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 đ
***
On the evening of May 30, 2005, after Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals, the three commentators in the ESPN studio were still discussing the Seattle SuperSonics' victory.
Relying on a 26-36 run in the 3rd quarter, the Seattle SuperSonics ultimately defeated the San Antonio Spurs, bringing the series score to 2-2.
89-101. Despite Lewis's injury, the San Antonio Spurs still couldn't seize the opportunity and failed to secure a match point.
Core players always have breakout performances in a series.
Tonight, Ray Allen played 41 minutes, shooting 12 of 20 from the field, 3 of 7 from beyond the arc, and 5 of 6 from the free-throw line, scoring a team-high 32 points!
For the San Antonio Spurs, Duncan shot 10 of 19 from the field and 14 of 17 from the free-throw line, finishing with 35 points, 10 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 2 blocks, and 5 turnovers.
With their opponent missing a key starter, the San Antonio Spurs committed 20 turnovers, a statistic that is simply unacceptable for a championship contender.
The Seattle SuperSonics' perfect performance in the 3rd quarter was also inseparable from Luke Ridnour's play.
The second-year Rookie shot 7 of 7 in the 3rd quarter alone, including 1 of 1 from beyond the arc, scoring 15 points with 100% accuracy.
After the game, Head Coach McMillan couldn't stop smiling, repeatedly praising his players' performance:
"We overcame injuries! The guys are hungry for the championship, and now the series is a best-of-three. We are confident we can win the games."
In the studio, in addition to discussing McMillan's tactical adjustments, the three commentators were also criticizing Tim Duncan.
Host John Sanders has rarely made sharp comments on games since the Auburn Hills Palace incident led to complaints.
Stephen A. Smith, standing next to him, angrily lambasted Duncan with dramatic flair:
"When the team needed scoring the most, Duncan failed to step up."
"I know, maybe Gregg Popovich limited his playing time, but Duncan should understand that if they just win one more game, they can clinch the series."
"Now they've lost, and Game 5 will be completely different. Tim Duncan should tell the coach to let him play 42 minutes, not just 32 minutes."
The San Antonio Spurs only scored 14 points in the 2nd quarter, and they failed to respond in time in the third quarter, leading to their bench playing most of the final quarter.
A deficit of more than 10 points is an insurmountable gap for most teams, and the San Antonio Spurs were no exception.
Gregg Popovich essentially gave up tactically, and Duncan, who was suffering from plantar fasciitis, was not yet at the point of desperate effort.
Tim Legler, a white shooting guard who played many years in the NBA, naturally analyzed the game more reasonably than his partner:
"A series requires winning four games, and Tim Duncan's performance was excellent. Delivering such stats in limited minutes, we can't ask for more from him."
"In my opinion, the San Antonio Spurs' backcourt's terrible performance tonight was the reason for the loss."
"Tony Parker, Manu Ginobili, and Udrih combined for 10 turnovers. In a series like the Conference Finals, their performance makes it hard to win."
John Sanders wanted to take the opportunity to summarize, but Stephen A. Smith took over again, boastfully bragging:
"Losing is the leader's responsibility. Duncan should look at Clay Lee's performance in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals!"
"The Heat got 50 free throws throughout the game, and the referees even made a wrong call at the very end."
"Dwyane Wade had a chance to be the team's hero, but Clay Lee ended the game!"
"A steal, a super-long three-pointer, Clay Lee shattered the Miami fans' illusions, and the New York Knicks clinched a match point. They are about to achieve the accomplishment of winning the Conference championship for 8 consecutive years!"
"Mourning was right, NBA players are human, they are not superheroes, but what do we want to see?"
"We want to see superstars deciding games in clutch moments, we want to see their incredible performances!"
"Clay Lee is worth his contract, he brings more to New York, so we will vote for him. If Tim Duncan continues with this basketball attitude, then he will gain nothing."
John Sanders helplessly glanced at the bigmouth beside him.
He didn't want to label Duncan:
"We did see Clay Lee's desire for victory. The New York Knicks' excellent record in recent years almost made everyone forget that he is the most lethal killer in the league."
"The Seattle SuperSonics' injuries will affect their strength, but the San Antonio Spurs still have a huge advantage."
"Physical health is becoming more and more important. We hope both teams that make it to the Finals can stay healthy!"
On May 31st, Sport Center continued to review Clay Lee's highlight plays from this season's playoffs.
Dwight Howard, who was dunked on, and Dwyane Wade, who was stolen from and game-ended, were brought up again.
By the end of the season, these two would appear again in the top 100 plays of the season.
From another perspective, this is also a good thing for Rookie players.
Being Clay Lee's background can make them remembered, something faded players like Allen Iverson and Kobe Bryant don't have the chance to do.
Tonight, Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals will be played.
The New York Times didn't forget to continue attacking their opponent, specifically choosing a photo of Dwyane Wade lying on the free-throw line with his hands covering his face, and Clay Lee roaring in celebration after his game-winner:
"Crying Miami!"
"GOAT welcomes all challenges!"
"Following the Celtics, the most dominant team in the NBA is about to emerge!"
Sports media went wild with praise, even predicting a championship.
After tying the record, New York fans could rightfully declare:
"This is the New York Knicks' era!"
The Miami Herald was still criticizing Shaq's post-game comments.
With the series over, fans needed to vent their emotions.
In Game 3, Shaq played 41 minutes, shooting 9 of 15 from the field and 8 of 12 from the free-throw line, finishing with 26 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 block, and 3 turnovers.
Dwyane Wade, who executed the final possession, almost broke down in tears after the game and apologized to the fans.
Shaq, however, didn't show as much emotion as his younger teammate.
When he attended the press conference, he simply stated calmly:
"I've witnessed Clay Lee's crazy performance in the Finals. I'm not surprised by this result."
"This is the price of growth. Dwyane Wade played very well. He scored a team-high and only had 3 turnovers in the game."
"As a second-year Rookie, Dwyane Wade's performance is historical. He's much stronger than Kobe Bryant at the same stage. Our combination will succeed."
These words annoyed Miami fans.
A losing Shaq should empathize with them, not make indifferent remarks after the game.
The Miami Herald's columns these past two days no longer discussed the series outcome.
Besides giving fans false hope, they were just criticizing Shaq.
If they had managed to win one road game, how could they have ended up in such a passive situation?
The Heat played very well.
50 free throws were indeed outrageous, but they only committed 9 turnovers in Game 3.
Eliminating the Detroit Pistons was certainly not a fluke.
At least in some aspects, they already possessed the qualities of a championship team.
Dwyane Wade, who had been a background for two days, was naturally in a bad mood.
Turning on the TV to any mainstream sports channel, he would see himself lying on the floor with his hands covering his face.
He had indeed become famous.
Even fans who didn't follow NBA games and only watched highlights knew that Dwyane Wade had turned the ball over and been game-ended.
Playing 42 minutes, shooting 10 of 25 from the field and 12 of 18 from the free-throw line, with 32 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, and 3 turnovers, Dwyane Wade's performance in Game 3 was perfect.
In the afternoon, as the Heat warmed up, Mourning was also in low spirits and no longer accepted interviews to promote the Heat's basketball philosophy.
Dwyane Wade was stretching with the help of the medical team.
His knees were giving out, and his aggressive drives to the basket had put a huge strain on his body.
As the warm-up ended, Dwyane Wade stumbled slightly.
He knew that in such a physical state, it would be even harder to limit Clay Lee.
Shaq was still the same.
Shaq seemed to have become thick-skinned, calmly accepting defeat, looking as if he had lost so much that he was numb.
His warm-up consisted of practicing free throws.
Considering how many times Shaq had lost to Lee, TNT reporters understood Shaq.
A player doesn't experience many Finals in their entire career, and Shaq, in his prime, continuously lost to the same opponent.
Anyone would become numb.
Sports media gathered around Dwyane Wade, noticing his limp, and someone immediately asked:
"Dwyane, affected by your knee injury, will you still start tonight?"
Coming back from a 3-0 deficit is very rare.
Dwyane Wade had been in low spirits for the past two days, and when talking about the game, he lacked the passion of earlier days:
"I promise the fans that as long as the series isn't over, I will continue to play."
"The Heat won't give up either. We will fight for the fans."
Everyone looked at Dwyane Wade's youthful face and couldn't help but think of the previous shooting guard who was dominated by Clay Lee, Allen Iverson.
The 76ers were once glorious, and Allen Iverson even won the scoring title over Clay Lee.
However, years passed, and the 76ers had already started to 'trust the process,' establishing a new core and embarking on a rebuilding journey.
A Yahoo Sports reporter felt that Dwyane Wade had the potential to take over Allen Iverson's mantle.
Both are shooting guards, both wear jersey number 3.
Perhaps this is Lee's future opponent:
"Good luck, Dwyane! Don't give up, this is only your second season in your career."
"?"
Dwyane Wade heard this comfort and looked puzzled.
This season, he had already been very successful, and the Conference Finals was a height many players could not reach.
Amidst everyone's comforting words, Dwyane Wade still felt bewildered as he left.
The New York Knicks, who had secured the match point, were all smiles during their afternoon warm-up.
The shooting practice even turned into a betting game, with everyone shouting and throwing from mid-court.
Not only were the players happy, but the coaching staff also participated.
No one was worried about the outcome of the series.
Even if they lost tonight, they still had a two-game lead.
Without any pressure, it was natural to let loose.
Lee didn't participate in the betting game.
In the past, everyone would invite him to play a few rounds, but ever since his long-range three-pointers became more accurate, no one offered him money anymore.
During the warm-up, Lee practiced free throws with the injured Hill.
In the game the night before, his performance at the free-throw line did not meet expectations.
14 of 25 from the field, 4 of 9 from beyond the arc, 10 of 12 from the free throw line, 42 points, 7 rebounds, 10 assists, 2 steals, 2 turnovers.
As this series progressed, Lee's free throw percentage reached 90.3%.
He always demanded strictness from himself, and losing two free throws was truly unacceptable.
"Strong matchups" also had their benefits.
Continuously guarding core players, [Gary Payton's Extraordinary Defensive Agility] had disappeared.
This talent was digested extremely quickly, and Lee didn't feel too many changes in his body.
He had thought that with the talent's boost, he could win the "Most Beautiful Calves Award," but unfortunately, his body became bulkier, and his leg lines became more muscular.
Before the interview, Hill was still chatting with Lee.
Both of them felt that fishing in Miami was quite good and suitable for family outings.
The ESPN reporter only heard phrases related to fishing in Miami and immediately felt that he had a big scoop.
As the broadcaster, TNT saw Lee approach the crowd and immediately asked as they gathered around him:
"Clay, what are your thoughts on the G3 referee report?"
The NBA would admit to incorrect calls after the game, but this kind of hindsight was actually useless.
After all, the game was over.
They couldn't replay it just because of one call.
"Not bad, at least it proves my feeling was right. But that game is in the past. We have secured match point, and it's time to look forward."
Lee couldn't stop the referees' dramatic antics.
The New York Knicks also got 41 free throws, so overall, the balanced officiating was quite reasonable.
Seeing that Lee was in a good mood, a Yahoo Sports reporter quickly spoke up and asked:
"Having won the Eastern Conference championship for eight consecutive seasons, Lee, do you think the New York Knicks have a chance to break the record set by the Celtics?"
Suddenly fast-forwarding to next season, Lee raised an eyebrow, not taking the bait:
"I don't know. No one can predict what will happen to a team next season."
"Basketball is round, anything is possible. Injuries, personnel changes, all will affect the record."
"If the Eastern Conference teams remain the same, perhaps we will continue to win the Conference championship. You know, the dividends of the era."
Everyone laughed along.
This was an excuse often used by commentators and also strong "evidence" to question the New York Knicks' championship quality.
Before the game started at 8 PM that night, Heat fans who arrived early saw TNT staff preparing a simple awards ceremony.
The Conference champions also received a trophy.
Many ticket-holding fans were frustrated seeing the opposing team receive an award on their home court.
Pat Riley sat expressionlessly in the front row below the basket.
The slick-haired famous coach had not accepted interviews these past few days, nor had he criticized Shaq again.
He was very satisfied with Dwyane Wade's performance in the series, but Stan Van Gundy's in-game adjustments made Pat Riley secretly frown.
To achieve victory, one must not only be harsh on oneself but also demand strictness from players and train them rigorously!
Stan Van Gundy was too accommodating to Shaq's emotions.
After this Conference Finals, Pat Riley felt that perhaps he should take over as Head Coach.
Before the game, a dejected Dwyane Wade didn't even do pull-ups on the rim, quietly waiting for the tip-off.
Heat fans were still cheering loudly for their home team to win big.
However, to everyone's disappointment, Dwyane Wade was bumped out of bounds by Clay Lee during a drive in the second quarter and could no longer continue the game due to a knee injury.
He played 22 minutes, without resting in the first quarter.
As he left the court, he limped towards the player tunnel, and fans on both sides applauded him.
The director also timely focused the camera on Dwyane Wade, who refused the staff's help and slammed his jersey on the ground.
Constantly wiping away tears, Dwyane Wade, walking towards the locker room, found it hard to accept such a way of exiting.
He was disappointed with his knee.
Without their perimeter core, the unified cheering in American Airlines Arena gradually turned into noisy shouts and curses.
After Kenyon Dooling came on, Lee still faced double teams, but the defensive pressure significantly decreased.
The New York Knicks had been off-target from beyond the arc for two consecutive games, but tonight, everyone found their rhythm again, and with the outcome largely decided, they all unleashed powerful attacks.
Raja Bell repeatedly hit three-pointers from the left corner, and Derek Fisher, who came off the bench, also made jump shots from the top of the arc one after another.
Towards the end of the third quarter, even Barnes, who came off the bench, seized open opportunities, continuously converting Lee's assists into points.
By the final quarter, Shaq had already changed into his clothes.
He didn't intend to play during garbage time.
As game time elapsed, the cheers in arena grew louder, while disappointed Heat fans maintained their traditional virtue of leaving early.
With just over two minutes left in the game, New York fans in the American Airlines Arena celebrating wildly.
They had tied an incredible historical record!
When the final buzzer sounded, the score was set at 112:87.
The New York Knicks swept the Heat, advancing to the Finals once again.
Clay Lee only played 32 minutes, easily putting up a double-double with 32 points, 5 rebounds, 14 assists, 2 steals, 1 block, and 2 turnovers.
With the front-row fans having left early, American Airlines Arena appeared somewhat empty.
Shaq disliked this home court atmosphere.
Noticing Pat Riley still sitting expressionlessly in the front row, he secretly pouted and quickly walked over to Lee:
"Lee, congratulations! It looks like you're going to win another championship. The San Antonio Spurs are no match for you."
"Only God knows the outcome! Stay healthy, Shaq, maybe we'll meet again in the Conference Finals next year."
Lee patted Shaq, who didn't show any pain, but instead continued to brag with a smile.
Dwyane Wade lost in such a big game for the first time.
He disliked Shaq's attitude.
When he approached Lee, he forced himself to say with a stern face:
"I will win it back!"
Seeing his serious attitude, Lee smiled with satisfaction.
It had been a long time since anyone had thrown such a challenge at him:
"I like players with fighting spirit! The future belongs to the young. Perhaps you can consider training with Tim Grover."
Looking at Lee's retreating figure, Dwyane Wade showed a thoughtful expression.
Going to that renowned trainer for guidance would be very expensive.
However, thinking about his physical condition, Dwyane Wade secretly resolved to undergo special training during the offseason.
He also wanted to become as strong as Lee.
"MVP! MVP! MVP!"
Without the interference of Heat fans, Lee's fans cheered to their heart's content, beginning to enjoy this victory night.
Soon, TNT staff brought out the golden spherical trophy.
On the New York Knicks' side, the coaching staff and personnel distributed championship hats to everyone.
As Craig Sager handed the trophy to Mike D'Antoni, a cheer erupted in the Madison Square Garden the moment Mike D'Antoni hoisted the trophy.
"Wow!"
Compared to Lee, Mike D'Antoni was even more excited.
A three-peat was within reach, and he was about to become a legendary Head Coach!
Mike D'Antoni's face was flushed.
After repeatedly raising the trophy, he finally calmed down, handed the trophy to Lee, adjusted his red tie, and then took the microphone, saying excitedly:
"These have been three incredible years for me. Coaching a championship team is difficult, but luckily, I met Clay Lee!"
"Even now, I cannot describe Lee's impact on the game. He changed modern basketball. He ushered the NBA into the era of perimeter play."
"."
Craig Sager hadn't even asked a question, and Mike D'Antoni couldn't stop praising.
The New York fans present jumped and cheered.
Lee casually handed the trophy to his nearby teammates, and a smile appeared on his face as he listened to his Head Coach's flattery.
With the Conference championship in hand, a thought crossed his mind, and Lee's smile grew even brighter:
[Dwyane Wade's Extraordinary Acceleration]
"."
.....
By the way, don't forget to throw power stones and leave a review to motivate me :)