teams:
The All-NBA First Team consisted of 5 players:
Clay Lee, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Dirk Nowitzki, and Shaquille O'Neal.
The All-NBA Second Team consisted of 5 players:
Chauncey Billups, Dwyane Wade, Tim Duncan, Pau Gasol, and Ben Wallace.
The All-NBA Third Team consisted of 5 players:
Steve Nash, Gilbert Arenas, Ron Artest, Shawn Marion, and Elton Brand.
After the list was announced, Allen Iverson, who was second in the scoring list this season, unfortunately missed out, and his depression might worsen.
Grant Hill regrettably missed out due to injuries and playing fewer than 60 games.
Spurs fans were naturally unhappy after seeing the news.
The reigning MVP was only on the Second Team?
This was blatant humiliation!
Anthony, who also missed out, immediately expressed his dissatisfaction.
Although 44 wins was an average record, he had led his team to a division title after an 18-year hiatus.
After achieving such a feat, he didn't even make the Third Team?
Unfortunately, complaints were useless, and the NBA would not re-evaluate.
If they were unhappy, they could only wait until next season to prove themselves.
In addition to the All-NBA Team news, recent gossip revealed by the Chicago Tribune also attracted attention.
Magic Johnson admitted to media reporters that he might team up with two good friends to buy a team, and he spoke candidly about his plans:
"If there's a suitable team, we'll make a move!"
"For us, working together is the best scenario. Michael Jordan can handle basketball operations, and Charles can handle sponsors. He's good with people."
"If someone needs to speak sternly within the team, that can also be left to me."
Magic Johnson had revealed related news more than once on TNT, and his words sounded very reasonable.
However, Michael Jordan running a team reminded many people of the failed Washington Wizards.
New York sports media didn't care about these things.
Ever since it was revealed that the Chicago Bulls might trade Tyson Chandler, many reporters had reined themselves in.
After all, Chicago had received a championship guard back then, laying the foundation for their dynasty.
Now that they were trading someone away again, it was naturally awkward to mock such news.
Fortunately, there was still plenty of fun to be had.
The new MVP, Tim Duncan, was about to be eliminated, and New York fans would surely love such news: the "thief" had been exposed!
There was only one game that night, and to the disappointment of the spectators, the Dallas Mavericks failed to seize the opportunity.
97:98. The Spurs, back on their home court, stubbornly tied the series at 2:3.
With 2 minutes left in the game, neither side scored a point.
The Spurs relied on their Defense to avoid a gentleman's sweep, but no one still believed they could make a comeback.
Popovich was once again questioned.
In a do-or-die game, his adjustment was to increase Duncan's playing time, as if returning to the previous few seasons.
The backbone played 44 minutes again tonight.
13-of-19 from the field, 10-of-15 from the free-throw line, 36 points, 12 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal, 3 blocks, and 3 turnovers.
With a massive double-double, Tim Duncan certainly displayed his dominance.
At SBC Center, after the game, San Antonio fans were in low spirits, but Duncan, who was being interviewed nearby, showed a determined expression:
"The series isn't over yet. We won't give up. In fact, everyone's game state is getting better and better!"
"I don't believe in historical data. I just want to focus on the current game."
As Duncan said, without considering the rotation, the GDP trio performed consistently.
Parker contributed 27 points, and Manu Ginobili also had 18 points.
At the press conference, Popovich initially didn't want to complain in front of the media, but after being frequently questioned, he couldn't help but speak sarcastically:
"Not every team is the New York Knicks. New York's luxury tax is half of our salary!"
"You never mention these things. This is the difference between Tim and Lee!"
"Questioning Tim's MVP? He led the team to 61 wins in the Western Conference."
These words truly made him lose some prestige.
Years of losing experiences had clearly affected Popovich's confidence.
Perhaps in his heart, the Spurs had already stopped here.
The Mavericks' victory was also reasonable.
After all, their salary this year was only second to the New York Knicks.
Paying such a high luxury tax, a conference final seemed well-deserved.
Dirk Nowitzki scored a team-high 31 points.
This year was considered the peak of his career, but it was a pity he didn't win MVP.
The German didn't talk much and didn't have many stories.
When he dominated the Minnesota Timberwolves back then, no one bragged about it.
Fortunately, he finally broke through this season.
Seizing this opportunity, he also made a strong statement in front of the media:
"I don't care about MVP! I want to bring a championship to the team more."
"Many people forget one thing: in recent years, the Mavericks have never lost consecutive games to the New York Knicks in the regular season."
"This year we are also a 60-win team!"
Perhaps influenced by the Dallas Morning News constantly proclaiming "aiming for the NBA Finals," Dirk Nowitzki, having secured the series point, also became somewhat overconfident, prematurely talking about the NBA Finals.
No one in the audience refuted him, as the Phoenix Suns looked completely outmatched.
Their Defense was only highlighted by their opponents.
Selected to the All-Defensive First Team for 6 consecutive seasons and the All-NBA First Team for 9 consecutive seasons, Clay Lee seemed to have entered an offensive and defensive integrated state since the 2000-01 season.
On Thursday, the 18th, TNT continued to preview that night's Western Conference Semifinals.
The Phoenix Suns held the series point, and they had a chance to end the series.
Steve Nash was the only player in the NBA to join the 180 Club after Clay Lee this season.
The Phoenix Suns had always been underestimated, but seeing them reach the conference finals, basketball analysts had to start discussing them.
In the studio, Lee's and Nash's statistics were displayed by the director.
In comparison, there were indeed many similarities between the two.
However, Nash clearly still couldn't change the stereotype.
Charles Barkley unceremoniously pointed out the "water" in the statistics:
"Do you know why everyone doesn't favor Steve Nash? Because he's just an imitator. I don't want to count how many assists Shawn Marion contributed to his stats."
"The fact is that the Phoenix Suns are not a championship contender. When we made it to the NBA Finals back then, besides offense, we also had excellent Defense."
"Kevin Johnson is stronger than Nash. If he came to this era, he could easily get a 30+10 double-double."
Kenny Smith, sitting on the far left, quietly pursed his lips.
In the long history of the NBA, only 3 players have averaged 30 points and 10 assists per game:
Oscar Robertson, Knight Archibald, and Clay Lee.
30+10 has never been easy.
Oscar Robertson achieved this feat in 5 seasons of his career, Knight Archibald only once, and Clay Lee 4 times.
Considering that the first two belonged to the ancient basketball era, Clay Lee's achievement was already defying the heavens.
"Chuck, we all know how difficult 30+10 is. There's no need to compare Steve Nash with Clay Lee. In fact, he is indeed an excellent point guard."
"The 180 Club is also not a simple feat. His shooting ability and passing vision are underestimated."
"Head Coach Popovich's words are very reasonable. Championships sometimes also test roster depth. The Phoenix Suns' salary is at the bottom, so reaching the conference finals is their biggest success."
Hearing Kenny Smith's words, Ernie Johnson also sighed:
"The NBA Finals are very likely to be a matchup between the top two teams in terms of salary, which might not be a good thing for the NBA."
"The championship effect has made the New York Knicks stronger and stronger. Michael Finley's arrival is the best proof."
Noticing that his two partners had automatically ignored the Miami Heat, Charles Barkley laughed, taking the opportunity to bring up an old topic again:
"O'Neal failed to return to the NBA Finals after leaving Kobe. Neither of them has proven themselves since they separated."
"If the Miami Heat lose again this year, maybe O'Neal will miss his time teaming up with Kobe. At least they won one championship."
"…"
Perhaps the extensive attention affected Nash, and the Phoenix Suns, who continued their extreme seven-man rotation that night, also failed to seize the opportunity.
Losing 102:116 on the road, the two teams would face a Game 7.
Elton Brand of the Los Angeles Clippers almost transformed into "O'Neal" in this series, completely dominating the paint.
Nash's 6-of-16 shooting for 17 points, 2 rebounds, and 11 assists double-double performance could not lead his team to victory.
After the game, a reporter from The Arizona Republic interviewed Amare Stoudemire.
Phoenix Suns fans started to "IF," they desperately needed a championship center!
"Steve and Lee are both big-game players. I'm not worried about his performance."
"Game 7 is about the details. I have confidence in my teammates, and my championship experience can help the team at this time!"
Amare Stoudemire, interviewed in the locker room after the game, was solemnly showing off.
Shawn Marion, who played 45 minutes tonight, almost rolled his eyes and secretly grumbled in his heart:
"Can championship experience solve the problem of personnel shortages?"
Eddie House and James Jones were the only two Phoenix Suns players in the rotation.
Alvin Gentry had completely abandoned the center position.
On Monday, May 22nd, after the Spurs tied the series at 3:3 last Friday, both Western Conference Semifinals series went to a Game 7.
The Miami Heat team had already flown to Manhattan.
The Eastern Conference Finals would officially begin tomorrow night.
After nearly a week of rest, Pat Riley adopted a "high-pressure" policy, conducting secret training.
Fortunately, the slick-haired boss allowed players' families to accompany the team.
Dwyane Wade's wife, Siohvaughn Wade, also took this opportunity to come to New York.
Arriving at the Gansevoort Meatpacking Hotel on Ninth Avenue in the afternoon, the petty O'Neal was in a bad mood.
He didn't like the media making fun of his championship!
Gary Payton and Antoine Walker were flipping through magazines.
The coaching staff didn't allow players to talk to the media, which made the veterans uncomfortable.
Siohvaughn Wade frowned while looking at the news in the newspaper.
Her husband was being ignored.
Recently, the New York Media was focused on Lee's life.
Reporters recently photographed Lee and Katheryn Winnick having lunch together at a restaurant in Tarrytown.
The New York Daily News gossiped about how many children Clay Lee would have in the future.
Family members and players would not stay together.
Dwyane Wade saw his childhood sweetheart frowning and immediately spoke to comfort her:
"We'll go to another hotel later. Don't read this boring news. Maybe we won't come back to this city. I don't like playing here at all."
After entering the NBA, the two were hailed as a model couple.
Siohvaughn Wade looked at her confident husband, a smile appearing on her face:
"My champion, I also want to go back to Miami soon…"
Dwyane Wade had actually secretly read the newspaper.
He had an impression of Katheryn Winnick.
She seemed to have played a small role in CSI: NY Season 2 last year.
Ever since he became a big star, Dwyane Wade felt he had married too early.
To truly let loose, he had to consider Siohvaughn Wade.
Embracing his wife, he stepped onto the elevator, his mind racing with thoughts:
"Maybe I should enrich my life more."
"…"
2006 was an even-numbered year.
ESPN and ABC would be responsible for broadcasting the Eastern Conference Finals, while TNT would be responsible for the Western Conference Finals.
After the New York Knicks' routine practice ended in the afternoon, it was not yet 4 PM. ESPN reporters were already accustomed to the current schedule.
Coach D'Antoni had not conducted high-pressure training these days.
After a simple practice game, Lee didn't even break a sweat.
In fact, most of his time was spent passing and directing movement, which was completely different from the 'dominating teammates' impression many reporters had.
On the contrary, Ron Artest preferred to show off.
His strong comeback after a one-year suspension and his inclusion in the All-NBA team was a huge encouragement.
D'Antoni did not forbid his players from accepting interviews.
After the training session, many reporters surrounded Ron Artest.
They could always get the news they wanted there.
"Flash? Go ask that rookie, who is the fastest player in the NBA?"
"I don't like him. These past few days, we've been watching Heat's playoff replays. That guy relies entirely on the referees. Lee never gets that many free throws."
"I hope he doesn't go see a psychologist after losing this year's game. Maybe he should go comfort his idol."
A somewhat inflated Ron Artest opened his big mouth and spewed out a torrent.
He had been grinning ever since Allen Iverson was exposed with depression.
Philadelphia media always liked to dig up his past, and now Allen Iverson was sick too!
Lee and Grant Hill, who were also being interviewed courtside, were much more serious.
Besides the usual well wishes for Allen Iverson's speedy recovery, they mostly talked about the game:
"The Heat are indeed getting into their rhythm. Perhaps they will stick to zone Defense, testing our shooting."
"Grant might be left open, but I believe big data can also be wrong. We are well prepared for this."
Lee, wearing a grey short-sleeved T-shirt, showed clear chest muscle definition.
Sports reporters from Dallas were secretly amazed.
In comparison, Harris and Terry looked a bit thin.
Hearing Lee talk about the game plan, Grant Hill shrugged and playfully teased his own shooting with a smile:
"I accept this test, but it doesn't put pressure on me, after all, I have a group of teammates behind me."
"Perhaps we'll go with a smaller lineup. For years, everyone has been battling Shaquille O'Neal, and the New York Knicks are definitely the team in the NBA that understands him best."
No matter how the opponent adjusts, the New York Knicks have a way to deal with it.
What Grant Hill said was true.
Creating the 58 and 59 records, the rotation lineup was definitely the primary contributor.
In recent years, the Conference Finals and NBA Finals have had Spanish commentary, and Pau Gasol has also received more attention.
Fisher looked at the reporters surrounding Pau Gasol with some envy.
The New York Knicks had too many players, and while a championship was good, he wanted to show off more:
"Matt, I guarantee you, if we switch teams, we'll definitely get more attention and also more playing time."
"That's also why Candace wants me to go back to Los Angeles. You don't want to disappoint Govan, right!"
Old Fish and Barnes, walking towards the locker room, chatted casually.
The latter thought of his beloved girlfriend and subconsciously nodded.
He indeed wanted to show off:
"I'll consider it. Thanks, Bro!"
Old Fish smiled.
Los Angeles was his territory, and he was starting to look forward to this year's offseason.
Tuesday, May 23rd, 8 PM tonight, the Eastern Conference Finals will tip off first.
Last night's two Game 7s saw the Dallas Mavericks and Phoenix Suns emerge victorious, ending the season for the newly crowned MVP, Tim Duncan.
The San Antonio sports media and fans, completely losing it, once again blamed Popovich.
Every time they hoped for a championship, this'slacker coach' would deliver a crushing blow.
When they arrived at the Madison Square Garden in the afternoon for early warm-ups, Pat Riley once again became the focus of media reporters.
Unlike Popovich, the slick-haired boss had proven himself.
The current Heat roster was entirely built by him, and reporters who blindly believed in famous coaches thought Pat Riley's coaching level was above Stan Van Gundy's!
New York Media rarely spoke ill of Pat Riley, after all, they had made it to the NBA Finals back then, which was also a sweet memory.
With slightly thinning hair but an immaculately styled coiffure, Pat Riley appeared serious during his interview, seizing the opportunity to put pressure on tonight's referees:
"I understand New York's home court, but like the fans, I want to see a great game!"
"These past few days, we have designed multiple different tactics to limit Clay Lee. If anyone can end the New York Knicks' dominance, I believe it must be the Heat."
"The desire for a championship will make my players unleash even more energy. Tonight's game will be a battle of men!"
Under the new rules, it was very friendly to offensive teams, but when facing the New York Knicks, sometimes the referees would call fouls with double standards, making the game more difficult.
Pat Riley had noticed this long ago, and he hoped the referees could give the Heat a hand, which was why he had been giving so many interviews recently.
Shaquille O'Neal, who was stretching, finally got his chance.
During his interview, he pointed his finger at TNT's program and, by the way, declared his dominance:
"My prophecy will not be wrong. Look at this Madison Square Garden, I am once again on the Eastern Conference Finals stage."
"Some people can only stop in the first round after leaving me. This is the difference between a core and a role player. Don't question my championships anymore. Now I am only 4 wins away from the NBA Finals!"
Shaquille O'Neal finally felt comfortable after saying these words in a low, deep voice.
After years of being beaten down, for him, a Conference Finals appearance was also a success.
Dwyane Wade did not make any grand statements.
He was very focused during warm-ups.
To win the series, getting a road victory was the ideal situation, and he didn't want to miss this opportunity.
With less than an hour until the game, New York fans were already queuing outside the Madison Square Garden to enter.
Some fans with orange camouflage painted on their faces held up giant caricatures of Shaquille O'Neal and Dwyane Wade with pained expressions.
The game hadn't even started, and the fun-loving people were already grinning with anticipation.
Theo Vaughn and the Heat players' families sat in the front row.
Unlike the fair-weather fans in Miami, New York fans were very loyal.
Entering the Conference Finals for 10 consecutive seasons, the New York Knicks were about to tie the record set by the Celtics.
The unusually noisy Madison Square Garden still made the Heat players' families a bit uncomfortable.
The self-hyping fans were already counting their chickens before they hatched, believing that the New York Knicks would sooner or later surpass the Boston Celtics next door.
The pre-game ceremony ignited the Arena.
Before the game even started, shouts of "MVP!" came in waves.
At the ESPN broadcast booth, Mike Breen naturally knew that the fans were mocking Tim Duncan.
Stopping in the semifinals, this year's MVP was weak:
"The Heat have maintained their starting lineup. The frontcourt three are still Antoine Walker, Haslem, and Shaquille O'Neal."
"The New York Knicks, on the other hand, have made a lineup adjustment. Boris Diaw is back in the starting lineup. Will the Heat's interior have an advantage?"
Hubie Brown, wearing headphones, shook his head slightly.
Compared to the Cavaliers, the Heat did not have an advantage in rebounding.
He also guessed some of D'Antoni's thoughts:
"Obviously, the New York Knicks will continue their previous strategy of shrinking the Defense. Once Shaquille O'Neal receives the ball in the low post, he will definitely be double-teamed."
"Both sides will test each other's shooting after the tip-off. Considering the New York Knicks' performance in the first quarter, Dwyane Wade on the Heat's side must step up early."
As both teams' players warmed up for the last time, the director also aimed the camera at Clay Lee and Shaquille O'Neal.
The former looked relaxed, dribbling the ball and running around, while the latter was still actively shooting near the free throw line.
D'Antoni was still the same, black pinstripe suit with a red tie.
The Moustache didn't arrange too much, sitting early on the bench with a few members of the coaching staff.
Pat Riley also wore a black suit, but the slick-haired boss chose a Heat's dark red speckled tie.
He spent the last few minutes pulling Jason Williams aside, giving him endless instructions.
Perhaps the slick-haired boss's pep talk really worked, as the Heat quickly got into game rhythm after the 8 PM game began.
There were no complex tactics.
For several consecutive possessions, in half-court offense, Dwyane Wade would always start under the basket, use Haslem's screen at the free throw line, and then come to the top of the arc to receive the ball.
Facing Grant Hill's chase, Dwyane Wade drove hard to the basket, then pulled up for a jump shot, scoring continuously.
The Heat kept responding on offense with Dwyane Wade's Shock.
Shaquille O'Neal, who frequently received the ball in the left low post, also passed it out in time after being double-teamed, and several outside shots also found their mark.
The 2-3 zone Defense also made the Heat pay a price.
Two players on the high post double-teamed, and the weak side rotated to close out.
Ron Artest's three-pointers and Grant Hill's drives also continuously scored.
With both teams shooting at a very high percentage, fast break opportunities were not many, but the pace of the game gradually quickened.
"Defense!"
Amidst the defensive cheers, on the right side near the baseline, Dwyane Wade and Grant Hill on his side constantly pulled and tugged.
Haslem started from the right elbow area, providing a timely screen for his teammate.
With his teammate set, Dwyane Wade accelerated up the court, noticed Lee blocking Jason Williams's right-hand pass, stopped short at the elbow, then moved horizontally towards the free throw line.
Williams at the top of the arc took the opportunity to turn and protect the ball, then passed the ball in a different direction.
Shaquille O'Neal stopped near the left elbow.
Dwyane Wade, moving horizontally, received the ball and immediately put it down with his left hand, using the big man's large frame to shake off the trailing Grant Hill.
Before Pau Gasol could rotate to interfere, Dwyane Wade, who had come to his teammate's side, suddenly stopped short, drifted to the left, and shot an air ball!
This was the first miss of the game.
The Heat did not crash the offensive glass, everyone immediately retreated on Defense.
Boris Diaw easily grabbed the rebound under the basket, and Lee, who was there to receive the ball, had already made a tactical hand signal.
Having a perfect start, Pat Riley on the sidelines seemed a bit emotional.
Regardless of whether his players could hear him, he made a gesture and loudly reminded everyone:
"Double-team!"
Jason Williams, receiving the instruction, quickly went to guard Lee, who had just crossed half-court.
Before he could interfere, the basketball had already flown to the right wing, and Grant Hill easily received the ball.
"Let's go Knicks!"
Amidst the cheers, Lee waved for Ron Artest to cross-cut, then quickly ran to the left wing.
Ron Artest, who had come to the top of the arc, also received a short pass from Grant Hill.
The New York Knicks' three perimeter players spread out.
When Ron Artest passed the ball back to Clay Lee, besides Dwyane Wade and Williams on the perimeter, Antoine Walker also shifted, coming to the left block.
Grant Hill on the right wing was now left open again.
O'Neal and Haslem under the basket also focused their attention on Lee.
Dwyane Wade controlled the defensive distance, guarding Lee who was far from the three-point line.
Williams was also moving towards the free throw line.
The Heat began to stack defenders on the left side of the court.
Perhaps they were too focused on Defense, as the two players on the perimeter didn't hear Haslem's warning.
Boris Diaw, below the right side of the basket, quietly shifted his feet and squeezed behind Williams.
Pau Gasol, taking advantage of Shaquille O'Neal's inattention, also slipped under the basket to set an off-ball screen.
Dwyane Wade, seeing Lee suddenly tossed the ball towards the basket, instinctively turned his head.
Amidst the cheers of the home fans, Grant Hill cut straight to the basket from the right wing.
The screens from two teammates blocked the Defense, allowing him to leap high without interference, grab the ball with both hands above the right side of the rim, and powerfully dunk it with both hands!
"What a great play! Grant Hill cuts to the basket and scores again. The Heat should adjust their defensive strategy!"
At the commentary table, Mike Breen cheered happily.
Hubie Brown, looking at Lee who was pointing his index finger and smiling, once again loudly praised the offense:
"Perhaps the New York Knicks' coaching staff was prepared, but Clay Lee's reaction was too fast. The Heat's defensive strategy failed again."
This type of zone Defense could lighten Shaquille O'Neal's burden.
The Heat's efficient scoring curbed fast breaks, but they still couldn't pull away.
27:27, with 1 minute and 02 seconds left in the first quarter, the score was tied again.
The Heat didn't change their offensive strategy either.
O'Neal continued to demand the ball with his back to the basket in the left low post, and Haslem immediately came to the free-throw line.
When Wade snuck along the baseline from right to left to the left wing, he immediately threw the ball after receiving it.
O'Neal took the ball with his back to the basket, observed the Defense, then put the ball down with his right hand and continuously backed down.
Diaw didn't give the opponent a chance to get close to the paint, providing timely help Defense and double-teaming with Gasol.
One raised his hands high, the other interfered low.
O'Neal, who had only made one field goal before, didn't choose to pass this time.
Instead, he gathered the ball and suddenly took a step.
He forcefully squeezed through the two of them, and was double-teamed again in the paint directly in front of the basket.
While protecting the ball, O'Neal didn't forget to fake with the ball, then, with the Defense hanging on him, he tried to force a layup.
Before the ball left his hand, the referee immediately blew the whistle, calling a holding foul on Diaw.
O'Neal glared as he walked to the free-throw line.
Despite repeatedly making excellent passes, he still couldn't change the Defense.
"Boo!"
The New York fans present were not satisfied with this call.
Diaw just pouted and smiled; this was also part of the game plan.
The boos quickly turned into cheers.
O'Neal, after aiming for a long time, bricked the free throw.
He sped up the second shot, but it also bounced off the rim.
Watching Gasol grab the rebound, Pat Riley paced back and forth on the sidelines, sighing inwardly.
These easy scoring opportunities shouldn't be missed.
In transition offense, the Heat switched to man-to-man Defense.
Wade moved up early to delay.
After Lee's tank-like fast break score at the start, Jason Williams no longer guarded him.
He retreated on Defense in time.
O'Neal under the basket was still loudly directing.
On the left wing, Lee, holding the ball in his left hand, accelerated again, driving past the three-point line with Wade on him.
It seemed to have turned into a familiar 2-on-2.
O'Neal was a bit nervous, subtly pulling Gasol to prevent a screen.
Haslem, guarding Diaw near the free-throw line, had intended to help defend inside the paint.
Just as he moved his foot, Lee suddenly stopped and dribbled behind his back.
Watching Lee in front of him suddenly speed up his dribble, change direction between his legs, then dribble behind his back again, all while completing a step-back, Wade no longer adjusted his center of gravity.
Instead, he instinctively jumped up to contest the shot!
The slightly leaning back jump shot allowed Lee to shoot without much interference.
The ball sailed over his opponent's fingertips, and then both players fell to the floor simultaneously.
"Squeak!"
The referee blew the whistle, and the ball swished through the net.
Cheers once again echoed through the Madison Square Garden.
Wade looked at Lee, who was being helped up by the New York Knicks players, feeling frustrated.
According to the pre-game plan, the goal was to drive the opponent into the paint as much as possible, or force them to take difficult shots.
He had indeed met the coach's demands, but in an instant, Lee scored again.
"MVP! MVP! MVP!"
Listening to the shouts around him, O'Neal frowned as he watched Lee make the free throw from beside the paint.
While the ball was being inbounded, the big man also gestured a play to his teammates in advance.
Wade didn't actively receive the ball again, instead stopping near the baseline on the right side.
O'Neal demanded the ball with his back to the basket in the left low post, and Antoine Walker passed the ball from the left wing.
Still starting from the low post, as soon as O'Neal put the ball down with his right hand, Ron Artest on the perimeter immediately sagged to help defend, flashing the ball to avoid a steal, then passing it out to the perimeter.
Antoine Walker didn't hesitate either.
Facing the closeout, he decisively shot and scored!
30:31. On the Heat's bench, Gary Payton was muttering and wildly waving a towel.
The veteran was particularly excited.
Such good form from the team was rare.
Observing that the opponent continued with man-to-man Defense, Lee simply stopped near the logo and began to control the clock.
Wade actively turned his body, giving up Lee's right hand.
O'Neal under the basket continued to instruct his teammates on the perimeter to sag.
With 10 seconds left on the shot clock, Lee suddenly lowered his center of gravity, subtly rotating his hips for power, leading the ball forward with his right hand, and accelerating in a straight line.
Wade, who was prepared, quickly slid backward and to the left, following him.
Approaching the three-point line, Lee suddenly stopped short.
Slightly raising his center of gravity, Lee straightened his upper body slightly, and at that instant, the Heat's sagging Defense also stopped.
Before Wade could make a defensive move, Lee stopped and started quickly, accelerating a second time, rotating his hips again to accelerate.
The moment he led the ball forward, he completely shook off the Defense.
In the blink of an eye, he broke into the paint.
The Heat players, whose "trap failed," could only watch Lee take off with both feet directly in front of the basket, soaring into the air.
Wade, trailing on Defense, didn't have time to pull him.
O'Neal, with his rich experience, simply yielded his position.
Only Haslem, below the basket to the right, jumped up to interfere.
His head level with the rim, briefly suspended, Lee pulled his right arm back with the ball, instantly pushing away the Defense in front of him.
Haslem, who hadn't even reached his highest point, lost his balance in mid-air.
Lee slammed the ball down, the rim roared, and Haslem, who fell horizontally to the floor, heard the excited shouts of the fans.
"Oh!"
While there was still time, and not bothering to help up his teammate, Wade quickly inbounded the ball from the baseline and charged forward.
Using his speed, he reached the right wing, driving hard to the basket while battling Clay Lee.
Although he ended up getting a huge block right in his face, the referee also blew the whistle.
Wade, who successfully drew the foul, stood at the free-throw line, gasping for air.
Two shots, one made. Wade waved his hand in annoyance.
The first quarter ended 31:33, with the Heat trailing by only 2 points.
Looking at the statistics, the Heat were 13 for 20, a shooting percentage of nearly 70%.
Hubie Brown couldn't help but comment:
"To have such a perfect start and still be trailing, that's the defending champion! However, Hill's Defense on Wade wasn't successful. Perhaps the New York Knicks will change their matchups soon."
Wade played the entire first quarter, shooting 6 for 7 from the field and 1 for 2 from the free throw line, efficiently scoring 13 points.
Although O'Neal was 1 for 2 and only scored 2 points, he dished out 4 assists.
On the Heat's bench, Pat Riley was very satisfied with his players' performance in the first quarter.
For the rotation, he decided to keep Antoine Walker, who had a good touch.
The slick-haired boss had intended to surprise them, but when he saw the New York Knicks' lineup, he couldn't help but frown again.
Gary Payton and Wade partnered in the backcourt, with James Posey, Antoine Walker, and Haslem forming the frontcourt.
For the New York Knicks, Raja Bell, Michael Finley, Prince, and Diaw were on the court.
Both sides coincidentally lowered their height.
"Defense!"
The Heat attacked first.
Amidst the cheers for Defense, with a baseline cross-screen, Antoine Walker came to the right block again to receive a pass from Payton.
Facing Prince, he put the ball down with his left hand and continuously backed down.
The moment he squeezed into the paint, Antoine Walker was immediately surrounded by multiple defenders.
He didn't even have time to make any extra tactical moves before the ball was swatted away.
Diaw controlled the ball, striding quickly up the middle.
Wade cursed under his breath and again called for his teammates to retreat on Defense.
Both sides were very fast.
When Wade, trailing on Defense, reached the left wing, he saw Lee seemingly trying to accelerate and cut in, and subconsciously slid to follow.
Just as his feet moved, Lee suddenly stopped short, quickly popped out, received the ball on the left wing, and immediately faked with the ball.
Wade was fooled and jumped up, then watched Lee dribble one step sideways and quickly jump shot!
"Swish!" The three-pointer swished through the net.
31:36, the lead was extended again.
Pat Riley was starting to lose his composure.
He had been quietly calculating the stats: 5 for 7 from the field, 3 for 5 from beyond the arc, 3 for 3 from the free-throw line, 16 points, 2 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 steal.
Clay Lee had clearly sped up his game tempo.
The help Defense and double-teaming were losing their effectiveness.
This was already nearly half of the team's scoring.
Point guard Gary Payton, facing Raja Bell's Defense, also released the ball early.
The screen quality decreased, and Wade, who snuck along the baseline, couldn't shake off Lee in time.
Near the left baseline, Wade received the ball, immediately put it down with his right hand, and used his body strength to back down hard.
Amidst the jeers of the home fans, Lee occasionally interfered with his hands, disrupting the opponent's offensive rhythm.
After a few shoves, finding it ineffective, Wade quickly twisted his body, trying to lean in and accelerate, but Lee was ready for it and poked the ball away with his left hand.
Fans in the front row watched Wade in the red jersey and Lee in the white jersey both dive for the ball, and they all stood up to clear the way.
Wade got to the ball first, intending to control it, but found himself losing his balance.
The moment he flew out of bounds, he wanted to tossed the ball off Lee.
Twisting his body made it hard to exert force.
Although Wade tossed the ball, Lee seemed to have been prepared, stopping right near the sideline and catching the ball in his arms.
With a thud, Wade fell into the seats.
Before he could regret it, Lee had already crossed mid-court.
"Shit!"
Unable to chase back on Defense, Wade stood up and watched Lee charge to the right wing, pushing the ball while moving to change direction to his left hand, and driving hard to the basket while battling Gary Payton.
Payton, who had recovered on Defense in time, was knocked staggering to the ground near the free-throw line.
Haslem, who had just returned to the basket, hadn't even had time to jump before he saw Clay Lee soaring into the air again.
He instinctively reached out to interfere, and then Haslem heard the rim explode.
Watching Lee hang on the rim with his left hand to absorb the impact, James Posey, who had returned on Defense, stared wide-eyed, and a look of surprise appeared on his dark face:
"He was supposed to explode in the 3rd quarter!"
31:38. Pat Riley on the sidelines didn't call a timeout, but instead signaled to Payton to steady the pace.
The Heat attacked.
Wade stopped under the basket.
As Antoine Walker settled at the free-throw line, he immediately accelerated and popped out.
"Defense!"
Amidst the defensive cheers echoing through the Madison Square Garden, Wade couldn't shake off Lee in time, and Payton didn't pass the ball immediately.
To be safe, he ultimately had to receive the ball far from the three-point line.
Antoine Walker quickly raised the screen position.
Before Wade could "weave through," he was double-teamed by Prince and Lee.
Pat Riley on the sidelines realized Wade was about to turn the ball over and quickly complained loudly to the sideline referee.
Fortunately, Wade squeezed through the gap and passed the ball to Antoine Walker, who had split off and moved to the left wing.
With no one guarding him, Walker shot and bricked it.
The New York fans then cheered again.
The long rebound was grabbed by Raja Bell, who immediately passed the ball to Finley.
Accelerating along the left sideline, Finley's progression speed wasn't fast.
When he reached the left wing, he was temporarily unguarded, as Payton and Wade were both trailing Lee.
Completely left open, Finley simply stopped, gathered the ball with a sudden stop outside the three-point line, and decisively shot and bricked it.
Before the Heat players could even celebrate, Diaw jumped up behind Haslem, almost tipping the ball into the basket from his opponent's hands.
31:40. Pat Riley immediately called a timeout.
His small lineup seemed to be a complete failure.
Watching Lee and the others high-five in celebration, Madison Square Garden erupted again.
The slick-haired boss didn't immediately draw up a play, but instead yelled at the referee:
"That was a foul earlier! Look at the score! You can't be biased towards New York!"
Looking at Pat Riley, who was wide-eyed and roaring furiously, the referees all understood what he meant:
"Help me quickly."
...
By the way, don't forget to throw power stones and leave a review to motivate me :)