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Chapter 37 - James Harden's True Colors

The 800,000 USD private training team was indeed professional. Before going to Las Vegas, Kayce had been constantly working and communicating with the training team.

"It's quite amazing, Kayce. Your detailed physical examination report shows that your metabolism is relatively fast. No wonder you have a big appetite. It seems we need to redesign your nutrition plan."

Wagner Phil, a professional nutritionist, had served athletes in many fields. In recent years, he wanted a more leisurely job and was recruited by the Ansell brothers to form a simple private training team.

"I think we need to have a small meeting. Kayce, your physical condition is excellent, and I've noticed your body's recovery ability is particularly good during these past few days of training. I have a bold plan."

Tony Ansell was the leader of this team, primarily responsible for the overall training plan and specializing in strength training.

"We should indeed plan in detail, but I think what Kayce should pay most attention to right now is body coordination. Tony, your early plan should focus on this, as his body is still developing."

Meg Ansell, Tony's younger brother, was a physical therapist with rich experience in athlete injury recovery and skilled at developing body coordination.

These three were the private training team Kayce had found through his agent Chapman's connections, for which he paid a hefty sum.

"Alright, guys, you're in charge of the training, and there's no rush for the plan. We can start training after I finish the Summer League. For now, let's grab some food; I'm starving."

Kayce quickly interrupted the three's debate. The physical examination had kept him busy for a whole day, and by now, he was famished.

"Okay, Kayce, but from now on, you should reduce some carbohydrate intake and appropriately increase some white meat. You can't just eat steak, and stop making your fried rice too. You love carbs too much!"

Wagner began to complain about Kayce's eating habits. The first time he saw Kayce eat, it almost scared him; he ate so much.

"No problem, you're the boss. As long as it's meat, I'm not picky." Kayce shrugged. It seemed he had to bid farewell to his self-made invincible seafood steak egg fried rice. Goodbye, my beloved carbs.

On July 10th, the Oklahoma City Thunder departed for the Las Vegas Summer League. Basically, the entire team consisted of G-League players, plus Kayce and Byron Mullens, who were drafted this year.

Byron was a typical big man player, slow-footed and a bit lacking in strength, but his height was good at 213cm. He was a backup interior role player selected by the Thunder in the first round.

However, he still had a 2-year guaranteed contract, so Byron was not flustered. He was much calmer than those G-League tool players.

Most players participating in the Summer League were trying to earn a contract, and the competitive pressure was immense, which is why players play so hard in these games.

"Kayce, remember to pass me the ball more tomorrow. If the Assistant Coach takes a liking to me, maybe I'll get more playing time next season," Byron quietly said to Kayce beside him.

"No problem, if there's an opportunity, I'll definitely deliver the ball to you. Don't worry, buddy." Kayce was currently playing point guard, so he basically had control of the ball. Only the Assistant Coach had come along, so he had a lot of say on the court.

After arriving at the hotel in Las Vegas, everyone had free time. After all, besides the games, one also had to enjoy life here.

"Kayce, you're finally here! Let's go, we have to party tonight!" James Harden's eyes lit up when he saw Kayce. His good brother had finally arrived; DeRozan was too boring.

"There's a game tomorrow, can you handle it tonight?" Kayce glanced at the smug Harden. This guy had just signed a contract, and his excitement hadn't worn off yet.

"No problem, it's just the Summer League. I can play casually. Let's go quickly, I've been cooped up for the past two days!" Harden had completely let loose.

"What about DeRozan? You didn't forget your brother, did you?" Kayce asked again.

"He wants to rest early. Sigh, you don't need to be so serious about the Summer League. The contract is signed, now's the time to have fun!" Harden pouted, a bit displeased with his good brother DeRozan.

"Then let's go! Let's relax tonight. Anyway, tomorrow's game is against your team, so at worst, I'll go easy on you. You've even started growing a beard!"

Kayce teased Harden with a grin. Anyway, he had the B-grade functional drinks from his Dream Space, so recovering his physical condition and stamina was no problem at all.

"Haha, did you notice the beard? Big beards are popular with women," Harden said, winking.

The next day, Kayce was fully revived through the B-grade functional drink from his Dream Space, his physical condition restored to its best. But he estimated Harden would definitely have weak legs today; big-booty girls weren't that easy to handle.

There were also quite a few spectators at the Summer League, as tickets were cheap. Many fans would specifically come to support their home team to see the hot draft picks of the year.

Kayce was warming up in his Thunder uniform, jersey number 10. Occasionally, he'd throw down a dunk, causing the crowd on the sidelines to roar with excitement.

Among a bunch of role players, he stood out. He was handsome and well-built. Although he had a buzz cut and hadn't shaved his beard, he still attracted the attention of the girls in the front row.

When he saw the Sacramento Kings players also come out to warm up, he searched for a while before finding a listless Harden on the sideline.

"Do you want me to go easy on you later? Your stamina still needs work; you're already done after one night!" Kayce walked up to Harden and teased him.

"Watch my eyes during the game. That girl yesterday was too much; it made me wake up in the afternoon." Harden admitted defeat; his legs were still weak.

"I understand, don't worry, Bro!" Kayce almost burst out laughing.

The game was about to start. The Thunder Assistant Coach directly said, "Run a few plays, keep the ball moving. Kayce, control the tempo. Go get 'em, boys."

The temporary live commentator also began introducing the players to the audience:

"Today we'll see a showdown between the number 3 and number 4 picks. Alright, the game begins!"

Byron tipped the ball to the Thunder. Kayce received the ball and slowly dribbled it past half-court. When Harden saw that he was matched up against Kayce, he was first startled, then relaxed, and winked at Kayce.

Kayce suppressed a smile and signaled Byron for a pick-and-roll. As a result, with one pick-and-roll, Harden was completely gone, and Kayce easily shot from beyond the three-point line.

"Swish!" The ball went cleanly through the hoop.

Good heavens, even if you're throwing the game, you should at least be serious! It seems Harden got a lot of 'training' last night. The big-booty girl's defense is commendable!

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