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 December 22, 2002, at Madison Square Garden, New York fans were still celebrating the team's record-breaking achievement after the game.
Buying tickets to watch the game and witness the birth of a record was definitely worth it recently.
78:106. The Heat had been losing continuously to the Knicks recently, and Coach Pat Riley was frequently mocked by the New York Media.
With the team lacking its true core, Mourning, the Champion Coach was also faltering.
With an 8-20 record, the Heat officially began their journey to the top draft pick.
At the MSG commentary booth, the two commentators were still warming up for the upcoming Christmas War.
Legendary Walt Frazier proudly said:
"This is the sixth consecutive season the Knicks have participated in the Christmas War, and it's also the 47th Christmas War in the Knicks' team history."
"As the team with the most Christmas War appearances in the league, I'm proud of our guys!"
Marv Albert was still singing praises for the new record:
"A 24-game winning streak to start the new season, an unparalleled achievement!"
"The record is still ongoing, Clay Lee is simply too outstanding. I think this season we will win back the o'brien cup!"
The two of them were hyping things up at the commentary booth, and after the game, the sports media surrounded Lee.
With a 24-game winning streak, the defending champions, the Lakers, were completely overshadowed by the Knicks.
Sports media naturally pursued the record, as no one wanted to miss such a hot topic.
In addition to congratulations, sports reporters didn't forget to warm up for the upcoming Christmas War.
ABC rarely broadcasted regular season games, but the Knicks' Christmas War was planned.
Everyone hoped this nationwide broadcast would attract more attention.
Reporters from ESPN and TNT asked questions one after another.
When asked if the record could continue, Lee didn't boast.
Instead, he shrugged his shoulders and joked about a game a few days ago:
"If the Milwaukee Bucks hadn't been in poor form, we might have stopped at 22 consecutive wins."
"Basketball is round, anything is possible. The record does have some luck, but I will go all out in the Christmas War. Victory is a gift for the fans!"
In last week's game against the Milwaukee Bucks, the Knicks players were like blacksmiths, and Lee also clanked the iron.
Everyone was ready to lose, but Ray Allen stepped up!
After four quarters of tough play, Ray Allen shot 3-for-17 from the field, scoring 10 points, leading the Knicks to continue their winning streak.
88:82. Lee felt like they had somehow reversed the game and then inexplicably won.
The two teams nearly bent the Milwaukee Bucks' home court rim.
After this game, Head Coach George Karl suddenly broke down and publicly criticized Ray Allen after the game:
"The Milwaukee Bucks can't win when their core player is shooting poorly and doesn't want to contribute on Defense!"
"This is the ugliest loss I've ever seen. I didn't see any desire to win from the players. We are a bunch of softies!"
His performance was truly disappointing.
Ray Allen didn't say anything after the game, but Lee spoke up for his good brother:
"Ray should stick to being himself. He'll never be the next anyone because he's already excellent!"
"Every player has off-shooting nights. My performance wasn't good tonight either, but basketball is a five-man game. I'm glad to see our bench step up."
Just because Lee said a few comforting words, Head Coach George Karl has been on a rampage recently, not only attacking Ray Allen but also constantly mocking Clay Lee.
The two sides have been having a great time tearing into each other, and only the casual fans are enjoying the show.
The TNT reporter naturally knew that Lee and George Karl were at odds recently, but this topic was already getting old.
At this point, he proactively asked about the MVP:
"Lee, leading the team to a 24-game winning streak, do you think you can continue to win the MVP this season?"
Regardless of the rankings, Lee has always held the top spot in the MVP standings.
"I don't know. The regular season has just begun. Our schedule for the first two months was good, but that also means the subsequent schedule will be very dense."
"I don't care much about this award because I want to win back the championship even more. For this, the Knicks are already prepared!"
Lee didn't have high hopes for the media vote and answered very casually.
After the sideline interview, several New York sports reporters were still discussing in low voices:
"If he gets the Player of the Month award for December again, Lee should be able to win the MVP!"
The ESPN reporter, whose number of accompanying team appearances increased this season, heard their discussion and looked at his colleagues around him, sighing inwardly:
"This is truly a difficult choice."
On the morning of December 23rd, Lee, who had already entered the Christmas holiday, uncharacteristically didn't get up early for his morning run and exercise.
At his home on 82nd Street in Manhattan, the bonfire in the fireplace was still burning.
Lee, woken up by the stuffiness, pulled Scarlett, who was wrapped around him, and only then fully woke up.
Scarlett, who had just turned 18 not long ago and officially become a young woman, no longer needed to bring her little tag-along brother.
Last night, in order to help the young woman improve her acting skills and broaden her range, under a double embrace, the young woman awakened some strange attributes.
On the other side of the big bed, Krysten Ritter also woke up groggily.
Seeing the young woman come over to her side again, she instinctively buried her head in her arms.
Soon, Scarlett let out a soft cry and slowly woke up.
Realizing she was sandwiched in the middle, her face flushed, and before she could speak, she quickly let out another muffled groan.
After getting up at noon and showering, she looked at the marks on her neck, seemingly recalling some of the wild practice from last night.
The young woman, dressed, still had a slight blush on her face.
Lunch was prepared by an invited Russian chef.
Although there weren't many people at home, the food was extremely abundant.
Krysten Ritter, wearing an oversized nightgown, was already seated at the dining table.
Seeing Scarlett dawdling, she greeted her casually:
"Good morning, come and eat! I'm starving!"
Lee, cooperating with the chubby Russian chef, brought the thick soup to the table, kissed the young woman lightly, and then introduced:
"The dishes have been modified a bit and should be more in line with American tastes."
After unlocking a lot of knowledge, Scarlett only fully came to her senses after sitting down.
The little follower leaned in, blinking her big eyes and asking curiously:
"Was Tokyo fun? I haven't been there yet!"
In September, Scarlett went to Japan to film a new movie.
In a transitional period, she hoped to broaden her acting range.
However, thinking about the filming, she finally said unhappily:
"The crew's budget was too small. Not only was the filming rushed, but I didn't even have time to explore there!"
Krysten Ritter, who had just celebrated her birthday two days ago, looked at Lee again and whined affectionately:
"Clay, how about we go to Tokyo this summer?"
Lee was serving them both toasted bread, shook his head at the mention of Tokyo, and then quickly said:
"I have to go to Manchester. This summer, I should have a lot of work to do."
The little follower didn't care, looked at the "box office poison" beside her, and began to tease:
"How's the movie? This is your first movie since becoming an adult!"
At the mention of the movie, Scarlett completely emerged from her embarrassment and said even more dejectedly:
"They say it had a 4 million budget, but I feel it's a bit bad. It seems no one likes this kind of old-fashioned romance, and the box office might have problems again."
Noticing that both of them were looking at him, Lee shrugged his shoulders and said helplessly:
"Giving money to Hollywood is not my pursuit. The movie will definitely be a big hit!"
"Don't forget, everyone loves pretty girls!"
Looking at the winking Lee, Krysten Ritter also chuckled softly and leaned in to Scarlett's ear, teasingly:
"Your figure is getting better and better. Are you staying here tonight?"
Although she wanted to find an excuse, the slightly flushed young woman finally nodded gently.
She liked such an exciting life.
On Christmas Eve, the 24th, Lee attended a dinner hosted by Mayor Bloomberg at his mansion.
Not long ago, he had also attended a Republican Party fundraising dinner in New York City.
The dinner was to raise funds for the 2004 election.
After making their contributions, the Republican Party members present tonight became much more amiable when they saw Lee.
The Christmas dinner was mainly to alleviate New York's public financial pressure.
The billionaire mayor was not having an easy time recently.
Compared to the Republican gathering not long ago, which even the President attended, tonight's event was more for Wall Street figures.
Although Citadel Hedge Fund is headquartered in Chicago, Ken Griffin and Anne Dias were getting along well, and they also came to New York for Christmas.
After greeting the New York celebrities he knew, Lee also joined the couple.
Dias, wearing a red dress, was still very noticeable tonight.
When she saw Lee, she sweetly said while hugging Ken Griffin beside her:
"Clay, we plan to officially get married next year, but we haven't decided where to hold the wedding yet!"
Lee, dressed in a black suit, looked at Ken Griffin, who had a slicked-back hairstyle, feeling a bit surprised.
He had thought the two wouldn't marry but would choose to remain friends.
Friends could cooperate, but once they were truly married, there would be a lot of trouble.
However, seeing how sweet they looked together, Lee still offered his blessings:
"You two will definitely have a lovely little one in the future. Pick a good location and don't forget to inform me. I need to prepare a big gift!"
Anne Dias looked at Lee and then playfully teased him:
"Have you changed your mind? I quite like that football director position."
Noticing that the French blonde beauty was winking at him again, Lee could only change the subject:
"Ken won't agree. He definitely can't bear to leave you!"
"My dear, I wouldn't want to see you working in England!"
Ken Griffin joked, then lowered his head to kiss his beautiful wife, and the three exchanged smiles.
Next February, Red Football Limited will increase its shareholding, officially starting the acquisition, and the time for sharing the spoils is fast approaching.
On December 25th, Christmas, Manhattan seemed to have shaken off last year's terrifying shadow, with significantly more tourists than last year.
In the morning, Lee took Kim and Melinda shopping.
It was a rare holiday for the two of them, and after returning to Manhattan, they couldn't stop browsing.
Since the Christmas War was scheduled to tip off at 6 PM that evening, Lee had to arrive at the Madison Square Garden early in the afternoon to warm up.
Participating in the Christmas War made the New York Knicks players quite excited.
Although it was an away game, Jason Kidd, when interviewed before the game, confidently encouraged his teammates:
"We like to show ourselves on such a stage. The Christmas War, victory is the best gift. Tonight, we fight for the fans."
"The opponent is in good form, but we've also had a winning streak recently!"
The Nets' current record is 19 wins and 9 losses, and Jason Kidd wasn't boasting.
Their current competitive state is indeed excellent.
This season, Rookie Richard Jefferson has secured a starting position. When interviewed before the game, he couldn't stop smiling.
Besides praising the team, he didn't forget to praise his boss:
"Everyone underestimates Jason Kidd. I know the impact he brings to the team."
"In just one season, the Nets have climbed to second in the Eastern Conference. Clay Lee is excellent, but Jason Kidd should also receive more attention!"
Sports media also didn't forget Pau Gasol, who was also a second-year Rookie.
Compared to Richard Jefferson, Pau Gasol's stats were even better.
When interviewed before the game, Pau Gasol was very humble.
Hearing everyone's praise, he just happily stated:
"I'm a technical big man, but after more than a season of tempering, I feel I'm more adapted to the league."
"This season, Ewing has been a great help to the Rookies on the team. He's a legendary center, and we are all very happy to receive his guidance."
...
During the game that evening, many Christmas elements also appeared at Madison Square Garden.
New York fans who arrived early actively participated in small activities organized by sponsors, and the atmosphere was particularly joyful.
Like the major shopping malls in Manhattan, the Madison Square Garden was also playing Mariah Carey's "All I want for Christmas is You."
This popular single from '94 always sees a surge in sales around Christmas.
ABC attached great importance to this Christmas War.
The live commentators were Bradley Nessler, partnered with Bill Walton.
Chief sideline reporter Michelle Tafoya also came to the stadium.
However, the trio's combination didn't seem to be very popular with the fans.
After the game began, although Bradley Nessler actively commentated, his partner Bill Walton often couldn't keep up with the conversation.
There were some small problems with their partnership, but it didn't affect the quality of the game.
In the final moments of the first half, Jason Kidd used Kenyon Martin's screen at the right elbow of the free-throw line, again driving straight into the paint to draw a foul on Pau Gasol.
Head Coach Scott on the sidelines kept clapping, a satisfied smile on his face. Jason Kidd was extremely active on offense in the first half.
After making both free throws, the Nets once again tied the score, and the New York fans present didn't boo, continuing to cheer joyfully.
54:54, the two teams were tied at halftime.
In the first half, Jason Kidd was 5-of-8 from the field, 6-of-6 from the free-throw line, scoring 16 points, 3 rebounds, 7 assists, and 3 turnovers.
Consistently hitting wide-open long twos, Jason Kidd performed exceptionally well on offense tonight.
On the other hand, Rookie Richard Jefferson scored zero points in the first half, as Ron Artest's Defense at home was twice as effective.
The game was exciting, and New York fans, occasionally wanting a change of pace, enjoyed it.
As for the outcome, veteran fans knew that the team would exert more effort in the third quarter.
At the commentary table, Bill Walton glanced at the technical statistics and then simply commented:
"It seems the Knicks haven't fully tensed up yet. Lee was a bit slow to start in the first half, but I believe he'll find his rhythm very soon."
Nessler praised Head Coach Scott's Defense strategy:
"Facing the Nets' pick-and-roll offense, the New York Knicks' big men performed well in the first half. I believe they will continue this Defense strategy in the second half."
In the first half, Clay Lee was 6-of-10 from the field, 1-of-4 from beyond the arc, and 4-of-4 from the free-throw line, getting 17 points, 2 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 steals, and 2 turnovers.
Although these stats were very good, everyone was used to his previous efficient performances, so seeing Lee's poor three-point shooting, they subconsciously felt it was mediocre.
Unlike the home commentators, the two at the commentary table seemed to overly emphasize their neutral stance, and their comments were also very conventional.
After the second half began, Coach D'Antoni was still the same, smiling, sitting in his seat.
"Defense!"
The shouts of Defense echoed throughout the Madison Square Garden.
The Nets, who had the first possession, quickly realized that the Knicks had continued their game strategy from the first half.
Lee, leading the Defense, still kept his distance from Jason Kidd, and the rest of the Knicks players were still positioned around the paint.
Throughout the entire first half, the Nets only attempted one three-pointer, responding with wide-open long twos, which then led to a back-and-forth game.
Seeing this defensive alignment, Jason Kidd knew that the opponent simply didn't believe they could continue to make those shots.
At the top of the arc, Jason Kidd directed traffic.
When Lucious Harris received the ball on the right wing, his defender, Grant Hill, also played sag-off Defense.
After a moment of hesitation, Harris chose to pass the ball back.
Then Jason Kidd passed the ball to Richard Jefferson on the left wing.
With continuous passes around the perimeter, the Knicks' defensive formation remained the same.
Only when the opponent received the ball would their defender step forward.
After a few quick passes, Jason Kidd finally called for Kenyon Martin, and while Richard Jefferson ran to the left corner, he immediately set a pick-and-roll on the left wing.
Kurt Thomas guarded from behind.
Kenyon Martin faked the screen and then accelerated on his roll.
Lee easily squeezed through the screen, continuing to chase from his side.
Jason Kidd, holding the ball with his left hand, leaned into Lee while observing the situation on the court.
Noticing that everyone on the Knicks was collapsing, he smoothly dished the ball to Richard Jefferson in the left corner.
Despite being an open shot, Richard Jefferson hesitated a bit after receiving the ball.
The opportunity flashed by, and Ron Artest again closed out tightly.
With most of the shot clock gone, in desperation, Richard Jefferson put the ball down with his right hand, attempting to drive baseline.
Ron Artest slid quickly.
Their bodies collided, and Richard Jefferson almost had to stop the ball.
Sensing that the paint was crowded, he instinctively passed the ball to Jason Kidd beyond the three-point line before reaching the restricted area.
It was almost a bailout pass, of extremely poor quality.
Predicting the opponent's passing lane, Lee got in front of Jason Kidd and poked the ball away.
Jason Kidd immediately twisted his body, trying to steal the ball back.
The two collided on the left wing, but ultimately Lee sealed his position and poked the ball again.
Slowed down by the collision, Jason Kidd tried to chase back, but Lee had already scooped up the ball with his right hand, taking long strides, and quickly dashed across half-court!
"Wow!"
Amidst the cheers of the New York fans present, Lee ran faster and faster, completely shaking off Jason Kidd behind him.
He soared into the paint and executed a stylish reverse two-handed dunk!
At the commentary table, unable to speak in tandem, Bill Walton was the first to speak:
"Excellent defensive anticipation! Besides Ron Artest, Lee's Defense is definitely underestimated!"
Jason Kidd, who had chased back to half-court, didn't even look at Lee showboating under the basket.
He went to the baseline and loudly reminded his teammates:
"Attack decisively, we have to make those shots!"
His boss solemnly instructed, and Richard Jefferson, who received the ball, quickly patted his chest to apologize.
When the Nets attacked again, Jason Kidd felt a headache looking at the Knicks' defensive formation.
Learning from past lessons, Jason Kidd decisively called Jason Collins to the right wing.
With the pick-and-roll, Kidd, dribbling with his right hand, momentarily shook off Lee, who was defending him from the baseline.
After a big step dribble beyond the three-point line, Kidd immediately stopped short and decisively jumped for a shot!
"Bang!"
The basketball hit the back rim and, as it bounced up, Pau Gasol grabbed it.
The Nets players quickly retreated in coordination, while Lee, who received the ball, accelerated past half-court.
"Let's go Knicks!"
The cheers from the crowd grew louder.
Kidd constantly directed his teammates to quickly defend their matchups.
Both teams chose the same defensive strategy.
Lee looked at the Nets' positioning and immediately called for a pick-and-roll with Pau Gasol.
Near the left wing, Pau Gasol set the screen.
Lee, dribbling with his left hand, quickly executed a crossover dribble, and as his body feinted to the left-front, he scooped the ball with his right hand for a behind-the-back dribble.
Kidd, still trying to squeeze through the screen, quickly adjusted his center of gravity.
At the same time, the big man, Jason Collins, also stepped up to delay.
Suddenly accelerating his dribble, Lee, with the ball now in his left hand, immediately lowered his center of gravity, quickly pushed the ball to change direction, and, before the opponent's Defense could converge, squeezed directly through the gap.
A huge cheer erupted in the Madison Square Garden.
Kenyon Martin reacted quickly, immediately chasing back to the basket from the right elbow area.
Noticing the opponent's Defense, Lee slowed down while in motion and actively pushed into his opponent.
Kenyon Martin was slightly jarred, then quickly jumped up to block.
Directly in front of the rim, Lee, jumping off his left foot and holding the ball with his left hand, successfully stole a step and leaned forward in the air.
Before the opponent's block, he smoothly tossed the ball towards the backboard!
Kenyon Martin's block immediately hit Clay Lee's left arm.
The referee blew the whistle, and the basketball went high off the backboard and swished through the net.
"Wow!"
Seeing Lee get past the entire Nets' defensive line, Madison Square Garden erupted again.
On the commentary table, Nessler, though a bit slow to react, quickly joined in with loud praise:
"Incredible! K-Mart was actually knocked away, and Clay Lee tore apart the Nets' Defense!"
Against Kidd, the Knicks' big men chose to drop back, while when Lee had the ball, the Nets' big men were forced to step up and delay.
The same defensive strategy, but the final effect was completely different.
Lee calmly made the free throw, and as he retreated on Defense, he didn't forget to instruct his "surface brother":
"You have to keep shooting! Three-pointers might change our Defense."
"As long as you miss your shots, we'll still score!"
Kidd, receiving the inbound pass, simply revealed his hand: breaking the zone Defense was less effective than strengthening the Defense and playing more transition offense.
Both knew the other's intentions, but as the game progressed, Kidd's expression grew increasingly grim.
Lee didn't push for fast-break offense, but rather meticulously ran tactical plays.
The Nets, who had been clanking jump shots, scored a second-chance putback thanks to Kenyon Martin's relentless attack on the rim.
On the next possession, Lee dribbled past half-court.
Kidd noticed there was no big man stepping up behind him and immediately knew this was going to be a low-post offense.
Seeing the tactical signal, after a baseline cross-screen, Pau Gasol moved to the right low post, successfully sealing Kenyon Martin behind him.
Lee delivered the pass immediately.
After Pau Gasol received the ball, Grant Hill at the right baseline corner immediately accelerated and cut along the baseline, while Lee remained on the right wing.
The big man, Jason Collins, followed Kurt Thomas near the free-throw line.
For a moment, the Knicks almost cleared one side, watching Pau Gasol's isolation play.
After putting the ball down with his left hand, Pau Gasol leaned into his opponent and repeatedly faked a drive towards the high post.
After backing into the paint, he immediately spun quickly using his right foot as an axis, gathering the ball and switching to his right hand.
Pau Gasol used his height advantage to score with a hook shot from the lower right side of the rim.
58:65. Seeing the score difference slowly widen, Head Coach Scott on the sidelines still didn't call a timeout.
After several missed shots in the paint, Kidd didn't stubbornly keep attacking the inside.
After dribbling past half-court, he quickly signaled a screen for Harris.
Successfully executing a curl cut, Harris used the big man's screen at the right elbow area of the free-throw line, received a pass from Kidd, and quickly took a jump shot from near the free-throw line.
Grant Hill, who was chasing back on Defense, couldn't defend in time, but Pau Gasol once again jumped with his long arms to contest.
"Bang!"
The basketball hit the rim again and bounced out.
Harris slammed his thigh in frustration.
Kenyon Martin was boxed out early by Kurt Thomas this time and couldn't crash the boards, so he quickly retreated on Defense with his teammates.
Kidd noticed Lee suddenly accelerated his push after receiving the ball and, after being shaken off, immediately shouted a warning to his teammates.
Kenyon Martin, who was still charging hard with his head down, twisted his body as he retreated to the paint and saw Lee burst to the basket with a hop step.
He instinctively reached out to block, and just as Kenyon Martin realized something was wrong, Clay Lee proactively leaned into him.
The two collided, and the basketball was casually tossed towards the rim.
"Squeak!"
The referee blew the whistle.
Head Coach Scott on the sidelines rubbed his forehead in frustration.
Less than half a quarter into the game, Kenyon Martin had picked up his 4th personal foul.
58:67. Watching Lee make both free throws, Kidd began to get anxious.
Without transition offense, the Nets' scoring from the low post was really struggling.
Although Richard Jefferson scored with a tough drive and floater over Ron Artest, on the very next possession, when Lee and Kurt Thomas initiated a pick-and-roll on the left wing again, Kenyon Martin didn't dare to reach out.
Watching Lee's sudden stop-and-go while in motion, accelerating with a hip turn from the left block, and scoring another easy layup, Head Coach Scott reluctantly called a timeout.
58:69. The Nets were completely suppressed.
The excited New York fans immediately cheered loudly:
"MVP! MVP! MVP!"
Kidd was so angry he didn't want to speak, especially when he saw Lee walking towards the bench, raising both hands and high-fiving.
He subconsciously muttered a low curse:
"Damn it!"
Kenyon Martin's defensive habits were not very good.
In the previous possession, he clearly heard Kidd's warning, but still committed a foul.
The Nets players looked at their angry leader and remained silent for a moment.
Being completely dominated on national television, the post-game analysts wouldn't hold back.
At the end of this year, the Nets would still be stuck with the title of the Knicks' second team.
After the timeout, Kenyon Martin remained on the court.
With the opponent having four fouls, Grant Hill didn't need Lee's reminder and started crashing towards the basket.
The constrained Kenyon Martin indeed didn't commit a foul, but several easy scores by the Knicks in a few possessions made Kidd stomp his feet in frustration.
Fortunately, the referee was cooperative. After a pick-and-roll, Kidd drove to the basket with the ball and also drew a foul on Lee, responding with free throws.
Changing their strategy on the defensive possession, Richard Jefferson suddenly left his matchup, Ron Artest, and combined with Kidd to double-team early.
At the top of the arc, Clay Lee easily passed the ball to Ron Artest on the left wing.
The latter received the ball in open space and made the jump shot!
Looking at Ron Artest, who was glaring at him, Richard Jefferson helplessly looked at his boss, and Kidd also fell silent.
In the latter half of the 3rd quarter, Head Coach Scott was forced to bring in Aaron Williams early.
In his very first possession after entering the game, facing Lee and Kurt Thomas's pick-and-roll, Williams desperately tried to steal the ball, while Kidd quickly switched to try and cut off the passing lane.
Before Kidd could switch back and double-team again, Lee, who was horizontally pulling the Defense, suddenly lowered his center of gravity, leaned in, and accelerated.
Williams immediately slid backward to his left.
Lee then used a cross-step to pull back, returning to beyond the three-point line.
Not giving his opponent time to react, he gathered the ball and quickly jumped for a shot!
"Swish!" The three-pointer went through the net without touching the rim.
67:81. With 2 minutes and 33 seconds left in the 3rd quarter, the lead was extended again.
Constantly changing defensive methods, only to end up defending nothing, the Nets players were all a bit frustrated.
Harris, who had been bricking shots for a quarter, finally made a long two-pointer from the right wing, but this response shot came too late.
The big man, Collins, had been worn out for a quarter.
He couldn't close out in time on the pick-and-roll Defense from the right wing and watched as Lee, after a behind-the-back dribble, suddenly stopped short and took a long-range three-point jump shot!
"Swish!" The three-pointer went in steadily.
In the final few possessions, Kidd of the Nets continued to make free throws, and Williams scored on a putback;
The Knicks continued with pick-and-rolls, with Kurt Thomas and Pau Gasol getting easy scores in the paint, and the lead never seemed to shrink.
72:88. With such a score difference, the atmosphere in theMadison Square Garden became even more joyful.
With a large lead, Mike D'Antoni didn't stick with his starters.
At the beginning of the 4th quarter, the rotation lineup came back on court.
Perhaps due to a mental collapse, the Nets' offense showed no improvement for over three minutes.
They neither rushed three-pointers nor strengthened their Defense.
It wasn't until Kidd re-entered the game and proactively sped up the offensive pace that the game completely fell apart.
In the latter half of the 4th quarter, the Knicks that New York fans were familiar with returned.
Both sides played an exciting game, with occasional alley-oops.
Kenyon Martin also displayed his beastly physique, and Amar'e Stoudemire completed a dunk over a defender in his first Christmas War.
With 2 minutes and 01 seconds left in the game, Head Coach Scott proactively called a timeout and put in the players from the end of the bench, letting the atmosphere group make an appearance.
On the Knicks' side, Matt Barnes also got a little bit of playing time.
Ultimately, the Knicks defeated the second team 96-116, securing their 25th consecutive victory!
Playing 38 minutes, Clay Lee shot 13 of 21 from the field, 4 of 10 from three-point range, and 10 of 10 from the free-throw line, tallying 40 points, 5 rebounds, 11 assists, 4 steals, and 2 turnovers.
Clay Lee blandly scored 40 points and a double-double.
Bill Walton, from the commentary booth, looked at the stat sheet and sighed:
"He scored 40 points, and I even feel like Clay Lee didn't perform that well."
"This illusion isn't the first time it's appeared. Perhaps we've all grown accustomed to being strict with him."
Nessler, who seemed a bit disconnected throughout the game, glanced at his partner, unsure how to praise him, and finally offered a dry compliment:
"I'll vote for Lee—All-Star votes, MVP votes, all for him!"
"He completely shredded the opponent's Defense in the third quarter and fully controlled the game's tempo. This season, Lee is the best player!"
The joyful atmosphere at Madison Square Garden made Kidd even more dejected.
There were no Nets fans in the stadium, not even a single fan wearing his jersey.
The Christmas War was a gift to the fans.
After the game, players from both teams simply shook hands and then thanked the fans.
Aside from the slightly higher defensive intensity in the third quarter, most of the time, tonight was an offensive showdown, and the game was quite enjoyable.
Fans who bought expensive tickets felt it was worth it!
Kidd simply greeted them and left dejectedly.
Lee knew his 'surface brother' was in a bad mood, so during his post-game interview, he offered a consolation prize:
"This is the Knicks' 47th Christmas War, and I'm very happy to have secured a victory!"
"The Nets are a strong opponent. Kidd is very intelligent. He always manages to drag opponents into his game rhythm."
"We did a lot of work on this before the game. This is a team victory!"
Michelle Tafoya, who became the lead sideline reporter this season, seemed unsatisfied with Lee's polite words and continued to ask:
"25 consecutive wins, Clay, congratulations on breaking the record again. We all know the Knicks will be on a continuous Western road trip. Do you think the team can continue their winning streak?"
The next three road games are against the Houston Rockets, Dallas Mavericks, and San Antonio Spurs, with two of them being back-to-back games.
When Lee heard this question, he no longer held back and instead said seriously:
"Next, we'll fly to Houston. You know, facing Yao Ming, we all have extra motivation!"
"I hope the team can finish December undefeated. The Knicks will get 28 consecutive wins."
"Having lost the championship, I hope New York fans will like this gift!"
On Christmas Day, of the three Christmas War games, the Orlando Magic, playing at home, also secured a victory.
99-104, Tracy McGrady, Steve Francis, and Mike Miller delivered heavy blows, and the Detroit Pistons regrettably lost.
Tracy McGrady contributed 36 points on 14 of 26 shooting, Steve Francis had 22 points, and Mike Miller also scored 15 points.
Kemp was as disappointing as ever, but Orlando Magic fans saw hope: the new Big Three were unstoppable!
105-99, the Los Angeles Lakers, playing at home, ultimately lost to the Sacramento Kings.
The OK Combo both performed poorly, giving Los Angeles Lakers fans a big 'gift' on Christmas.
Playing 46 minutes, Kobe fought with all his might, shooting 7 of 24, scoring 27 points, 15 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 steals, 1 block, and 6 turnovers;
Shaquille O'Neal played 41 minutes, shooting 8 of 19, and 11 of 16 from the free-throw line, tallying 27 points, 17 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 blocks, and 2 turnovers.
With both of them performing poorly, Phil Jackson could only continue to be the peacemaker after the game:
"We just couldn't make our shots. Tonight, we grabbed 61 rebounds!"
"22 offensive rebounds. We lost only because our touch was off and we couldn't capitalize on our opportunities."
Defeated by the Sacramento Kings in a nationally televised game, sports media naturally fueled the fire.
When asked about internal team conflicts, Phil Jackson immediately chuckled, "I've said it before, there are only basketball disagreements within the Lakers. Shaq and Kobe have a very good relationship!"
"Believe me, the Lakers will ultimately complete their championship Defense!"
With an 11-19 record, sports media wasn't sure if they could defend their title, but everyone heard the scattered boos in Staples Center.
Forget about the championship.
Two months into the season, Kobe and Shaquille O'Neal had already fallen out of the MVP race.
The Knicks had to endure three consecutive Western road games.
There was no time to enjoy the Christmas holiday.
Everyone had to pack their bags and prepare to fly to Houston.
After boarding the plane, Ron Artest scurried around, shouting excitedly:
"When we meet Yao Ming, we need to let Lee get more stats. I heard many Asian fans, particularly chinese are watching this game."
Stephen Jackson threw his jacket aside, dressed in a black sweater and black casual pants, all in black, and leaned close to Lee:
"How about 60 points, Lee? That's not difficult for you!"
Grant Hill, who was sitting next to Lee reading a magazine, also turned his head and said with a smile, "If your shooting touch is good, you won't need 30 shots to get 60+. I think that's a good idea."
"Fans should like it!"
Pau Gasol, hearing their discussion from behind, couldn't help but nod, handing Lee a newspaper and introducing:
"ESPN is broadcasting it. Everyone is really looking forward to this game."
New York Media didn't specifically report on Yao Ming.
They were busy hyping up Amar'e Stoudemire!
This Rookie was still adapting to the game, sometimes not getting much playing time, and losing the Rookie of the Month award for two consecutive months, which made New York Media anxious.
Lee hadn't spoken yet.
As the 'atmosphere team' joined in, everyone gathered in a circle, talking non-stop.
Hearing Amar'e Stoudemire also start loudly proclaiming he would blow out Yao Ming, Lee couldn't help but rub his chin:
"If I really blow out this guy, perhaps 'Lee haters' will appear in China earlier?"
"It's doesn't matter anyway."
The Houston Rockets, currently preparing in Houston, have recently seen their popularity skyrocket!
As Yao Ming gradually adapted to the league's rhythm and his scoring increased, Houston Rockets owner Alexander couldn't stop smiling.
Although not comparable to big markets like New York or Los Angeles, Alexander knew he had picked a cash cow!
Every game, there were chinese fans in attendance, enthusiastically holding up whiteboards to cheer for Yao Ming.
After the game, the swarming sports media not only benefited Yao Ming, but the entire Houston Rockets gained massive exposure.
The team owner was overjoyed, but Yao Ming, who was recently preparing for games, felt immense pressure.
While in China, Yao Ming had sporadically watched some games and hadn't personally experienced Lee's influence.
But after coming to the United States, with mainstream sports media circling around Clay Lee, Yao Ming realized what a true superstar was.
After the afternoon training session on the 26th, Yao Ming finished dealing with sports media interviews, and his translator, Colin Pine, excitedly said:
"Finally, we get to play against the Knicks!"
"Yao Ming, can you help me get Lee's autograph? Ever since Upper Deck released Lee's player cards, it's become harder and harder to get his autograph!"
"Cheer up, don't worry about the game's outcome. That's Clay Lee! The superstar who defeated Michael Jordan and won 4 consecutive championships!"
Seeing Yao Ming still looking troubled, Colin Pine paced back and forth, finally whispering, "You're not thinking of beating the Knicks, are you?"
"Don't ever expect Steve Francis to limit Lee. The gap between them is too big!"
Yao Ming looked at his friend, who had turned into a chatterbox, and finally said helplessly, "I'm just worried about my own poor performance. There are high expectations for me in China, and there isn't much news about Lee, so fans might not understand him very well yet."
Colin Pine still didn't quite understand Yao Ming's meaning.
In his opinion, it was perfectly normal for the Houston Rockets to lose to a championship team.
Watching his friend still seem a bit confused, Yao Ming sat down on a chair by the court, sighing inwardly:
"If we lose by a large margin, there will be boring questions after the game again."
.....
By the way, don't forget to throw power stones and leave a review to motivate me :)