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 😊
***
On June 2, 2002, the Western Conference Finals went to Game 7.
In this series, both sides fiercely competed, and the controversial officiating in Game 6 was discussed by commentators for days.
Throughout the series, the referees' whistles were very targeted, with the principle being to prolong the game and let the fans enjoy it!
The result of such officiating was that both sides were ultimately very dissatisfied.
Lakers fans believed that if there hadn't been referee assistance, the series would not have gone to Game 7 at all.
Sacramento Kings fans believed that if Game 6 had been fairly officiated, they would have already won the series 4:2.
Both sides argued endlessly every day, but putting aside the series outcome, the NBA was the big winner again!
Of course, the referees' officiating had a bias, but whether the opportunity could be seized still depended on the star players' quality.
After all, NBA games are not replayed, and complaining after the game is useless.
A champion is a champion, and competitive sports still depend on the result.
In the Eastern Conference Finals, the New York Knicks easily defeated their opponents by bus.
After returning to Manhattan, the coaching staff also faced a challenge.
This season, both the Sacramento Kings and the Los Angeles Lakers had a significant advantage when facing the New York Knicks.
In summary, their response was much easier.
Coach Tom, in his first season as Head Coach, led the team to the Finals, almost shedding tears of joy at the Eastern Conference Championship award ceremony a few days prior.
The Continental Airlines Arena had become New York's home court at the time, and the entire award ceremony concluded with laughter and joy.
Madison Square Garden welcomed another divisional championship banner.
The New York Knicks, in a rebuilding state, achieving such a record naturally made New York fans ecstatic.
Even the most demanding New York fans wouldn't ask for more.
Being overwhelmingly successful was the true portrayal of the New York Knicks in recent years!
The Los Angeles Lakers had no time to consider the Finals.
In Game 7, anything was possible.
Furthermore, this game was the Sacramento Kings' home court, and Coach Phil Jackson couldn't help but feel nervous.
If they fell in the Western Conference Finals, the team might immediately disband.
Sports media on both sides were still cheering for their home teams.
That evening, Sacramento Kings fans poured into the ARCO Arena early, and the shouts of over seventeen thousand New York fans didn't stop after the game began.
The Sacramento Kings led in the first half.
In the second half, Shaquille O'Neal was off, and the Los Angeles Lakers' role players stepped up under pressure.
After 48 minutes, both sides were tied 100:100.
In overtime, as Chris Webber suddenly faltered, Sacramento Kings fans gradually despaired.
112:106.
In Game 7, thanks to Shaquille O'Neal's strong performance in overtime, the Los Angeles Lakers won the game, 4:3, and once again advanced to the Finals!
Chris Webber, who shot 1-for-6 in overtime and scored 2 points, was particularly frustrated after the game.
This year was their best chance to win the championship.
They had the opportunity to win the Finals, but ultimately fell short.
The Los Angeles Lakers players celebrated wildly on the opponent's home court, while Phil Jackson let out a long breath, no longer thinking about the winding process—this was the result he wanted!
At the Western Conference Championship award ceremony, amidst the boos of Sacramento Kings fans, the Los Angeles Lakers players jumped and shouted joyfully.
Shaq was even more excited, constantly hugging his teammates.
Aside from still giving his juniors the cold shoulder, Shaq mostly behaved like a qualified leader.
After Phil Jackson lifted the trophy, he clapped and celebrated with a smile.
When the host handed the microphone to Shaquille O'Neal, the super center didn't hold back and continued to confidently boast:
"This year, I will bring the o'brien cup back to Los Angeles. The era of the Los Angeles Lakers is about to begin!"
"Scoring champion, rebounding champion, MVP, All-NBA team? I don't care. I just want to win the Finals!"
"Don't worry about our stamina. I don't feel tired. I will send the MVP home. For the upcoming Finals, I am ready!"
After saying these words, Shaquille O'Neal yelled loudly, holding the Western Conference trophy.
Having broken out of the Western Conference, he felt as if the Finals were beckoning him.
Because the Los Angeles Lakers had a worse regular season record, after finishing their Game 7 against the Sacramento Kings, they still had to fly to an away game.
On June 5th, Game 1 of the Finals officially began.
The New York Knicks had nearly a week of rest.
Recently, everyone had been training systematically and also accepting interviews with media reporters.
Although NBC had disagreements with the NBA regarding the broadcasting contract, the packaging of the Finals would not be neglected.
For the New York Knicks' new players, appearing on the Finals stage was definitely a highlight of their careers.
Pau Gasol felt immense pressure.
Not only New York sports reporters but also Spain's media had huge expectations for him.
Everyone knew that a Rookie player certainly couldn't limit Shaquille O'Neal, so most people expected to see what kind of statistics Pau Gasol could achieve against the super center.
As for Lee, making it to the Finals meant fulfilling his sponsors' requirements.
This year was another year of gains.
NBC sports reporter Jim Gray had been interviewing the New York Knicks for several years, witnessing Clay Lee's rise.
This year, when interviewing, the topics were no longer limited to the game.
On Monday afternoon, the 3rd, after Jim Gray had his media meal at the Tarrytown Training Center, he continued with his staff to complete the subsequent interview work.
When Lee arrived at the media room, he greeted the familiar staff.
Noticing Jim Gray was in good spirits, he went up to embrace him and whispered:
"It seems you're ready. Actually, I've always really liked NBC's broadcasts."
"I also don't want to change my work environment, but life must go on. I do hope NBC can renew the contract."
As a well-known reporter, Jim Gray could still find a good job even if he left NBC.
The two chatted about recent broadcasting contract gossip until staff reminded them, and then they moved on to the official topic.
"Five Finals appearances in six years. Under your leadership, the New York Knicks have tied the record set by the Celtics back then."
"Such an achievement is truly incredible, considering that eight-time championship Celtics team is now very distant from us."
"I noticed that the New York Times' recent front-page headline was 'On Par with Legends.' Lee, do you think you've reached another level?"
Having reached the Finals for five consecutive seasons, the New York Media naturally boiled over again.
Putting ancient basketball aside, such an achievement was certainly worth celebrating.
Lee, who benefited from the era, naturally didn't become arrogant.
After all, he still had to continue benefiting in the coming years, so at this point, he naturally expressed humility:
"There's still a long way to go to become a legend. In the New York Knicks' team history, we've also been to the Finals six times."
"And thinking about the Celtics' records, those are true legends. My career has just begun. No one knows what will happen in the future."
"Cherishing every game is what I should do. New York Knicks tickets aren't cheap, and New York fans buy tickets to support us, so I naturally have to meet everyone's expectations."
Recalling the high prices of regular tickets at Madison Square Garden, and the front-row tickets costing tens of thousands of dollars, Jim Gray also nodded with a smile.
No one likes to pay money to get beaten, and no one likes to pay money to witness failure.
Everyone agrees on this point.
"Let's talk about team culture. After Ewing retired, I noticed that many commentators didn't seem to like the New York Knicks' atmosphere."
"The tactical play is questioned, and the team culture also seems unlikable. Why is this happening?"
Jim Gray asked another sensitive question.
Los Angeles Lakers legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar still had a lot of prestige.
The all-time leading scorer had said more than once that "the New York Knicks play utilitarian basketball," and this view was shared by many.
The two had known each other for many years, and Lee didn't give a superficial answer when responding to this question.
Instead, he said earnestly:
"The New York Knicks' team culture has always been about pursuing victory. We serve the New York fans, and that has never changed."
"As for utilitarian basketball, what I want to say is that in professional sports, you must first have professionalism."
"I don't want to discuss the role of spirit in a game. As professional players, we earn a lot, and to win games, we must utilize players' strengths and avoid weaknesses."
"What professional players need to do is hone their skills and reduce technical shortcomings. Regardless of what spirit you possess, this is what players should do."
"In the New York Knicks, everyone works hard. Pursuing victory and big contracts is very normal. Playing basketball is our job, and in this regard, we are no different from ordinary people."
"New York fans buy high-priced tickets to watch games, and players must train hard to bring victory to the New York fans. This is our team culture."
Jim Gray smiled slightly upon hearing this and no longer discussed the topic further:
"What are your expectations for this year's Finals? The New York Knicks have many new players, which is definitely a challenge for you."
Lee shrugged his shoulders, showing a relaxed demeanor, and said calmly:
"Of course, I want to win. The current New York Knicks are very talented, and we are still in our ascending phase."
"Our opponent went through a Game 7, and what we need to do is protect our home court. I believe we can do it!"
"…"
The Lakers, who recently won Game 7, have brought up old issues again.
Phil Jackson, who hasn't won a championship in recent years, is now grandstanding about "sportsmanship."
"Playing for money will ultimately lead to failure," "Stats can't show our game," and "The Lakers' desire for victory surpassed their opponents'."
Phil Jackson and the Los Angeles media both chose the "spiritual victory method," never mentioning stats or reviewing the Western Conference Finals.
On the morning of June 4, the TNT trio didn't talk about "desire" but instead reviewed the Western Conference Finals using data.
Kenny Smith, as always, recited the players' stats without much commentary:
"In the Western Conference Finals, Shaquille O'Neal averaged 30.3 points, 13.6 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 2.4 blocks, with a 53.2% field goal percentage and a 63.8% free throw percentage."
"Over 60% free throw percentage, it seems Shaquille O'Neal is indeed refining his free throw technique."
Charles Barkley, still a loudmouth, offended Sacramento Kings fans from the start:
"I'm not surprised at all that Shaquille O'Neal put up those numbers against Vlade Divac and Chris Webber's Defense. The opponents were too soft!"
"In contrast, Kobe Bryant's performance didn't meet my expectations. Doug Christie definitely deserves to be on the All-Defensive Team."
He averaged 27.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.1 blocks, with a 41.9% field goal percentage and a 36.8% three-point percentage.
With more shot attempts than Shaquille O'Neal in the series, Kobe's efficiency dropped compared to the regular season.
The "OK" duo both played over 40 minutes per game, and Kobe's inefficient performance might also be related to his physical conditioning.
Ernie Johnson didn't want to hear the loudmouth criticize players anymore, so he quickly steered the conversation back to the main topic:
"Which team has the advantage? The Lakers have too little rest time. Will this affect the series' outcome?"
Kenny Smith nodded, analyzing seriously for the camera:
"The New York Knicks must seize this opportunity. If they protect their two home games and drag the series back to New York, I'm more optimistic about them lifting the o'brien cup again."
Charles Barkley glanced at his partner, then confidently told the camera:
"Physical conditioning is indeed an issue, but I believe the Lakers can win the game in 6. No one can limit Shaquille O'Neal. He will completely explode in the Finals."
"The Lakers' perimeter players just need to play good Defense, and I believe Coach Phil Jackson knows this. This year, they have a huge inside advantage."
Kenny Smith didn't expect his partner's loudmouth to predict the exact number of games, so he couldn't help but turn and retort:
"The New York Knicks can field an inside combination like Wright and Pau Gasol. They have a significant advantage in height."
Charles Barkley was unfazed, instead emphasizing again:
"Don't forget both of them are Finals Rookies. If Shaquille O'Neal is limited by them, he might as well retire now. The inside disparity between the two sides is too great."
"If he loses the Finals again this year, our show can save a spot for him!"
"..."
The Lakers, who had already flown to Manhattan, were brimming with confidence under the influence of Phil Jackson's rich chicken soup.
Shaquille O'Neal naturally knew this year was the team's best chance to win the championship.
He wouldn't encounter such an inside combination in the Western Conference, and he was ready to dominate!
In the Western Conference Finals, Kobe also had his highlight moments, but his overall performance in the series was average.
For the Finals, Phil Jackson had been serving him chicken soup daily.
That afternoon, after checking into the hotel, the "Kentucky Fried Chicken" old man proactively knocked on Kobe's door.
Seeing his Head Coach's smiling face, Kobe knew what he wanted to say:
"I know, I know how to win. I'll do my job, but I hope Shaq can also fulfill his promise."
"I really don't want to lose anymore. Now I just want to win the championship!"
Kobe expressed his stance to Phil Jackson, who had entered the room, while tidying his luggage.
Seemingly pleased with this attitude, the "Kentucky Fried Chicken" old man showed a kind smile again and proactively comforted him:
"Kobe! You must know how important a championship is to a player."
"To achieve greatness, to surpass Michael Jordan, championships are naturally indispensable."
"Trust me, this year is our best chance to win the championship. We even have the opportunity to start a Lakers dynasty. The Eastern Conference teams are completely uncompetitive!"
(A/N: Bah! Dreaming too much😂)
Nodding silently, Kobe said no more.
Phil Jackson patted his tool-man's shoulder with satisfaction, comforting him again:
"To win a championship, sacrifices are inevitable, Kobe. You have always been the perimeter core of this team. We need you!"
On June 5, the highly anticipated big-market showdown was staged again.
Both teams entering the Finals had popular star players.
No matter how much small markets complained, this was an undeniable fact.
All-Star voting represents a player's influence, and small markets are currently falling behind in all aspects.
The game that night officially started at 9 PM.
An hour before the game, NBC's studio in New York began pre-game coverage for the Finals.
Besides playing pre-produced interview clips and highlights of both teams, the main focus was on analyzing the series' trends.
Jim Gray was responsible for interviewing players from both teams.
Tonight's commentators, Marv Albert and Mike Dunleavy, sat on the court, discussing the two teams' preparations for the camera:
"The Lakers' stamina will be tested. They should slow down, be more patient on offense, and try to get the ball inside."
"I believe the New York Knicks won't miss this opportunity. They will try to speed up, which is what they do best this season."
"Kobe Bryant should be guarding Lee, which won't be an easy task."
Mike Dunleavy spoke eloquently to the camera, mainly discussing the advantages of both sides.
After Marv Albert nodded in agreement, he talked more about the deficiencies in both lineups:
"The New York Knicks' inside Defense will face a huge test. Pau Gasol and Knight performed poorly against Shaquille O'Neal in the regular season."
"And the Lakers' perimeter offense will be tightly guarded. In the Western Conference Finals, the Lakers' three-point percentage was only 27.6%. They must solve this problem in the Finals."
The New York Knicks' three-point percentage in the Eastern Conference Finals was also only 32.7%, so Mike Dunleavy still felt that the shooting difference between the two sides was not significant.
New York fans who bought tickets also entered the Madison Square Garden early.
Half an hour before the game, the arena was already lively.
Ewing, who had gained a lot of weight, was in a formal suit on the sidelines, encouraging Pau Gasol.
In this series, as long as Shaquille O'Neal's shooting percentage is kept at a normal level, the game is playable.
After both teams completed their introductions, Shaquille O'Neal, in a great mood, was warming up with the ball and didn't forget to go over to Clay Lee to brag:
"You better double-team me! That Rookie can't stop me from scoring at all. I'm going to win this year!"
Having come out of the Western Conference, Shaq was clearly brimming with confidence, grinning and talking non-stop, completely disregarding the New York Knicks' inside players.
"When your role players keep missing shots, I hope you can still smile then, Shaq. Be careful not to get the ball!"
Lee casually dribbled the ball and also started bragging.
The two of them chatted aimlessly in the middle of the court, which made the surrounding sports media itch with anticipation, as everyone wanted to hear some gossip.
As the game was about to begin, the noise in the Madison Square Garden grew louder and louder.
Head coach Phil Jackson was still a bit uneasy, pulling his players aside for last-minute instructions.
In contrast, Coach Tom Thibodeau sat steadily on the bench, seemingly confident about the game.
At the NBC commentary desk, the two naturally saw O'Neal's confident demeanor.
Marv Albert then chuckled as he introduced the Lakers' starting lineup:
"Phil Jackson has continued his playoff starting lineup. The backcourt is still Derek Fisher and Kobe Bryant, and the three frontcourt players are Rick Fox, Robert Horry, and Shaquille O'Neal."
"This starting lineup completed the comeback against the Sacramento Kings and is in excellent form!"
Mike Dunleavy watched Kobe, who had a buzz cut, continue his shooting warm-up with a grim expression, and commented again:
"In this starting lineup, Kobe also needs to find his rhythm quickly, otherwise the New York Knicks are very likely to start with a zone Defense to test the opponent's shooting touch."
"..."
Shaquille O'Neal seemed to have been heavily influenced by Phil Jackson's toxic chicken soup, but after the game started, he gradually felt that something was wrong.
With 6 minutes and 31 seconds left in the 1st quarter, the score was 16:16.
Both teams played very freely after the tip-off.
"Defense!"
Lakers' offense. Derek Fisher quickly dribbled past half-court, then immediately passed the ball to Kobe at the top of the arc.
As soon as Kobe received the ball, Ron Artest immediately stuck to him, constantly interfering with his hands and applying physical contact.
Kobe didn't stop the ball, immediately passing it to Fox, who had started from the baseline and moved to the right wing.
After a quick pass up top and a cross screen on the baseline, Shaquille O'Neal charged through, easily boxing out Pau Gasol behind him, and came to the right low post to demand the ball with his back to the basket.
Fox's pass quality wasn't high, and the lob's speed was a bit slow, but O'Neal, who received the ball, wasn't too affected.
He smoothly released the ball with his left hand and accelerated, driving hard towards the basket.
Carrying his defender, he broke through the baseline, then, before the restricted area, he leaned on Pau Gasol, who was sliding, and quickly spun towards the baseline.
O'Neal used his large frame to cut off the Defense, gathered the ball, switched to his right hand, and smoothly tossed the ball towards the rim.
"Bang!"
The layup, almost a Rolling to the basket, bounced off the rim, his first miss of the game.
O'Neal didn't even have time to crash the boards before Kurt Thomas, who had dropped back, successfully secured the rebound on the other side.
The Lakers' offensive pace was fast, but the New York Knicks' transition offense was even faster.
Lee received the ball near the right sideline, then immediately accelerated at full speed, pushing past Derek Fisher, who was sliding, and quickly sprinted past half-court.
After half a quarter of constant back-and-forth running, the Lakers' transition Defense speed clearly declined.
Near the right wing, Lee, while moving, quickly dribbled the ball behind his back.
Just as Derek Fisher shifted his body weight, Clay Lee suddenly changed direction in front of his body the moment the ball switched to his left hand.
Derek Fisher hadn't reacted yet when the basketball swept past him.
With a large change of direction, Lee, scooping the ball with his right hand, completely shook off his defender and accelerated again, driving straight to the basket.
The New York fans immediately cheered.
Kobe Bryant, rapidly chasing back on Defense, glared at Lee, who was nearing the restricted area, and tried to accelerate his defensive effort back to the basket.
Approaching the restricted area, Lee noticed the furious Kobe Bryant behind him.
After taking three large strides and leaping into the air, he didn't give Kobe Bryant a chance to block, and smoothly passed the ball behind his back while airborne.
Ron Artest, trailing behind, received the ball, pushed off Rick Fox beside him, grabbed the ball with his right hand, and scored with a glass-out layup!
16:18, the New York Knicks quickly counterattacked, scoring another 2 points.
O'Neal, who had just run back to half-court, couldn't help but stop, watched the Lakers inbound the ball, and then ran back to the frontcourt.
It was another quick pass up the court.
This time, after Kobe Bryant received the ball on the left wing, O'Neal immediately stepped up to set a screen.
At this point, the Lakers were playing a localized two-on-two.
On the other side, Derek Fisher pulled Lee to the corner, and Robert Horry also moved to the right elbow to create offensive space for his leader.
Under Ron Artest's harassment, Kobe Bryant drove left, using the screen to try and draw the Defense.
However, Pau Gasol kept dropping back, and O'Neal ran after setting the screen.
Kobe Bryant was momentarily guarded by Ron Artest, who had squeezed past the screen, right in front of him.
After just one lateral dribble, Kobe Bryant was met head-on by Kurt Thomas, who had come up from the free-throw line to help on Defense.
Under the combined double-team, Kobe Bryant nearly turned the ball over.
He managed to force a pass to Robert Horry, who was nearby.
The moment Robert Horry caught the ball and jumped to shoot, Grant Hill, who had come over to help on Defense, jumped up to interfere.
Kobe Bryant still wanted to crash the boards at this point, but Ron Artest hugged him, not giving Kobe Bryant a chance to rush into the restricted area.
O'Neal had already squeezed into the paint.
He didn't receive the ball, and when he looked up again, the ball hit the front rim and bounced directly into the arms of the retreating Kurt Thomas.
Derek Fisher was currently chasing hard, but Clay Lee had already started early, sprinting past half-court along the left sideline.
Kurt Thomas twisted his body and tossed a powerful pass, the ball flying directly towards the three-point line.
The moment Lee scooped the ball with his right hand, Fisher also caught up, squeezing to his left side, and actively interfering, giving him body contact.
As the two tangled and charged into the restricted area, Lee initiated the force, leaning into his defender while cradling the ball with his right hand, and then, with a burst of power, completely knocked Derek Fisher away.
"Ah!"
"The Fish" stumbled and fell directly to the ground.
Lee took three large strides, leaped up, grabbed the ball with one hand, and immediately delivered a powerful one-handed slam dunk!
"Boom!" A successful transition dunk!
16:20.
To the New York fans' jeers, Derek Fisher, wearing a headband, got up dejectedly. Phil Jackson immediately called a timeout.
O'Neal, walking towards the bench, was very displeased and loudly reminded Kobe Bryant:
"Pass the ball! You need to give me the ball immediately!"
Kobe Bryant wanted to say, "You need to play Defense," but Phil Jackson had already walked in front of both of them and quickly reminded them:
"Slow down. Don't keep running with them. Kobe, speed up your ball release!"
O'Neal, receiving the Head Coach's support, didn't even look at his younger teammate and went back to the bench to drink his oral solution.
Kobe Bryant had a sullen face and didn't say a word.
He hadn't expected the New York Knicks to occasionally double-team him.
On the New York Knicks' bench, Pau Gasol had looked quite disheveled since the start of the game.
The big man opposite him was much stronger, and he couldn't get past him when fronting and boxing out.
When O'Neal received the ball near the basket in the restricted area, he was immediately met with a thunderous dunk.
Even with full fighting spirit, the difference in physical strength still rendered Pau Gasol's Defense useless.
The Lakers only needed to lob the ball into the paint, and O'Neal would likely score easily.
Coach Tom Thibodeau didn't have many good solutions either.
The New York Knicks started the game with Grant Hill's screen-and-roll mid-range jumper in good form.
In terms of offensive stability, layups in the paint were still more reliable.
"Kurt, pay attention to your defensive position. Double-team when appropriate. Don't let them score too easily."
The New York Knicks were almost in a zone Defense.
After Tom Thibodeau's reminder, he still frowned, worried about Robert Horry's shooting.
Before going back on court, Lee clapped his hands again, no longer repeating defensive instructions, but instead loudly reminded them:
"When the opponent misses a shot, we must seize the opportunity to complete the offense. Be fast, don't hesitate. We need more possessions in this game!"
Finally, Lee patted Pau Gasol again and quietly reminded him:
"Don't worry about Defense. Protecting the rebound is the most important thing. Pay attention to the timing of your cuts."
Pau Gasol, who had completely become a background character, could only nod vigorously. In this series, he was quickly turning into a "paper man."
In the latter half of the 1st quarter, as Kurt Thomas began to help and double-team, the Lakers' inside-out plays also increased.
Kobe Bryant was no longer double-teamed, but he failed to capitalize on several screen-and-roll attacks from the elbow.
This time, the Lakers ran the same play again.
O'Neal received the ball at the left elbow of the free-throw line, while Kobe Bryant started from the left corner and quickly came up to receive a handoff.
O'Neal continued to cut quickly, and Pau Gasol naturally dropped back to defend.
Ron Artest also quickly squeezed through the screen.
Noticing Kurt Thomas shifting near the free-throw line, Kobe Bryant, as Ron Artest chased him to his side, quickly dribbled the ball behind his back.
The moment it switched to his left hand, Kobe Bryant suddenly executed a stylish pivot on his right foot, drifting slightly to the right for a fadeaway jumper!
"Bang!"
The move was extremely beautiful, but with Ron Artest's interference, the jumper still clanked off the rim.
After making two consecutive shots to start the game, Kobe Bryant suddenly lost his shooting touch.
O'Neal tipped the rebound in the paint, but Pau Gasol, with his long arms, managed to secure the ball again on his second jump.
The Lakers quickly retreated on Defense.
Clay Lee, after receiving the ball on the baseline, still accelerated and charged hard.
First, he executed a large crossover in front of his body, shaking off the tight-guarding Derek Fisher.
Lee then scooped the ball with his right hand and took long strides, chasing behind Derek Fisher's back as he sprinted past half-court.
O'Neal could only watch as Lee, starting later, overtook him from his side.
Rick Fox accelerated his defensive retreat from the left wing to the basket, attempting to make a defensive play.
Approaching the restricted area, Lee, while moving, suddenly pulled the ball back significantly with his right hand.
Rick Fox instinctively stopped and looked back at Grant Hill behind him.
Lee seized this opportunity, took three large strides, grabbed the ball with his right hand, and charged to the basket for an easy layup!
"Wow!"
20:26. The New York fans cheered loudly.
Although the anticipated scene of O'Neal dominating had appeared, the team didn't seem to be falling behind.
Ron Artest's defensive moves infuriated Kobe Bryant.
In several possessions, when he tried to chase back on Defense, Ron Artest would bump into him, pulling and tugging.
Since the start of the game, Ron Artest had been glued to him.
Kobe Bryant had no way to deal with this tough opponent.
It was even hard to get position for a low-post isolation.
In the final few minutes of the first quarter, the Lakers once again executed a brilliant play.
When O'Neal, who was drawing a double-team in the low post, passed the ball to the open Robert Horry, as long as the New York Knicks' Defense rotated, Rick Fox's drives and Derek Fisher's long two-point jumpers also helped the team score.
The New York Knicks, on their end, continued their fast-paced offensive strategy.
After Grant Hill brought the ball up to the left wing, Kurt Thomas immediately came up to receive the ball at the three-point line.
As Rick Fox followed Grant Hill towards the left corner, Ron Artest on the right wing also moved towards the right corner, simultaneously setting an off-ball screen for Lee.
Near the top of the arc, Clay Lee received a cross-court pass from Kurt Thomas.
Kobe Bryant also quickly chased after him, but before he could call out to his teammates, Pau Gasol also accelerated and came up.
Setting a high screen outside the three-point line, Pau Gasol's screen this time was extremely aggressive.
The tightly guarding Kobe couldn't squeeze through the screen immediately and could only chase behind Lee.
O'Neal's defensive position was a bit awkward.
He wanted to remind Derek Fisher, who was guarding the corner, to help on Defense, but Lee was too fast, and he instinctively shifted up, moving away from the basket.
Everyone on the Lakers' attention was focused on Lee, who was cutting in from the right wing.
As O'Neal was still shifting, Lee, while moving, smoothly tossed the ball towards the upper left of the rim.
Starting from the left corner, Grant Hill, who was cutting in quickly, rushed past Rick Fox, leaped high, easily scooped the ball in mid-air, and powerfully slammed it down with both hands!
"Boom!" A successful alley-oop dunk!
The brilliant teamwork made Phil Jackson frown from the sidelines.
This wasn't the pace he had envisioned for the game.
In the last two possessions, Shaquille O'Neal again completed a two-handed dunk under the basket.
But on the return, on a high pick-and-roll at the top of the arc, Kobe Bryant couldn't squeeze through the screen in time.
Shaquille O'Neal still remained stationary inside the three-point line, watching Lee, who was holding the ball in his left hand, suddenly stop short outside the three-point line and quickly jump-shoot!
"Swish!" The three-pointer swished through the net.
Madison Square Garden erupted again.
In the final 7.2 seconds of the first quarter, the Knicks pressed intensely.
As Kobe Bryant's long two-point pull-up jumper after dribbling past half-court missed, the score reached 26:32, with the Knicks leading by 6 points.
At the NBC commentary desk, Mike Dunleavy grimaced.
The Lakers played methodically, while the Knicks often just took the ball and attacked:
"Phil Jackson should find a way to slow down the opponent, and Shaquille O'Neal needs to participate in Defense. He can't expect his teammates to be in position every time."
Marv Albert wasn't surprised by the Knicks' game pace, merely praising Lee's performance:
"Clay Lee extended the team's lead. They have better stamina reserves, so getting more points with more possessions seems like a good option."
In the first quarter, Shaquille O'Neal was 5-of-7 for 10 points, Kobe Bryant was 3-of-7 for 6 points, and Derek Fisher and Rick Fox also scored.
Aside from Robert Horry not scoring, the Lakers' offense was very efficient.
Phil Jackson naturally knew where the problem lay and loudly reminded them during the break:
"We need to play tougher. Don't give the opponent easy scoring opportunities anymore!"
"We need to retreat on Defense quickly, Shaq, pay attention to your defensive position. If you choose to guard under the basket, execute it resolutely."
"Communicate, keep responding to each other!"
The Lakers also matched the Knicks' game pace, with possessions reaching 26, and only one turnover.
Phil Jackson disliked this kind of game, clutching his tactical board and loudly reminding his players.
On the other side, Tom Thibodeau didn't mention interior Defense this time.
The big man Knight came on, but he couldn't solve the problem against Shaquille O'Neal.
At this point, he simply emphasized loudly:
"Press the ball handler. Don't give the opponent easy passing opportunities!"
Shaquille O'Neal, who played the entire first quarter, was forced to rest, and the Lakers brought on their rotation lineup.
The backcourt became Lindsey Hunter and Kobe Bryant, while the frontcourt trio was Devin George, Samaki Walker, and Slava Medvedenko.
Phil Jackson had no choice but to let his starting lineup rest for 2 minutes, but seeing that the Knicks only subbed out Pau Gasol, he immediately felt things were going to be bad.
The Lakers started the second quarter on offense.
Lindsey Hunter received the ball on the baseline and was immediately defended by Lee, unable to pick up speed for a moment.
Lindsey Hunter quickly spun and switched to his right hand, shielding the ball with his side as he rushed past half-court.
On the right wing, Kobe Bryant wanted to quickly receive the ball, but Ron Artest continued to hound him, suddenly pressing up, and Lindsey Hunter, who had stopped dribbling, couldn't make the pass in time.
Instinctively twisting to protect the ball, Lindsey Hunter wanted to pass the ball to Devin George, who was moving to receive it on the left wing.
Before he could pass, Clay Lee seized the opportunity and forcefully swiped the ball.
The moment the ball was fumbled, Lee poked it forward with his right hand, immediately accelerated, and bumped past Lindsey Hunter, who was still trying to save the ball.
Regaining the ball with his right hand and pushing it forward, Lee completely controlled possession and immediately accelerated into a fierce drive.
Amidst the fans' cheers, in a 1-on-0 situation in the frontcourt, Lee jumped off two feet in the paint, pulled his right arm back with the ball, and delivered an tomahawk dunk!
"A brilliant steal! It seems the Lakers' bench lineup, who just entered the game, hasn't adapted to the game's intensity yet."
No sooner had Marv Albert finished speaking than Mike Dunleavy shook his head and added:
"Shaquille O'Neal needs to rest. In this lineup, Kobe Bryant needs to take on more offensive tasks, but this isn't a good option. The Knicks can freely double-team the opponent."
Soon, Kobe Bryant once again enjoyed the treatment of a core leader, demanding the ball with his back to the basket in the left block, while Ron Artest constantly fronted him on Defense.
Amidst their struggle, Lindsey Hunter again failed to complete the pass in time.
Kobe Bryant sensed something was wrong, quickly accelerated to the right wing, and finally received the ball, but Ron Artest still stuck to him relentlessly.
Medvedenko quickly came to the three-point line to set a screen.
All other Lakers players spread out, and Kobe was forced to put the ball down with his left hand.
The big man Knight had already come to meet him early.
While Kobe Bryant was still hesitating, he was trapped in a double-team again.
Forced to stop dribbling for a moment, Kobe Bryant felt arms all around his body.
The basketball, clutched in his arms, was suddenly pulled again, and he instinctively exerted force.
Ron Artest, fiercely trying to steal the ball, almost completed the steal.
Finally, the referee called a jump ball.
"Oh!"
The excellent Defense also made the New York fans cheer.
Ron Artest pounded his chest and yelled, appearing exceptionally excited.
On the jump ball at the free-throw line, Kobe Bryant glared at his opponent, but Ron Artest still tipped the ball first.
Lee immediately stepped forward to receive it, and players from both teams simultaneously sprinted toward the frontcourt.
Kobe, who immediately stepped up to delay, tried to slow down Lee.
Before they even crossed half-court, Lee suddenly passed the ball.
Grant Hill, who had already rushed to the right wing, immediately put the ball down with his right hand the moment he received it.
Facing Lindsey Hunter's Defense, he accelerated and drove strongly to the basket.
Samaki Walker, who had just retreated to the paint, came to his senses and saw Grant Hill already airborne.
He instinctively jumped to block, and then the referee immediately blew his whistle.
Foul.
Grant Hill stepped to the free-throw line.
Phil Jackson quickly made a substitution, no longer worrying about stamina, and immediately brought in Shaquille O'Neal.
Both free throws were made, and Madison Square Garden erupted again.
26:36, the lead reached double digits.
Shaquille O'Neal, back on the court, constantly signaled his teammates to slow down, but the Lakers repeatedly missed shots, giving the Knicks opportunities for transition offense.
Clay Lee and his teammates also quickly missed shots, and then the Lakers instinctively accelerated past half-court.
Both teams continuously ran on the court.
Shaq mostly followed the back-and-forth runs, occasionally getting a few easy dunk opportunities, but he couldn't slow down the game's pace.
With 2 minutes and 12 seconds remaining in the half, Ron Artest again got an open look in the right corner and angrily missed another shot.
The long rebound bounced out and was collected by Lee in the left block.
Kobe Bryant was disoriented from running and couldn't secure the rebound.
He cursed under his breath in frustration and quickly stuck to Lee again.
Lee directly passed the ball to Grant Hill, who was receiving it at the top of the arc, then suddenly popped out diagonally, using Kurt Thomas's screen on the right elbow, and quickly moved to the right wing.
Robert Horry reacted quickly, immediately chasing on Defense.
After receiving the ball, Lee made no adjustments, drifting left and quickly jump-shooting!
"Swish!"
The three-pointer swished through the net.
Robert Horry, who had stopped, was also stunned.
The Knicks were just playing wildly.
In the final 2 minutes, Shaquille O'Neal, who had been running back and forth, missed a few easy layups under the basket, and Kobe Bryant also missed shots.
Only Rick Fox managed to score on a transition attack under the basket.
Phil Jackson on the sidelines also noticed that his players' retreat speed was getting slower and slower.
He folded his arms, quietly waiting for halftime to end.
46:60.
Looking at the 14-point deficit, Shaq, who had started to pant, had a dark expression.
He didn't bother with his teammates and turned to walk towards the player tunnel.
Clay Lee played the entire first half but didn't feel tired.
He patted Tom Thibodeau, who had a serious expression, and comforted him in a low voice:
"Coach, don't worry about Defense. We can win the game tonight."
8-of-15 shooting, 3-of-7 from three-point range, 4-of-4 from the free-throw line, 23 points, 3 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 steal, 2 turnovers.
Tom Thibodeau naturally knew Lee's stats.
What he found absurd was that the Knicks had taken 47 shots in the first half, which completely contradicted his game plan.
The cheers at Madison Square Garden made Kobe Bryant's face look even worse.
He also didn't speak to his teammates and silently walked towards the player tunnel.
3-of-10 shooting in the first half, with only 8 points scored.
Kobe Bryant felt even worse thinking about Shaquille O'Neal's sour face.
On both sides of the player tunnel, Knicks fans held up whiteboards and swayed wildly to the music:
"Ron Artest — Kobe Bryant's Terminator."
Kobe Bryant, about to enter the player tunnel, saw the English on the whiteboard and then noticed someone else holding a poster of his "frustrated expression."
He couldn't hold it in anymore and kicked over the railing on one side of the tunnel:
"Damn game!"
.....
By the way, don't forget to throw power stones and leave a review to motivate me :)