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Dragon Emperor in Pokemon World.
The return of Itachi
I am Sasuke. Why should I defect from Konoha.
Please give it a go đ
***
On January 29, 2002, after a week of four games, the New York Knicks once again enjoyed an easier schedule.
As the game began that evening at Madison Square Garden, New York fans chanted in unison:
"Overrated!"
After suffering a crushing defeat on their home court in Philadelphia, Allen Iverson's mentality shattered once again upon arriving in New York.
The more he missed shots, the louder the crowd roared.
Without the home-court whistle, it became increasingly difficult for Iverson to score against the high-intensity zone Defense.
The disadvantage of a smaller player was fully exposed, and the 76ers' low output from beyond the arc allowed the New York Knicks' Defense to shrink further.
When Allen Iverson, driving along the baseline, was knocked to the floor by Ron Artest, no one sympathized with him.
There was only the jeering and mockery from the fans.
The 76ers had too many free throws in the previous game, so naturally, they wanted to save face back on their home court.
The New York Knicks' role players didn't care about this scoring champion.
Ron Artest even excitedly yelled while tugging at his jersey after receiving a flagrant foul.
Turnovers, missed shots, fast breaks against them, lost reboundsâLarry Brown, seeing his team completely collapse on the sidelines, felt disheartened.
He stopped calling timeouts, letting the players flounder aimlessly.
To show respect, as long as Allen Iverson was on the court, the New York Knicks didn't substitute most of their starters, which allowed the joyful atmosphere at Madison Square Garden to continue until the end of the game.
74:104, the New York Knicks crushed their opponent, extending their winning streak to 5 games!
Playing 43 minutes, 6-of-25 shooting, 15 points, 3 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 steals, 4 turnoversâAllen Iverson was completely lost.
The worse the opponent performed, the happier New York fans were.
As Allen Iverson walked towards the player tunnel, the shouts of "Overrated" simply wouldn't stop.
Watching Allen Iverson respond with angry shouts and curses, the jeering grew even louder.
Everyone loved a star who reacted.
Those who played silently like Duncan were truly boring.
As if playing a joke, the fans on both sides of the player tunnel cheered even more enthusiastically.
When Dikembe Mutombo pulled Allen Iverson away, someone was still shouting loudly:
"You stole the All-Star Game spot! You're a stat-padding bad team!"
Even with Dikembe Mutombo's good temper, the hecklers ignited his anger.
In the end, the coaching staff had to pull the players back to the locker room.
Star players can't get into a fight with fans.
Madison Square Garden has become the least favorite away court for other stars in recent years.
Regardless of the team's wins or losses, New York fans can always find amusement, which is why everyone likes to buy tickets to watch games.
Heckling opposing stars in person has become a new era of team culture.
This game was broadcast by NBC.
At the end of the game, Hannah Storm, who had returned from maternity leave, served as a sideline reporter for the first time in a while.
After the game, the two embraced in greeting, and Lee also greeted the veteran female host returning to the NBC studio:
"NBC's ratings dropped a bit without you. Welcome back!"
Not just a pretty face, but a professional studio host, Hannah just tilted her head and said when she heard Lee's teasing:
"You know, Lee, NBC's broadcasting era is almost over. I specifically applied for the opportunity to interview you."
The two quickly exchanged some industry news.
At the reminder of the staff, Hannah took the microphone and asked with a smile:
"With 7 consecutive games scoring 30+, Lee, you have a chance to tie Archibald's record of 12 consecutive 30+ games set in 1973!"
"I've noticed your three-point attempts have been increasing this month. Is this the secret to your efficient scoring?"
Taking the microphone, many fans in the arena were still cheering joyfully.
Infected by the atmosphere, Lee also joked:
"Efficient scoring certainly relies on three-pointers, but I also have to thank tonight's opponent. I love games like this!"
"."
Since Jeff Van Gundy served as the Eastern Conference All-Star Head Coach last year, according to the rules, this year's Head Coach position was deferred to Nets Head Coach Byron Scott, who led the second-placed team in the Eastern Conference.
In the Western Conference, the Sacramento Kings and the Dallas Mavericks surpassed the Lakers and the San Antonio Spurs.
Rick Adelman served as the Western Conference All-Star Head Coach last season, so after the deferral, Don Nelson got the position.
Shaquille O'Neal briefly returned, played two games, and then got injured again.
Kobe's team record declined during this period, and no one discussed the MVP anymore.
On January 30, Allen Iverson bounced back strongly, defeating the Timberwolves at home, which saved him some face.
However, on the TNT show the next day, besides previewing the upcoming All-Star Game, they didn't forget to mock the host city's star player:
"If I only look at the previous schedule performance, I would choose Baron Davis. He deserves an All-Star spot more."
"Don't tell me it's because of injuries. As long as you play, no one will sympathize with you. Giving your all is a sign of respect for the players."
"I don't like the 76ers' performance this season, and I wouldn't be surprised if they miss the playoffs in the end."
Charles Barkley assumed the air of a veteran legend again, while Kenny Smith, beside him, covered his forehead helplessly, pretending to whisper:
"I'm representing the Houston Rockets in the Celebrity Game this year, and I don't want to be booed in Philadelphia, Chuck, it's time to change the subject."
Charles Barkley had already given up on going to Philadelphia.
He had stirred up a hornet's nest these past two years, and his legendary status was useless, as Philadelphia fans had lambasted him:
"Kobe Bryant is also overrated. He's just a scorer next to Shaq. He made Phil Jackson lose his Western Conference All-Star Head Coach position."
"I don't know why he's still on the MVP rankings. Without Shaq, the Lakers' record has declined. Kobe is not an MVP-caliber player."
Ernie Johnson, hearing this, also supported his forehead and said helplessly:
"If you keep talking, the studio will be piled high with fan letters. I'm going to get a new phone number and start over. We need to discuss Lee's record!"
Seeing his two co-hosts' helpless expressions, Charles Barkley grinned and then seriously faced the camera, stating:
"If Clay Lee shot as much as Allen Iverson every game, I even think he could break Wilt Chamberlain's record!"
Every sentence revolved around Allen Iverson and Kobe.
Charles Barkley himself laughed after saying this, and Kenny Smith was completely helpless, once again changing the topic:
"If Vince Carter withdraws from the All-Star Game, who among the reserves is most suitable to take a starting spot?"
"Certainly not Allen Iverson. The Nets' record is better. This time, I'm voting for Jason Kidd!"
As soon as Charles Barkley finished speaking, both people in the studio glared at him.
They really didn't want to receive any more complaints.
On February 1st, at Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall, Nike held a new product launch.
Unlike previous product launches, this one had more charitable elements.
The previous high-price sales strategy wouldn't work.
Prices needed to be heartwarming.
As the ESPY Awards ceremony approached, many sports stars had already gathered in New York, as long as there was no schedule pressure.
Everyone naturally came to support this product launch, and incidentally, made donations to express their goodwill.
In addition to sneakers, there were also some sports equipment and new apparel.
Designer Eric Avar was introducing Lee's new sneakers, and his voice began to deepen when discussing the design philosophy:
"Clay hopes that every child who loves basketball can wear this signature shoe."
"There are no expensive special materials, nor overly peculiar styling. It's entirely designed for practical use. This is definitely an excellent shoe that can accompany you on the basketball court."
"To highlight the uniqueness of this signature shoe, we've also added unique patterns to the exterior. Although the price is lower, we guarantee that the quality of the shoes will be as excellent as ever!"
"."
As the introduction began, everyone saw the design sketches and the final product shoes.
The combination of video and physical display, along with the excellent design concept, drew applause from the media reporters present.
Lee, dressed in a light gray suit, sat in the front row, flanked by Nike founder Phil Knight and Matt Parker, the General Manager of the footwear division.
The three conversed in low voices, mostly discussing shoe sales and advertising.
These sneakers were similar to the Hyperdunk series Lee remembered, differing only slightly in the upper material and laces.
The absence of advanced materials was indeed to lower the cost of the sneakers, as Lee's first-generation signature shoes were still selling at a high price.
"Being able to reach the Finals every year, even if it adds some advertising costs, is what we expect."
"Maintain your current stats, and you still have a great chance for MVP this year!"
Matt Parker whispered to Lee, reassuring him:
"Do I have a chance to achieve a three-peat MVP?"
Hearing Lee's playful remark, Phil Knight also whispered:
"That would require even more shocking statistics. The demands of sports media have been getting higher and higher in recent years!"
As the pure white sneakers were displayed, Lee also went on stage to clap.
The shoes had some black cloud patterns, and these were this year's All-Star Game shoes.
In addition, there were pure white, black shiny leather Knicks, and dazzling bright orange colorways.
The price of $149 was also more reasonable compared to the Jordan 17.
For every pair sold, Nike also made a charity donation to alleviate New York's public financial pressure.
The sneaker introduction was almost done, and Matt Parker, who came on stage next, didn't forget to introduce the follow-up promotional documentary:
"On February 9th, Clay Lee's personal documentary will air on ESPN. Nike hopes more people can learn about Lee's story!"
The documentary was interspersed with a lot of sneaker information, which was an alternative form of advertising.
The first generation of signature shoes was already prepared for another harvest, and new 'leeks' could be reaped.
New advertising posters for Lee began appearing outside Madison Square Garden.
The black cloud patterns on the sneakers had Asian elements, and this special colorway naturally received positive reviews.
The number of asian people in New York has gradually increased in recent years, with a significant change being the expansion of Chinatown, Koreatown and Indian Square, etc. pushing many Italian-Americans and others out of the city.
More and more Asians like to watch games at Madison Square Garden, and with the opening of the Asian market, Nike naturally wouldn't miss this opportunity.
On February 2nd, Ewing appeared at Madison Square Garden to cheer for his good friend Mourning.
The Kidney Warrior's return to the court, full of such spirit, was indeed admirable.
New York fans, for once, didn't mock their opponents.
With a score of 94:86, the Heat won, and the crowd also applauded Mourning.
Based on their current record of 17 wins and 28 losses, the Heat were likely to miss the playoffs.
Mourning's comeback failed to change the team's decline.
After the game, looking at Ewing's round, smiling face, Mourning felt a pang in his heart.
He naturally knew his career had begun to decline.
Looking at the six championship banners hanging above the Madison Square Garden, Mourning particularly longed for a championship at that moment.
In the next three games, the Knicks first defeated the Pacers, and then gifted a win to the Clippers on the road.
On the evening of the 7th, with a score of 86:98, they won big against the Atlanta Hawks at home.
Before the All-Star Game, the Knicks' record stood at 35 wins and 12 losses.
After losing to the Dallas Mavericks, the Nets' record became 32 wins and 15 losses.
Although the three-game difference was not large, it kept the Knicks firmly in the first place in the Eastern Conference.
In a game that also ended that day, the Washington Wizards defeated the Sacramento Kings at home.
With a record of 26 wins and 21 losses, although Michael Jordan's efficiency has declined, he has a great chance to lead the team into the playoffs this year!
The Sacramento Kings, who lost the game, had a record of 37 wins and 12 losses, currently ranking first in the Western Conference.
The Dallas Mavericks were second in the Western Conference with 35 wins and 14 losses.
Shaquille O'Neal was injured again, and after Kobe led the team to a loss against the Chicago Bulls, the Los Angeles Lakers ranked third in the Western Conference with a record of 33 wins and 13 losses.
The Knicks' dominance in the Eastern Conference was despairing, while the Western Conference began to intensely compete, further highlighting the East-West disparity.
For the Eastern Conference All-Star team, Vince Carter ultimately missed out due to injury, Jason Kidd moved into the starting lineup, and the outspoken Paul Pierce was added to the All-Star roster.
For the Western Conference All-Star team, Shaquille O'Neal also sat out due to injury, Chris Webber entered the starting lineup, and Elton Brand of the Clippers was added to the All-Star roster.
Michael Jordan was selected for his 13th All-Star appearance, and sports media recently began reporting on Michael Jordan's "great achievements."
On Friday, February 8th, Clay Lee and Grant Hill departed for Philadelphia.
The two chose to take a private jet, and Lee took the opportunity to advertise for American Express.
Compared to Lee, who was dressed in casual formal wear, pushing a small suitcase, and looking like a single man, Grant Hill traveled lovingly with his singer wife, Tamia.
After staying in New York for over a year, Tamia had also become familiar with Lee.
After the three greeted the media reporters, completed the photo shoot, and boarded the plane, Tamia, hugging Grant Hill, chuckled and teased:
"Lee, why didn't you bring a girlfriend with you? Do you have a date in Philadelphia?"
Lee leaned back in his seat, sighed comfortably, and with a look of melancholy, changed the subject, saying:
"I'm probably the most hated person in the hearts of Philadelphia fans. Every time I play at the First Union Center, the boos just don't stop."
"This year, I'm just going through the motions. I'm not interested in putting on a show for them amidst a chorus of boos!"
Tamia wasn't very familiar with the situation in Philadelphia, but Grant Hill chuckled as he listened:
"What Lee said is true, but I think this has something to do with New York fans. Neither side can stand the other, so getting this kind of treatment is understandable."
The "sinful" New York fans and New York Media ruthlessly stomped on fading stars, so Philadelphia's sports media naturally had to retaliate.
However, there was some disparity in influence between the two sides, and with the appearance of the "traitor" Stephen A. Smith on the other side, Philadelphia's counterattacks were usually all bark and no bite, only having local influence.
For this All-Star Game, Philadelphia fans naturally wanted to support their own stars.
Clay Lee was already prepared to be booed every time he touched the ball.
Tamia listened to her husband recount how the Knicks "bullied" Allen Iverson and soon burst into giggles.
This All-Star Game, Lee had walked right into a trap.
Compared to Lee, who planned to take it easy, Kobe, as "Philadelphia's child," naturally had to perform his best to win an award!
Returning to his "hometown" with Vanessa, Kobe felt a sense of triumphant homecoming.
Although he hadn't achieved too much, Kobe believed he was still better than Allen Iverson, after all, he had reached the Finals for two consecutive years, something many players never achieve in their entire lives.
In an interview with famous NBC reporter Rashad, Kobe was in high spirits and confidently stated:
"I love Philadelphia, this is my hometown! I'm very happy to be able to play in front of my hometown fans!"
"On Sunday, I will put on a wonderful game for the fans here, and I hope everyone can support me!"
"..."
As the core player of the host team, Allen Iverson didn't get a starting spot and was upstaged by another "Philadelphia's child," so he was naturally not in a good mood.
On the morning of the 9th, the NBA arranged for everyone to take their official photos.
The Western Conference All-Stars had no championships among them, and everyone wanted to sit in the front center spot.
On the Eastern Conference All-Star side, wearing their Knicks jerseys, Clay Lee and Michael Jordan both looked like big shots.
Without the photographer's prompting, they both sat down in the very front.
Lee originally wanted to hold the prop basketball, but Jordan raised an eyebrow and snatched the ball away:
"Five is greater than four, you have to sit to my left, and also, the ball must be in my hand!"
"Considering you're already 38, I'll let you have this one!"
Lee retorted casually, ignoring Michael Jordan, who was glaring in anger, and motioned for Grant Hill and Ray Allen to stand nearby.
There were naturally rules for taking photos.
Ray Allen cheerfully stood next to Michael Jordan, as he was a Jordan Brand star.
Grant Hill also stood with Lee, both belonging to Nike.
The four of them filled the front row where their sneakers could be seen.
Seeing this, Allen Iverson cursed inwardly and didn't raise any objections, dutifully squeezing to the front with the shorter players.
The tall players stood at the back, Michael Jordan and Clay Lee sat at the very front, one on each side, with bright smiles on their faces.
The host, Allen Iverson, wore a long face, and the photo was captured at that moment.
On the evening of the 9th, in addition to the Rookie Challenge and individual skills competitions, this year's Philadelphia All-Star Game also added some celebrity skills challenges.
The competition was divided into 4 teams:
Houston Rockets, International Team, Los Angeles Lakers, and Philadelphia.
Besides active NBA players, each team also included WNBA players, retired team legends, and famous artists.
Representing the Houston team were Cuttino Mobley, Tina Thompson, Kenny Smith, and actor Mick Fox.
The International team consisted of Hedo TĂŒrkoÄlu, Ticha Penicheiro, Sarunas Marciulionis, and Canadian actor Tom Cavanagh.
The Los Angeles team was composed of Derek Fisher, Lisa Leslie, Magic Johnson, and singer Brian McKnight.
The Philadelphia team's four members were Eric Snow, renowned female coach Dawn Staley, 76ers legend Moses Malone, and NSYNC lead singer Justin Timberlake.
Even before the game began, the First Union Center was buzzing.
Due to the lockout canceling Philadelphia's All-Star Game years ago, the city was particularly happy to host again after so long.
Clay Lee, who planned to slack off, primarily came to cheer on Ray Allen, who was participating in the Three-Point Contest.
Kenny Smith was practicing with a ball when he spotted Lee and immediately pulled him to the center of the court.
"Why didn't Charles come? Is that guy talking about Allen Iverson on the show again?"
Hearing Lee's words, Kenny Smith couldn't help but chuckle:
"Lee, do you watch our show every day? I'm going to tell everyone this good news!"
Lee glanced around, and indeed, didn't find Charles Barkley, so he smiled faintly:
"Your show is really good. Remember to tell Chuck to stop badmouthing me."
After chatting for a while, Kenny Smith introduced the people beside him.
Soon, Magic Johnson also called out to Lee from the other side, and at the same time, loudly teased the surrounding sports reporters:
"Come and take a photo of the greatest point guard in history!"
Clay Lee immediately walked over, embraced the Los Angeles Lakers legend in greeting, then put his arm around Magic Johnson and jokingly said to the surrounding sports reporters:
"5 is greater than 4, but I'm confident I'll snatch his title of greatest point guard in history!"
Although the Los Angeles Lakers lost twice in the Finals, Magic Johnson didn't mind and it didn't affect their mutual flattery.
After greeting "Little Fish" and the Sparks' female player, Tom Cavanagh also hugged Lee and chatted:
"Long time no see, Clay! It seems you're really unpopular in Philadelphia!"
Tom Cavanagh, who starred in "Ed," would occasionally watch games at Madison Square Garden, and the two had known each other since 2000.
Hearing the future "Reverse-Flash" tease him, Lee then noticed that some Philadelphia fans were starting to boo loudly again:
"I still prefer New York, where everyone cheers for me."
A youthful Justin was haphazardly dribbling a ball.
He then came over to them, saying with a troubled expression:
"I haven't had time to practice, I'm going to embarrass myself tonight!"
Lee looked towards the sidelines again, didn't see Britney, nudged Justin with his shoulder, and quietly teased:
"Didn't your superstar girlfriend come with you?"
Although the two had known each other for a long time, Justin never attended overly wild parties to maintain his good boyfriend image.
Every time he appeared at Madison Square Garden, Britney would be by his side, but hearing his girlfriend's name this time, Justin could only give an awkward smile and change the subject, saying:
"I'm planning to release a single this year, Lee, remember to come to my party then!"
"."
Allen Iverson watched from the sidelines, his eyes burning.
This was his home court, yet he could only watch Clay Lee greet everyone.
When Michael Jordan also appeared on the scene, he quickly joined in the lively conversation.
Only the 76ers' legends encouraged Allen Iverson.
Old-school coaches like Chuck Daly were busy chatting with Michael Jordan, and no one paid attention to the host city's star player.
The All-Star Game was also an opportunity to expand one's social circle, but Allen Iverson had more negative news than positive over the years, and he had also been dominated by Lee, so he was struggling to hold his own.
After the Rookie Challenge began, Allen Iverson still looked sullen on the sidelines, while Kobe Bryant, as a "Philadelphia kid," was very happy.
The hometown fans were indeed enthusiastic!
The Celebrity Skills Challenge was responsible for warming up the atmosphere.
Once the venue became lively, it was quickly time for the Rookie Challenge.
The Rookie class couldn't break the Sophomore team's dominance.
After the format change, this year's Rookie Challenge was still won by the Sophomore team.
Ultimately, Golden State Warriors' sophomore Rookie Jason Richardson lifted the Rookie Challenge MVP trophy.
When the Three-Point Contest began, Lee pulled his friends who had just finished the Celebrity Skills Challenge to cheer for Ray Allen.
As a result, his good friend choked, getting eliminated in the preliminary round.
Peja of the Sacramento Kings ultimately narrowly defeated his opponent to win the Three-Point Contest championship.
The Slam Dunk Contest was quite exciting, with Jason Richardson using a beautiful between-the-legs, reverse dunk to claim another Slam Dunk Contest championship!
On February 10th, the All-Star Weekend main event, before the game began, in the Eastern Conference All-Star locker room, Head Coach Byron Scott noticed Michael Jordan looked a bit sluggish, but still said with a smile:
"Once the game starts, let Michael Jordan take a few shots first. Kidd, Lee, show the Philadelphia fans your magnificent passing skills!"
Michael Jordan had been playing cards until late last night and had lost some money.
Although his physical condition was average, he still put on a brave front and waved his hand, saying:
"You don't need to give me special treatment, I'm not so old that I need to be fed the ball!"
Lee, sitting nearby, was full of energy.
Listening to the request from this Head Coach who had suddenly become a "sycophant," he ultimately gave him face:
"Don't worry, Coach! Kidd and I will control the pace of the game."
Kidd, who had secured a starting spot, was also very happy.
He bumped fists with Lee and readily agreed:
"Tonight, we'll play more fast breaks. Let's not worry about winning or losing, at least we should make the game beautiful!"
Grant Hill was just being a good guy in the locker room.
His task tonight was to make a few nice shots after his appearance and then quietly slack off.
Allen Iverson and Tracy McGrady wanted to perform to their hearts' content, but unfortunately, they were only substitutes.
Ray Allen had once again transformed into Michael Jordan's little fanboy, always engaging him in conversation, whether intentionally or not.
Despite playing at home, Dikembe Mutombo was not in high spirits, but fortunately, his good friend Mourning was there to keep him company.
As for the game's outcome, he didn't care much either.
As the All-Star Game began, when Clay Lee took the ball, a huge chorus of boos erupted.
Under such circumstances, after showing off two dunks and passing two balls to Michael Jordan, Lee started to slack off, haphazardly throwing three-pointers.
No one likes playing amidst boos, especially in an exhibition game.
Lee didn't try to steal the show.
After playing 6 minutes in the first quarter, he voluntarily asked to be subbed out.
After the Eastern Conference All-Star team's substitutes came on, they played with more effort than the starting lineup, while on the Western Conference All-Star team, Kobe Bryant became more and more excited!
Watching the Philadelphia fans boo Lee, Kobe Bryant felt an indescribable sense of satisfaction.
Ultimately, all the Eastern Conference All-Star starters slacked off, and with a score of 120:135, the Western Conference All-Star team secured a big win!
Allen Iverson, as the host, came off the bench and went 3-for-11, scoring 8 points.
With 12-for-25 shooting from the field and 7-for-7 from the free throw line, Kobe Bryant successfully lifted the AMVP trophy with a game-high 31 points.
Clay Lee stood behind, draped in a towel, occasionally chatting with Paul Pierce, Steve Nash, and Dirk Nowitzki, the Rookies.
Kobe Bryant, after receiving the trophy from David Stern, excitedly raised it again, only to be met with boos from the Philadelphia fans.
Turning his head, Kobe Bryant saw Lee behind him waving goodbye to the fans and slowly walking towards the player tunnel.
Holding the trophy, Kobe Bryant noticed the boos growing louder, as if no one cared about him anymore.
He felt a bit wronged for a moment, the smile vanished from his face, and he cursed under his breath:
"Shit! I'm the AMVP!"
....
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