On April 28th, the first round of the playoffs, Game 5, concluded. In the Western Conference, the Lakers and Thunder successfully advanced. However, the Mavericks and Suns were both tied again by their opponents in Game 5, bringing the series score to 3:2.
In the Eastern Conference, besides the Magic who had already swept their way through, the Cavaliers and Boston Celtics also successfully eliminated their opponents on their home courts. Both teams advanced to the Semifinals with a 4:1 record, and the anticipated showdown between LeBron James and the Boston Celtics Big Three left fans eagerly awaiting.
Meanwhile, the Bucks' Game 5, the pivotal 'King Mountain' battle, was exceptionally intense. In the end, key shots from Delfino and Ilyasova, combined with Brandon Jennings's free throws, allowed the Bucks to stage a comeback on the road, winning the King Mountain battle 91:89.
America media reporters have been stirring up trouble these past two days. Two days after the Spurs were eliminated, at the team's press conference, a reporter began to question Coach Popovich's starting lineup for Game 5.
"No offense, but I want to ask why, in a crucial game like Game 5, you chose to put George Hill in the starting lineup. We all know he performed very poorly in this series."
George Hill's stats in Game 5 were 8 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 turnovers. Such a disappointing performance naturally drew the attention of media reporters and critics. Everyone criticized George Hill's play after the game, believing he ruined the Spurs' chances.
Coach Popovich felt a surge of anger when he heard the reporter's question, but years of coaching experience allowed him to control his expression. He replied calmly:
"We cannot define a player by one series. George is a very talented kid, and he has perfectly integrated into the Spurs' system. But I also have to admit that he has not yet reached the level of an All-Star player; he still has room for improvement."
"As for why George returned to the starting lineup, it's because Manu's physical exertion was too great in the last game. He is also an old veteran who is almost 33 years old, and his physical recovery cannot keep up with younger players. That is why we started George."
"Can you comment on Kayce's performance? He performed exceptionally well in this series. What do you think he can achieve in the future?"
The ESPN reporter's question twisted the knife deeper into Coach Popovich's wounded heart. The old man's mouth twitched, and he almost swore. Kayce had completely broken the Spurs' defense; what was there to comment on?
"Achieving such accomplishments in his rookie season, Kayce reminds me of Tim Duncan. Like Tim, as long as he stays healthy, he will have a legendary career. I am very happy to see a player like Kayce emerge among the new generation of players in the NBA."
However, most of the reporters present felt a bit helpless hearing such official platitudes. The old man's answer had no sensational points. Yet, the ESPN reporter seemed satisfied with the answer and immediately wrote in his notebook:
"Favorite Disciple Abandoned, Popovich Prefers Kayce"
After all, it starts with a picture, and the content is all made up. America reporters are good at misinterpreting views and fabricating facts.
However, Kayce would not see this news today. On the 28th, the NBA also announced the ROY (Rookie of the Year) for the 2009-10 season.
Kayce easily crushed Stephen Curry, James Harden, Brandon Jennings, Tyreke Evans, and Taj Gibson with 58.8% of the votes.
The NBA also announced the All-Rookie Team, and Kayce was simultaneously selected for the All-Rookie First Team. What was frustrating was that all five players on the First Team were guards, and Taj Gibson was squeezed into the Second Team.
To receive this award, Kayce specially wore a formal suit today, which was also a requirement of the NBA. The current Commissioner, David Stern, pays great attention to players' external image; they must wear a suit and tie when receiving awards.
After the award ceremony, the NBA also held a small press conference for the winners. Fortunately, Oklahoma City advanced, which allowed Kayce to receive the award at home. The strongest rookie of the 2009 draft was on their home team, and Oklahoma City's media was overjoyed!
Kayce wore a dark blue handmade suit, paired with a gray shirt and a dark blue tie. This outfit was recently given to him by Beth. The tailoring was very fitting, and Kayce in a suit looked completely different from his usual self. His temperament was significantly enhanced, making him appear even more handsome.
Kayce looked at the rectangular transparent crystal Rookie of the Year trophy in his hand, a brilliant smile on his face, but inwardly he couldn't help but complain wildly:
"This is too simple! They just shaved off the top of the Rookie of the Month trophy and it became the Rookie of the Year trophy! Besides being a bit heavy, even the engraved font is almost the same as before."
The NBA staff were extremely satisfied with Kayce. Look at his appearance; he could rival Hollywood stars. This was the player image the NBA had always hoped for.
The media reporters below frantically pressed their shutters. This was also a historic moment. If Kayce truly became a superstar in the NBA in the future, these photos might even become hot commodities.
After posing several times and finally satisfying everyone's demands, Kayce had just sat down when reporters below eagerly started asking questions. The Thunder's press officer, seeing Kayce nod, immediately selected a local Oklahoma City media outlet:
"Kayce, congratulations on winning the Rookie of the Year award. All Oklahoma City fans are proud of you. Can you briefly talk about your feelings in Oklahoma City? Fans are actually very concerned about your personal life."
Kayce was very satisfied with this question; local media were more friendly and never caused trouble. After a brief thought, he immediately said:
"I love this city. From the day I tried out for the Thunder, I fell in Love with it. I like the pace of life here, and I feel the sincerity and enthusiasm of Oklahoma City fans. This city truly gives me a sense of home, and I am very grateful for the support of Oklahoma City fans."
Local Oklahoma City reporters were very satisfied with Kayce's answer. As expected of the Thunder's core player, he knew how to speak.
The press officer then called on a TNT media reporter. TNT held the broadcasting rights for Western Conference games, so this much face had to be given during the interview.
"This is truly an award with no suspense. Congratulations, Kayce. You performed exceptionally well in the first round of the playoffs. Looking ahead to the upcoming games, can you talk about your expectations for the team?"
"Of course, it's the championship. Although we are a rookie team, I believe the Thunder already have the strength to contend for the championship. No matter who our opponent is, we will give our all. The championship is our goal!"
At this moment, an ESPN female reporter with long, blonde, wavy hair suddenly asked a somewhat sharp question:
"Congratulations, Kayce. You have fulfilled your promise. I would like to ask your thoughts on the MVP award. Everyone knows that the Thunder's record is only two wins behind the Cavaliers, and Kevin Durant is ranked second on the MVP candidate list."
"Who do you think is more suitable to win the MVP, LeBron James or Kevin Durant?"
Upon hearing this question, his first reaction was that this woman was not a good person! Seeing the media reporters below smiling and looking at him, Kayce smiled and immediately said:
"James is excellent. Despite the team's initial struggles to gel at the start of the season, they still achieved a 63-win record, which is an incredible accomplishment. But if I had a vote, I would still cast my vote for Kevin."
"This season, the Thunder improved from 23 wins to 61 wins, and Kevin, with a shooting percentage of over 40%, won the scoring title this season. In my opinion, this has been an incredible season, and as a member of the Thunder, I support Kevin winning the MVP."
At this time, Durant, who was watching the press conference at home, was also touched by Kayce's words. But then he thought about the competition he would face on the team next season and couldn't help but think with a touch of helplessness:
"Kayce, how great would it be to be a Pippen? I would definitely lead you to a championship."
After a busy morning, Kayce finally completed the tasks arranged by the NBA. When he returned to his mansion in Oklahoma City, he found his good friend Kevin Love exercising in the room. He couldn't help but be surprised and asked:
"Love, didn't you go fishing? Haven't you guys been having a lot of fun these past few days? Why did you suddenly think of exercising?"
The UCLA guys had been fishing in Oklahoma City recently. Since NBA players sign many insurance policies, many dangerous activities are prohibited, which means everyone can only fish or play golf during the offseason.
"Don't worry about me, Kayce. After seeing George Hill's situation, I suddenly felt a sense of crisis. A contract year is too important for players, and I need to prepare in advance. We can talk about it after I get the contract."
Kayce watched the chubby Love huffing and puffing as he lifted weights, shaking his head helplessly. The world of basketball can indeed be cruel sometimes. George Hill's contract would definitely be undervalued by the Spurs, given his poor performance in the playoffs.
"Alright, the offseason is still long. There's no need to be too strict with yourself too early. Russell and Nina are hosting a baking party tonight. Do you want to go and eat something? It's also a party to celebrate the Thunder's successful advancement, and there will be plenty of food."
Love heard Kayce's words, immediately put down the dumbbell in his hand, and said excitedly:
"Cool! I like that kind of theme. I'm definitely going to eat my fill tonight. As for exercising, I think you're right; let's talk about it in July!"
"…"
On April 29th, an ESPN report once again sparked heated discussion. The report stated that one of the Rockets' primary targets in the free agency market was Chris Bosh, and they might discuss a sign-and-trade with the Toronto Raptors, who were very interested in George Hill.
The Thunder's coaching staff didn't care about these boring gossip news. They were waiting for the result of tonight's Game 6 between the Mavericks and the Denver Nuggets. The Western Conference Semifinals would begin on May 3rd, and there wasn't much preparation time left for the team.
As expected, the Mavericks successfully defeated the Denver Nuggets on the road. Carmelo Anthony shot 6-for-22 in the entire game, an extremely inefficient performance that made the game lose suspense early. With a score of 114:102, the Mavericks won the series 4:2 and successfully advanced to the Western Conference Semifinals.
In the other Game 6 in the West, the Phoenix Suns also easily defeated their opponent on the road, eliminating the Utah Jazz 4:2 in the series.
This clarified the matchups for the Western Conference Semifinals: on May 2nd, the Lakers would host the Phoenix Suns, and on May 3rd, the Thunder would host the Dallas Mavericks. All the top-seeded teams advanced, and they would now compete for a spot in the Western Conference Finals.
On April 30th, the first round of the playoffs only had the Milwaukee Bucks vs. Hawks game left in the East. The Hawks won on the road, tying the series 3:3. Game 7 would be played on May 2nd.
But no matter which team won, they would face the well-rested Magic in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, which was not good news for either team.
The Thunder still had morning practice and afternoon film sessions these two days. Coach Brooks and coaching staff once again adjusted the team's defensive strategy specifically for the Mavericks' playing style.
In the playoffs, the Mavericks primarily used an 8-man rotation. Jason Terry and Jose Barea, both small guards, had decent shooting abilities. At this point, a mindless zone defense wouldn't work; if the opponent shot like they did in the regular season, the game would be over.
Caron Butler in the starting lineup was also a point to watch, but coaching staff wasn't worried about this. After all, with Kayce, this matchup was the most reassuring!
However, for the Thunder's interior, defending Nowitzki became a major headache. This season, Nowitzki started receiving the ball frequently from beyond the three-point line, which required the Thunder's defense to keep up.
"Green, Ibaka, when you're defending, once you chase up to the perimeter, remind your teammates to defend the Mavericks' backdoor cuts. Everyone else, don't put all your attention on Nowitzki."
"Kevin, you need to watch Marion's movement. Russell, you also need to watch Kidd's three-point shot. Your task is to protect your defensive areas, and at the same time, if Nowitzki receives the ball in the low post, remember to step up and interfere."
"Everyone needs to communicate on defense. Kayce is responsible for guarding Caron Butler. We need to adjust our defensive strategy as appropriate based on the opponent's perimeter situation."
The coaching staff was explaining the Mavericks' offensive plays and reminding the players of defensive precautions. Coach Brooks was very satisfied with the players' recent form; everyone had not been carried away by victory and was still training diligently.
Especially Kayce's performance, which surprised coaching staff even more. Everyone vaguely felt that Kayce's ball-handling ability seemed to have improved. After the defensive baptism against the Spurs, the young Thunder players had completely adapted to the playoffs.
When the film session ended, the Thunder players relaxed. The tedious defense was truly uninspiring. Russell also felt a bit overwhelmed; simple man-to-man defense was easy for him, but when it came to double-teaming and rotations, he sometimes struggled.
Seeing Kayce, who looked as calm as ever, Russell said enviously:
"Kayce, why can you always easily complete coaching staff's assignments in every tactical training session?"
"Because this defensive system isn't actually that complicated. At UCLA, coaching staff sometimes had even more demands. In my freshman year, you were still the team's defense core on the perimeter."
Upon hearing Kayce's words, Russell immediately recalled past events. There were simply too many small guards in America. Russell's emergence back then was indeed due to his defense, but after a year in the NBA, some good defensive habits had long been forgotten.
"Alright, it's indeed my problem, but this season I've regained my defensive feel from back then. Maybe I have a chance to make the All-Defensive Team."
After finishing their series against the Denver Nuggets, Head Coach Carlisle and coaching staff immediately delved into studying the Thunder's roster, tactics, and defensive strategies.
They repeatedly watched and analyzed the Thunder's first-round series against the Spurs, trying to find weaknesses in the Thunder's lineup. The Assistant Coaches looked at each other in dismay after seeing Kayce's performance; if the Spurs couldn't defend him, how were they supposed to?
"Rick, should we continue to maintain our previous defensive strategy? Will there be problems if we let Butler defend him one-on-one? Erick Dampier and Brandon Jennings' help defense might not keep up with the Thunder's offensive pace."
"This is different from the previous series against the Denver Nuggets. Arron Afflalo didn't have as strong an aggressiveness in his matchup as Kayce, and from the regular season performance, Caron Butler might not be able to play the offense we expect against Kayce's defense."
Head Coach Carlisle felt a bit helpless upon hearing the Assistant Coach's words. In the previous series against the Denver Nuggets, due to Carmelo Anthony's poor perimeter shooting, the Mavericks could easily set up a 3-2 zone defense and just wait for Anthony to drive to the basket.
But the Thunder were different; they were a team that relied heavily on perimeter shooting, and if they couldn't get things going, the Thunder would start using the individual abilities of Kayce and Kevin Durant to solve problems. To Head Coach Carlisle, this was a double-insurance policy.
"For Game 1, we will not change our defensive strategy for now. Caron Butler was in excellent form in the first round. We will stick to our previous game plan. What we need to do now is trust each other and fully support the team."
"As for the rotation, we might need to increase the playing time of some key players, just like in the regular season. During the rotation phase, we need to speed up the offensive pace as much as possible. We have an advantage in perimeter shooting."
Head Coach Carlisle couldn't say anything discouraging at this point and immediately offered some motivational words. However, whenever he thought about the Thunder's five-forward lineup during their rotation, he felt a sense of unease, especially since his own backcourt was simply too short.
"Alas, I hope we can recruit an interior defense core in the offseason, which would solve many problems. We can't let Dirk exhaust himself too much on the defensive end."
Hearing the Assistant Coach's sigh, Head Coach Carlisle also remained silent, because on this matter, he was also somewhat powerless and could only silently pray in his heart:
"I hope the team maintains its good shooting touch from before."
On May 1st, the Eastern Conference Semifinals between the Cavaliers and the Boston Celtics officially began. The Cavaliers, playing at home, led by LeBron James, successfully delivered a heavy blow to the visiting Celtics.
LeBron James played perfectly, efficiently scoring 35 points, 7 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 turnovers, 3 steals, and 2 blocks. With a score of 93:101, the Cavaliers secured an opening victory at home.
America media outlets sang praises for LeBron James after the game; he was simply too strong. The Big Three couldn't withstand James' impact, and Cavaliers fans cheered madly for their hero. This was The Chosen One of Cleveland!
Besides the reports on LeBron James that day, NBA.com's authoritative reporter, Sam Smith, also broke the news that Carmelo Anthony was almost certain to join the New York Knicks!
As soon as this news broke, fans in Denver and New York immediately clashed. One side firmly believed Anthony would not leave Denver, while the other chanted that no one would refuse to play at Madison Square Garden! Fans from both sides furiously debated on Reddit.
On May 2nd, the league's focus once again turned to LeBron James. James successfully won the 2009-10 Regular Season MVP and also held a press conference at Akron University.
Cleveland local reporter Windhorst also wrote a eulogy:
"LeBron's press conference today is a preview of his free agency choice! The Chosen One will not leave Cleveland; he will bring us a championship!"
The Western Conference Semifinals between the Lakers and the Phoenix Suns also took place that night, as did Game 7 of the Eastern Conference series between the Hawks and the Milwaukee Bucks.
The result of the Western Conference Semifinals was somewhat unexpected: 128:107, the Lakers easily defeated the Phoenix Suns at home. Kobe Bryant exploded for 40 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 steal, and 2 turnovers. Such explosive statistics successfully attracted the media's attention.
Kobe Bryant's performance seemed to be telling everyone: I am the best player in the league!
In the only Game 7 of the first round, the Hawks had the last laugh, successfully advancing to the Western Conference Semifinals. Al Horford demonstrated the strength of an All-Star player. Unfortunately, due to the Lakers' explosive performance, most people were no longer paying attention to this game.
These days, various hot news stories kept breaking, thrilling all the fans. As for the Thunder players, they only focused on their next opponent, and everyone unanimously turned off their social media.
On the evening of May 3rd, Ford Center was already packed with a large number of Oklahoma City fans. Everyone was in high spirits. Tonight, they would host the Dallas Mavericks. This was the Western Conference Semifinals! Oklahoma City fans had been looking forward to this for a long time.
Before the game, in the Thunder's locker room, Coach Brooks gave his final instructions to his players:
"Guys, in tonight's game, we must protect our home court. As we've repeatedly emphasized in training these past few days, defense and rebounding must be done well. Pay attention to the landing spots of long rebounds."
"We are only 4 wins away from the Western Conference Finals! All of Oklahoma City fans are supporting us. Let's go!"
"Oh! One, two, three, family!"
When the home DJ began to introduce the home team, Ford Center erupted in massive waves of sound. In the visiting team's tunnel, the Mavericks players hadn't expected Oklahoma City fans to be so passionate. This was practically noise pollution!
When the entrance ceremony ended and both teams were doing their final warm-ups, the atmosphere in the arena was still incredibly lively. The Thunder, wearing their white home jerseys, felt the intense home atmosphere, and Russell said to Kayce beside him:
"What if we lose at home? The fans will be so disappointed."
Kayce looked at Russell in surprise. Why had he suddenly become so melancholic? Feeling that his good brother was a bit nervous, he immediately comforted him:
"Don't worry, with me here, we won't lose at home!"
"..."
Jeff Green, who was nearby, almost burst out laughing when he heard Kayce's words. He felt that the two were not on the same page, but thinking of Kayce's reliable performance, he also added:
"Yeah, I don't believe Caron Butler can stop Kayce, and besides, we still have Kevin!"
Durant, who was focused on warming up nearby, didn't hear Jeff Green's words. His mother had come to watch the game today, which made him a bit nervous. After all, this was the Western Conference Semifinals. These past few days, he had completely given up on surfing the internet just to be in good game condition.
When the referee signaled both teams to come to the center of the court, Kayce also went over and briefly greeted the Mavericks players. Seeing Caron Butler still staring at him with a fierce expression, Kayce didn't care at all and even smiled and said:
"Good luck, buddy! I hope you can limit my offense."
Before the other party could react, Kayce had already returned to the Thunder's half. Hit and run, that was a trick he learned from Chris Paul.
The game was about to begin. Kostić and Dampier went to the center circle for the jump ball. Both sides bent their knees slightly, staring intently at the basketball in the referee's hand.
"Snap!"
Kostić successfully tipped the ball to the Thunder. The audience at Ford Center all stood up at this moment, led by the live DJ, and began to cheer for the home team:
"OKC! OKC! OKC!!!"
On the Thunder's first possession, Russell quickly dribbled past half-court, made an offensive gesture, and signaled Jeff Green and Kostić to come to the top of the key for a double screen for Durant.
As soon as Durant started, Marion immediately stuck to him, agilely squeezing through Jeff Green's screen and continuing to chase Durant. Although the 32-year-old Marion had declined somewhat, his defense was exceptionally cunning. By the time Durant received the ball, he had already been forced outside the three-point line.
The Thunder players immediately ran to create space for Durant, while Kostić again moved to the high post, intending to set another screen for Durant. Marion tightly guarded Durant's right hand. When Durant drove to the left, Marion again squeezed through, sticking close to him.
Head Coach Carlisle nodded in approval from the sidelines. This was also why the Mavericks were able to defeat the Nuggets. Marion's containment of Anthony was indispensable.
Durant dribbled with his left hand for two big steps but had no shot opportunity and was forced to stop. Noticing that Kayce was moving towards him, he immediately passed the ball and quickly popped out.
After Kayce received the ball at the top of the arc outside the three-point line, he immediately drove with his right hand in a step-through. Feeling the body contact from Caron Butler beside him, he suddenly dribbled behind his back while moving, and then pushed off his feet to spring back.
Noticing that Caron Butler's defensive center of gravity had shifted forward, he twisted his body slightly, quickly changed direction between his legs with his left hand, and accelerated with all his might with the ball in his right hand, completely shaking off the defense, and took a pull-up jump shot from the free-throw line.
"Swish!" The mid-range shot went in steadily.
"Oh!!!"
The crowd immediately cheered for Kayce's basket, a perfect first offensive play to start the game. Everyone frantically waved their white handkerchiefs and began to cheer for the home team's defense:
"Defense! Defense! Defense!!!"
On the Mavericks' offense, Kidd dribbled past half-court and immediately ran a pick-and-roll with Dirk Nowitzki. After the screen, he threw a bounce pass to Nowitzki outside the three-point line. At this point, Jeff Green's defense also stuck to him.
At this moment, Caron Butler wanted to go to the top of the key for a hand-off, but Kayce completely covered him with his body, never giving him a chance to receive the ball. After two back-cuts, he still couldn't shake off Kayce.
Nowitzki also noticed the problem. He quickly put the ball down with his right hand, protecting the ball while moving to his right. Kidd immediately went to receive the ball, and the Mavericks reorganized their offense. Dampier set an off-ball screen, and Kidd immediately passed the ball to Nowitzki, who was calling for the ball in the low post.
Nowitzki faced Kostić, who had switched onto him. After a triple threat, he quickly put the ball down with his right hand, dribbled one step, gathered the ball, turned, and took a fadeaway.
"Swish!" The ball arced high in the air and fell into the net, a two-point basket.
"Oh!"
The audience on site also let out an exclamation. The shot didn't look like it would go in at all, but it ended up being a swish.
Coach Brooks shook his head helplessly when he saw this situation. There was no way to defend it; he could only hope the opponent's touch was off.
The Thunder quickly inbounded the ball. Since Durant was being tightly guarded by Marion, for this possession, Jeff Green at the top of the key quickly moved to the right corner. After Kayce executed a cross-screen with his defender, he received a pass from Russell at the left elbow.
Caron Butler stared intently at Kayce, simultaneously resting his forearm on Kayce's body, seemingly trying to use his arm to anticipate Kayce's direction of movement.
Kayce naturally knew the opponent's defensive strategy. He leaned back with force, quickly put the ball down with his right hand, dribbled one step towards the top of the key, and immediately turned to take a fadeaway.
"Swish!" The fadeaway was as beautiful as a painting.
"Ah!!!"
Such a graceful basket was exactly what Oklahoma City fans wanted to see, and the audience once again cheered for Kayce's score.
Caron Butler already felt something was wrong. Kayce had too many offensive moves, and he couldn't predict his next action at all. Thinking of his own struggles on offense, a bad premonition suddenly appeared in his mind.
Coach Brooks clapped his hands and gave Kayce a thumbs up. This was the Thunder's offensive strategy for this game: aggressive defense and finishing the offense within 14 seconds. They wanted to completely speed up the pace of the game.
For the next six minutes or so, both teams engaged in an offensive shootout. The Thunder, once past half-court, quickly shot when screens created opportunities. The Mavericks did the same, with Jason Kidd firmly controlling the team, and Nowitzki's excellent performance allowed them to successfully keep the score close.
At the official timeout, the score was 16:18. Both teams had displayed excellent offense, but Head Coach Carlisle did not want to see this situation. The Thunder's offense was too smooth; Caron Butler could not contain Kayce, leading to breakdowns and scoring from various spots.
After the timeout, Kayce did not increase his shot attempts but instead continuously fed the ball to Jeff Green and Kostić. If these two performed well in the first quarter and got into a rhythm, the rest of the game would be much easier.
Head Coach Brooks subbed out Kayce with 3 minutes and 42 seconds left in the first quarter, and Thabo Sefolosha came in as a substitute.
"Great job, Kayce, keep up this offensive rhythm!"
As Kayce sat on the bench, Coach Brooks immediately praised the team's key player. Durant hadn't played well at the start, and it was thanks to Kayce that the team stabilized the situation.
In the remaining few minutes of the first quarter, Russell once again stepped up to help the team score. Facing veteran Kidd, he made two consecutive unreasonable pull-up jump shots, and then went to the free-throw line multiple times, which allowed the Thunder to withstand the Mavericks' outside shooting.
32:34. Both teams put up high scores in the first quarter, with the Thunder temporarily leading by two points.
During the break between quarters, Coach Brooks immediately loudly gave tactical instructions:
"Screen and switch! Kayce, shoot if you get an open look. We want to go on an offensive surge in the second quarter!"
Coach Carlisle was also instructing Barea and Jason Terry:
"Shoot if you get a chance after the pick-and-roll. Haywood, Marion, both of you must pay attention to defensive rebounds!"
After the second quarter began, on the Mavericks' first possession, Barea dribbled past half-court and immediately ran a high pick-and-roll with Haywood, but Kayce agilely squeezed through, constantly using his height advantage to completely cover his opponent.
Jason Terry saw that his teammate couldn't get the ball out and immediately went to receive it, but Thabo Sefolosha's defense also stayed by his side. The Mavericks' perimeter was forced to continuously swing the ball, but the Thunder's defensive rotation speed was very fast, and the limitations of the small guards were immediately amplified.
24-second violation! The Thunder completed an excellent defensive possession.
"Good job!"
Kayce loudly encouraged his teammates. This is how they should defend, pressure their small guards to death!
When it was the Thunder's turn to offense, Kayce quickly dribbled past half-court. Noticing Caron Butler's defense sticking close again, he immediately passed the ball to Thabo Sefolosha on the right wing outside the three-point line.
Using Serge Ibaka's screen, a simple UCLA cut, Thabo Sefolosha's pass was also quickly in place. Kayce, after receiving the ball, immediately accelerated and drove to the basket. Facing Caron Butler's defense, he suddenly executed a spin move with his right hand, instantly cutting to the basket, and delicately laid the ball in with his left hand.
"Oh, ah!!!"
Seeing such an easy basket, the audience at Ford Center immediately erupted in a huge cheer!
On the Mavericks' offense, this time Jason Terry and Haywood ran a high pick-and-roll, but Collison and Thabo Sefolosha immediately double-teamed, forcing Jason Terry into a turnover. The Mavericks were forced to quickly retreat on defense, and Kayce quickly dribbled past half-court.
On the left wing outside the three-point line, noticing Barea in front of him, he executed an in-and-out dribble with his left hand, then suddenly accelerated. While moving, he quickly dribbled behind his back, ignoring Barea's defense, and took a step-back jump shot from beyond the three-point line.
"Swish!" The three-pointer swished through the net.
"Ah!!!"
A transition three-pointer! The Oklahoma City fans instantly roared with excitement. This was Kayce's unique offensive rhythm, and the Thunder's run was coming.
Jason Terry was getting a bit heated at this point. After two consecutive offensive possessions went awry, combined with the Thunder's increasingly aggressive defense, he quickly took a jump shot after a screen-and-roll outside the three-point line past half-court on this possession.
"Bang!" A furious brick!
The long rebound bounced out, Thabo Sefolosha collected it directly, and passed it to Kayce. The Thunder's transition offense was initiated again. This time Caron Butler quickly matched up with Kayce.
But Kayce, outside the three-point line, paused slightly with his left hand, a sudden 'pump fake' causing Caron Butler's defensive center of gravity to involuntarily shift forward. With a small, in-and-out dribble with his left hand, he accelerated with all his might with the ball in his right hand, easily shaking off the opponent's defense.
Haywood, under the basket, had just recovered when he saw Kayce already airborne. After instinctively jumping up, he immediately felt his body lose balance and flew out, watching Kayce's one-handed dunk in mid-air!
"Clang!" A ferocious driving dunk!
"Ah!!!"
Kayce roared loudly after landing, instantly igniting the atmosphere in the arena. The Oklahoma City fans began to scream wildly! It was a run!
"Screech!"
Head Coach Carlisle quickly called a timeout. When he saw his disheartened rotation players on the bench, he couldn't help but feel a headache coming on:
"The small guards aren't working; this game is getting a bit hard to handle."