Kobe scrambled to catch up, but just as he gave chase, he saw Su Xi make a sharp turn. Su Xi began to run outwards, hugging close to Carl Malone's side... It was a hairpin turn.
Seeing Su Xi's intention to sprint past him at close range, Carl Malone moved his right foot in a split second and raised his right hand... He was trying to create an 'obstacle' to block Su Xi's path.
But unexpectedly, in the instant Su Xi sped past him, his body jerked back as if he had been struck. His acting was incredibly convincing and happened so fast that no one could clearly see if Carl Malone's hand had actually brushed his head. Most importantly... he also kicked Carl Malone's ankle, making it look like he'd been tripped.
TWEET!
The head referee quickly blew his whistle.
Carl Malone immediately let out a pained cry, clutching his ankle as he sat down on the court.
Su Xi wasn't as dramatic. He stumbled a couple of steps, rubbed his forehead, and turned back with a look of indignation.
