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Dragon Emperor in Pokemon World.
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***
On the evening of May 26, 2001, at the First Union Center, Philadelphia fans could only watch in frustration as the point differential gradually widened.
The New York Knicks, despite leading by 16 points at halftime, did not relax.
Instead, relying on "savage" Defense, they completely stifled the 76ers' offense.
Fans who expected a comeback in the second half were also disappointed.
Allen Iverson exploded in the third quarter, scoring 11 points on 3-of-8 shooting and 5-of-7 from the free-throw line.
Unfortunately, with a single quarter score of 27:20, the score was set at 83:60 after three quarters, and the 76ers were powerless to turn the tide.
It was only a matter of time before the Knicks secured the series point, and there would be no miracles in the series.
"Referee Sucks!"
Many Philadelphia fans were still blaming the referees.
The excessive physical contact in this game caused Allen Iverson to lose his shooting touch.
At the commentary booth, Bob Costas noticed that Jeff Van Gundy began to substitute in more of the bench lineup, knowing that the New York Knicks were preparing to call it a day:
"With such a point differential, it's almost impossible for the 76ers to come back and win."
"The New York Knicks have secured the series point, and Game 4 will be played the day after tomorrow, leaving them little time to adjust."
Doug Collins also couldn't say too much at this point.
In his opinion, the 76ers making it to the Conference Finals was already a great success.
However, Philadelphia fans were clearly not satisfied with this result.
With the series outcome already decided, they could only go along with the narrative:
"In his first professional appearance on the Conference Finals stage, Allen Iverson performed very well, and both fans and management need to be patient."
"The path to contending for a championship will always face setbacks, which is also a form of tempering for young players."
"..."
During the break, the New York Knicks players began to celebrate their series victory.
Toni Kukoc, who hadn't had a chance to play, couldn't help but smile as he took off his warm-up jacket, ready to enter the game.
Making it to the Finals is always a good thing!
After Clay Lee scored 16 points in the second quarter to help the team establish a lead, he focused more on controlling the game's tempo in the third quarter.
In the last quarter, Lee only played 4 minutes and 32 seconds, adding some more stats.
As Head Coach Larry Brown substituted most of the starting lineup, the 76ers officially conceded defeat.
"Boo!"
Cursing and booing once again echoed throughout the First Union Center Philadelphia fans also disliked losing.
Having bought tickets to watch the game, only to witness a rout, most fans couldn't accept it.
Jeff Van Gundy happily embraced the players coming off the court.
The Bald Young Coach had set some young records this year, and the league's strongest Champion Coach was none other than him.
"Good job!"
Lee also patted Artest, who was about to re-enter the game.
His scoring efficiency was indeed lacking, but his defensive willingness was the best on the team.
This was also a result of differentiated competition.
Even with Grant Hill's ankle still recovering, relying on his richer game experience and ball-handling ability, he was still more competitive than a Rookie.
Encouraged, Ron Artest was in a great mood.
He had wanted to play like this for a long time, but most of the time his shooting was disappointing, and he didn't get many opportunities:
"Next game, I'll show them! I can lock down that Sixth Man of the Year!"
Aaron McKie shot 3-for-5 from beyond the arc, a truly good performance.
The two frequently exchanged words during the game, and the vengeful Ron Artest thought the opponent was a weakling, preparing to strike hard again in Game 4.
Lee smiled and nodded.
He also knew that this Rookie was more eager for attention, and this was worth encouraging.
On the other side, Allen Iverson and Erik Snow both looked dazed after coming off the court.
Playing with injuries seemed to have not earned them respect.
The scattered boos were directed at the home team.
Facing an imminent sweep, Philadelphia fans couldn't "trust the process," and more people began to question the core players.
The final 3 minutes of the game quickly elapsed, ending 109:89, as the New York Knicks decisively defeated their opponent and successfully secured the series point.
Iverson, draped in a towel, walked towards the player tunnel without looking back.
This was not the Eastern Conference Finals he had expected.
In 44 minutes, he shot 10-for-30, 0-for-6 from three-point range, and 9-for-13 from the free-throw line, tallying 29 points, 4 rebounds, 6 assists, 1 steal, and 3 turnovers.
Head Coach Larry Brown sighed inwardly as he looked at the box score, then turned to Jeff Van Gundy, who was walking towards him with a bright smile, and couldn't help but inwardly complain:
"Lucky guy!"
The two renowned coaches shook hands in greeting.
On the other side, Ewing, who was hugging everyone, didn't forget to comfort his friend Mutombo:
"You did your best, Bro! No need to blame yourself, I've prepared Finals tickets for you!"
"..."
Shooting 5-for-13 and 5-for-8 from the free-throw line, Dikembe Mutombo tallied 15 points, 14 rebounds, and 1 block.
Despite the numbers, he was still somewhat disappointed by the loss.
Hearing the Gorilla's comfort, he immediately punched him twice.
Allen Iverson did not accept the sideline interview, so NBC reporter Jim Gray interviewed Lee instead.
The two were old acquaintances.
Before the camera lights came on, Jim Gray and Lee hugged and congratulated him:
"Standing on the Finals stage for four consecutive years is truly an incredible achievement!"
Hearing the other party's words, Lee laughed heartily, automatically ignoring Game 4, and quipped:
"This is the Eastern Conference, and I like this competitive environment!"
Several staff members around them also laughed.
Everyone had witnessed the New York Knicks' dominant performance in the playoffs.
In Game 3, Clay Lee played 39 minutes, shooting 12-for-23, 4-for-8 from three-point range, and 7-for-8 from the free-throw line, tallying 35 points, 5 rebounds, 10 assists, 2 steals, and 1 turnover.
Jim Gray did not kick him while he was down by maliciously comparing Iverson's and Lee's statistics.
Most of the interview consisted of official questions and pleasantries.
When asked about the upcoming games, Lee simply replied calmly:
"The New York Knicks are ready. We will end the series as soon as possible and then focus on the Finals!"
On the morning of May 27, most sports media began to preheat for the Finals.
For Game 4 between the Lakers and the San Antonio Spurs that evening, the commentators' opinions were consistent:
"Sweeping to advance."
Playing at home, the Lakers lived up to expectations, starting the game with overwhelming momentum and dominating their opponent throughout.
Ultimately, 82:111, the Lakers once again decisively defeated the San Antonio Spurs, sweeping them and winning the Conference Championship.
A disheartened Duncan scored only 15 points on 5-for-10 shooting, while Glenn Robinson contributed 12 points on 5-for-16 shooting.
The Lakers' Derek Fisher, however, tore apart the San Antonio Spurs' perimeter, playing 41 minutes, shooting 11-for-13, and an incredible 6-for-7 from three-point range, with an 80% shooting percentage, scoring a team-high 28 points!
O'Neal had a double-double with 26 points and 10 rebounds on 11-for-19 shooting.
Kobe filled the stat sheet with 24 points, 6 rebounds, 11 assists, 2 steals, 1 block, and 2 turnovers on 10-for-19 shooting.
Lakers fans were ecstatic.
With a playoff record of 11:0, Shaquille O'Neal had delivered on his promise!
At Staples Center, when O'Neal lifted the Conference Championship trophy, the stadium erupted in cheers.
Phil Jackson felt the team was hitting its stride and applauded with satisfaction from the side.
Witnessed by nearly 20,000 fans, Shaquille O'Neal took the microphone, handed the trophy to Kobe, and said with a serious expression:
"11:0, this is just the beginning. This year, we're sending the MVP home, and the Lakers' era has arrived!"
"Wow!"
Los Angeles fans loved this.
The more Shaquille O'Neal boasted, the happier everyone became.
Kobe also wanted to say a few words.
With multiple games shooting over 50%, he had truly delivered on his talent this year.
However, seeing O'Neal talking non-stop with the microphone and the fans actively responding, Kobe could only wait on the side, holding the trophy.
The Los Angeles Media all loved O'Neal's speech.
This season, the teams in the Western Conference were all very strong, and achieving this record was enough to demonstrate the Lakers' dominance this year!
On May 28, the TNT program invited Kevin Johnson, who officially retired from the Phoenix Suns in March this year, as a guest.
In the studio, after the four discussed the Lakers' situation, they began to preheat for tonight's Eastern Conference Finals Game 4.
"Leaning on the big guy" Charles Barkley was somewhat reserved when he met his old teammate, and with Kenny Smith constantly teasing him, this episode almost turned into a Phoenix Suns memoir.
Ernie Johnson, out of helplessness, had to proactively bring up the topic:
"Kevin, what are your expectations for tonight's game?"
Kevin Johnson, who had just been teasing Barkley, reined in his smile upon hearing the question, and after a brief thought, answered seriously:
"The New York Knicks will end the series. Clay Lee won't waste the opportunity, and most importantly, after the Lakers sweep their opponent, he will respond!"
Kenny Smith also stopped teasing his partner and followed up with a serious question:
"Kevin, from your personal perspective, what do you think is the difference between Iverson and Lee? You have played against both, and we would like to hear your thoughts."
Although the question was somewhat impolite, Kevin Johnson answered frankly:
"Firstly, their physical conditions are completely different. It's very difficult for a small player to establish themselves in the league, and Allen Iverson has done very well."
"Clay Lee is different. We can see that his body has become stronger in recent years, and his speed, explosiveness, and other aspects have also significantly improved."
"I believe Clay Lee has not yet faced a true challenge in this year's playoffs. When he steps onto the Finals stage, perhaps his statistics will explode even further."
"Another difference lies in their understanding of the game. The New York Knicks' offensive tactics are very varied, and it is said that many tactical designs incorporate Lee's input."
"Pick-and-rolls, fast breaks, and isolation plays in mismatches—Allen Iverson's grasp of these aspects is not as good as Clay Lee's. His weaknesses have been magnified, but I greatly admire his fighting spirit!"
Charles Barkley, at this point, reverted to his usual outspoken self, immediately taking over the conversation and loudly quipping:
"There's nothing to analyze. Clay Lee completely dominated Allen Iverson. It should be said that Clay Lee dominated all backcourt players in the league."
"I have a lot of respect for players who play hard, but that's just how NBA games are. Nobody sympathizes with the weak. If I were Lee, I would mock my opponents twice as much on the court and completely blow them out!"
"Clay Lee has already blown out all his opponents so far! I think he has higher aspirations!"
"After Michael Jordan defeated you guys in '93, he could have continued to contend for the championship."
As Kenny Smith's voice trailed off, the two on the other side chuckled.
Soon, Charles Barkley whispered,
"Michael Jordan had reason to be tired. The Eastern Conference was very strong back then, and he was under more pressure."
"But now it's completely different. The Knicks, led by Clay Lee, can easily get 60+ wins in the Eastern Conference."
"I don't think he feels any pressure at all!"
"He can make it to the Finals every year, he's praised by the New York Media every year, and he gets a lot of money every year. God! Is there anything better than this?"
Charles Barkley's voice grew louder and louder as he spoke, finally throwing his hands up in jealousy, causing the three to burst into laughter.
After laughing, Kevin Johnson also gossiped,
"I think Clay Lee does have different aspirations. As an investor, he made a lot of money last year."
"After that, he only invested in one property and didn't squander it, though that house was indeed very expensive."
"He has a good relationship with New York City officials and actively participates in some political activities. He is also currently studying law. I believe Clay Lee has set an example for players."
"I've always wanted to change people's stereotypes about athletes, so after I retire, I plan to study political science. Basketball players aren't just about the game. That's absolutely people's prejudice."
Charles Barkley suddenly interjected when he heard this,
"Don't tell me you plan to go into politics in the future? That's truly astonishing news!"
Noticing that all three were looking at him, Kevin Johnson smiled and retorted,
"Why be surprised? It's just a life choice."
"…"
On the night before Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals, Allen Iverson found himself ignored again.
The pre-game interviews were lukewarm, and the Philadelphia media seemed ready to surrender.
Everyone started discussing the second battle between the Lakers and the Knicks.
Dikembe Mutombo took on the role of a veteran in the locker room, trying to boost morale, looking into each teammate's eyes, and loudly encouraging them:
"We can create a miracle! We need to win a game for our fans who support us!"
Head Coach Larry Brown didn't say much after entering the locker room.
In previous games, he would always remind them of details and make more demands on the players.
But for the past two days, it was mostly the assistant coaches leading the training.
Larry Brown offered encouragement verbally, but in his heart, he had already accepted defeat.
At 8:00 PM sharp, at the First Union Center, after the game began, the Philadelphia fans who had held onto hope before the game were disappointed again.
Everyone only saw Allen Iverson being frequently targeted, facing a lot of physical confrontation on offense, and being relentlessly pursued on Defense for several consecutive possessions.
The scene was too brutal, causing some fans to feel uncomfortable, and for a moment, even the boos disappeared.
After shooting 2-for-10 in a single quarter and contributing 4 points, Allen Iverson walked dejectedly towards the bench.
33:21.
Looking at the 12-point deficit, the First Union Center also fell silent.
During the rotation phase, Eric Snow only played 3 minutes before he couldn't continue due to a right foot injury.
Aaron McKie, who had been highly anticipated, also got lost in Ron Artest's savage Defense.
Just as the commentators predicted, Clay Lee started to exert force in the first half, driving and shooting, breaking down his opponents.
61:41. Game 4 was no different from the first three games.
The Knicks entered the second half with a 20-point lead.
At the NBC commentary desk, Doug Collins seemed to recall the scene of Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals.
He stopped commenting on the game and simply started talking about the upcoming Finals:
"Next will be a clash of super teams. The Knicks have once again shown their dominance in the playoffs."
"11:0. I wonder which team will lose first."
Bob Costas noticed that the Philadelphia fans in the arena had also lost their enthusiasm and stopped discussing the game.
He took over and said:
"Regular season statistics have limited reference value. Although the Knicks swept their opponents, the Lakers' lineup was not complete at the time."
"…"
In the second half, Allen Iverson couldn't find his shooting touch.
After leading the team to a 28:19 third quarter, the game entered garbage time.
Although the 76ers made a strong comeback in the final quarter, time had already run out.
As the final buzzer sounded, 112:88, a 4:0 series sweep!
The Knicks swept the 76ers and advanced to the Finals again!
Clay Lee, who had been sitting on the bench for a while, now stood up and applauded, high-fiving his teammates who came off the court to celebrate.
Jeff Van Gundy was suddenly a bit emotional, leading his team to the Finals for 4 consecutive years, the strongest Champion Coach currently active!
He tried to make his expression serious, but the smile on his face couldn't be hidden.
The Bald Young Coach deliberately straightened his suit before walking towards the scorer's table with his head held high.
Larry Brown didn't give Jeff Van Gundy any chance to show off.
He simply shook hands in greeting, said nothing, and turned to leave.
He truly couldn't stand to see the other party's smug expression.
Allen Iverson sat alone on the bench, holding a towel in his hands, silently shedding tears.
Eric Snow could only pat his boss's back in comfort.
The Philadelphia fans at the arena didn't blame Allen Iverson for his poor shooting, 8-for-26, scoring 20 points.
Everyone could see that he had tried his best.
At the First Union Center, Philadelphia fans began to leave.
They weren't interested in watching the Knicks lift the trophy on their home court.
After this series ended, no commentator would compare Allen Iverson and Clay Lee anymore.
Everything was over.
The gap was clearly visible.
Clay Lee embraced and greeted every 76ers player.
Finally, he comforted Dikembe Mutombo but didn't see Allen Iverson.
"Sorry, Allen was a bit emotional and we pulled him back to the locker room. He doesn't want the fans to see his weak side."
Mutombo explained the reason in a low voice.
Lee didn't mind:
"I understand Allen. Remember to say hello to him for me. I'm looking forward to our next encounter."
"…"
Dikembe Mutombo instinctively opened his mouth, but in the end, he could only force a bitter smile.
Let those words rot in his stomach.
Ron Artest didn't care about the 76ers' feelings.
He put on the orange conference championship hat, took off his jersey, wore a black tank top, and bounced around courtside, celebrating happily.
After Ewing imparted some championship experience to his opponents, he embraced the assistant coaches one by one, put on his hat, and let out another strange shout.
Grant Hill, dressed in his training uniform, adjusted the hat on his head.
His mood was somewhat complex, deeply realizing that choice is greater than effort.
If he had ultimately chosen to join the Orlando Magic during the offseason, he would most likely be fishing by now.
Allan Houston seemed to see through his old teammate's thoughts, put his arm around his shoulder, and joked with a smile,
"Joining the Knicks was definitely the right choice. Sacrificing some stats for a championship, I think it's a great deal!"
With limited playing time, Grant Hill contributed only about 10 points per game in this year's playoffs.
Although he scored little, his tactical position was very high.
In some possessions, the triple screen-and-roll plays were all orchestrated by him.
After years of being stuck in the first round, changing teams and going straight to the Finals, Grant Hill followed the others towards the center of the court and whispered:
"I just feel a bit unreal. This process was much easier than I imagined."
"…"
Due to being on the road, the conference championship award ceremony was a bit simple.
Lee was only in a front position at this time, leaving the opportunity to shine to the playoff "mascot" Ewing.
Most of the Philadelphia fans had already left, but the Gorilla didn't care.
Amidst the Knicks' cheers, he laughed and raised the trophy:
"Oh!!"
Bob Costas acted as the temporary host and immediately offered his congratulations:
"Congratulations to the Knicks, making it to the Finals for 4 consecutive years!"
Soon, Ewing and Jeff Van Gundy were the first to start their mutual praise mode:
"Unbelievable, thank God, we really did it!"
"This is the last season of my career. To reach the Finals again with the team, I just want to thank Lee, thank my excellent teammates, and thank the coaching staff!"
"…"
Ewing had been showing off all season, getting economic double-doubles as a fake starter.
In his last season, he also left a deep impression on the fans.
As the Gorilla spoke, his eyes welled up with tears.
Jeff Van Gundy seemed to understand Ewing, embraced him, and took the microphone to continue speaking:
"This is a victory belonging to New York! Thank the fans for their support of the Knicks family!"
Lee smiled, touched the trophy, and handed it to Grant Hill next to him.
This trophy didn't hold much appeal for him.
The conference championship wasn't enough.
He needed higher aspirations.
While the Bald Young Coach was reminiscing about past hardships, and while everyone was touching the trophy, Lee simply called out his talent panel.
With a thought, he received a notification:
[Allen Iverson's Excellent Steal Awareness]
....
https://discord.gg/mjcCSyu7Yr
By the way, don't forget to throw power stones and leave a review to motivate me :)