Check out my new fanfic.
12th man to Cricket legend. It's a cricket book for cricket lovers only.
Please give it a go đ
***
On Monday, June 12, 2007, the San Antonio Express-News immediately published an article protesting the violence Bruce Bowen suffered:
"We will not forget Bruce Bowen's contributions to the community. This kind and good husband should not be treated this way."
"He could have given the championship to his newborn son, but now he can only watch the team struggle from the hospital."
"Our opponents fear our adjustments. Head Coach Popovich's tactics make them feel terrified. The San Antonio Spurs can stand tall. They have shown the purest basketball to the fans!"
Four consecutive Finals losses, each more devastating than the last, finally led to a complete breakdown.
As one of San Antonio's main daily newspapers, the paper no longer analyzed the game as it usually did.
The entire sports section was dedicated to emotional outpouring.
Not only the newspaper, but after the game, many local sports reporters also lambasted Game 3 on their blogs, firmly believing that the San Antonio Spurs had a chance to win.
Although the San Antonio Spurs, like in the first two games, didn't win a single quarter and were comprehensively behind in rebounds, assists, steals, and field goal percentage, San Antonio Spurs fans firmly believed that if Bruce Bowen hadn't been injured, they would have won!
Regional newspapers naturally serve local fans.
If a San Antonio Spurs die-hard fan were to read the New York Times, they would most likely tear the newspaper to shreds on the spot:
"San Antonio is crying again."
With no suspense left in the series, a photo of Lee making a listening gesture after hitting a super-long three-pointer was used to officially declare the arrival of a five-peat, along with predictions for future championships.
The picture showed large groups of fans clutching their heads in frustration, and some directly covered their faces.
The photo was well-taken, and although the content was all about belittling opponents and boasting, New York fans felt delighted seeing it.
Cloud fans also didn't care about tactics or matchups.
Anyway, Lee was incredibly accurate from beyond the arc in the second half, so all they had to do was follow along and say "wow."
Witnessing a brilliant individual performance will be a talking point for the next few months.
As for the unlucky Tim Duncan, who cares about the losing side?
Fans who want technical analysis can read the article by Bill Simmons, a well-known columnist for ESPN.
Although his articles always like to show off "writing style" and "cold jokes," they contain more substantive content.
The column was updated late at night, and Bill Simmons directly gave a conclusion in his article:
"As long as Clay Lee is still in the NBA, the era of big men will not come for the next five years."
The above conclusion referenced Michael Jordan's career situation.
The secondary GOAT's statistical performance at 34 years old reached a career-low.
Considering Lee's age, five years is the most reasonable prediction.
No one mentioned Tim Duncan's "two-way" play anymore.
This big man, who had been highly anticipated since entering the NBA, had inefficient offense and poor Defense in three games.
Perhaps his mentality was problematic.
He couldn't even make free throws during the game, completely wasting the home-court advantage.
The tide of public opinion would not care about the roster differences between the two teams.
Tim Duncan, who made it to the Finals four times, will most likely only receive the fairest evaluation after his retirement.
On tuesday the 13th, TNT, unable to broadcast the Finals, once again delivered a heavy blow in its afternoon program.
San Antonio Spurs legend Sean Elliott appeared on the show, but this did not affect Charles Barkley's performance.
Instead, he used this opportunity to solidify his "star quality theory."
Game 4 would be held in San Antonio at 9 PM that night, but the series no longer held any suspense.
Everyone tacitly agreed that the New York Knicks would win the championship.
"At 31 years old, I respect Tim Duncan, but I don't expect him to maintain excellent form close to 40 like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar."
"Tim Duncan might be the most overrated star. I don't understand why no one criticizes him when he plays poorly. In fact, he has played like garbage in many games over the years."
"Whenever Tim Duncan performs poorly, there's always an excuse: tactics, injuries, teammates. I've heard enough!"
After the director played a highlight reel of Tim Duncan's missed shots, the camera turned to the studio, and Charles Barkley talked non-stop.
Noticing Sean Elliott's face growing darker, he looked at him and added:
"I think Clay Lee has shown fans Tim Duncan's true strength. In this era of fading stars, he is just an ordinary All-Star. He cannot lead a team to a championship."
"It's like the MVP was given to him by Lee. Tim Duncan has never reached that level of greatness. Considering his age, the San Antonio Spurs' championship window has closed."
Playing 45 minutes, shooting 9-of-21 from the field, 8-of-14 from the free-throw line, for 26 points, 11 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1 turnover, the director once again showed Tim Duncan's stats to the viewers, which indeed looked unremarkable.
As a former teammate, Sean Elliott felt a pang in his heart.
Tim Duncan's reputation plummeted, largely due to Barkley's big mouth.
Even his MVP was stripped, which he couldn't bear to hear:
"Basketball is not an individual sport. Sometimes we have to admit the disparity in rosters."
"I know Tim Duncan. He is a true leader. He is willing to sacrifice to win, and stats are never something he considers. Any other player on the San Antonio Spurs could not do better than him!"
Watching the San Antonio Spurs legend, who seemed a bit emotional, Kenny Smith remained silent, while Charles Barkley, on the other hand, didn't care at all and continued to make sarcastic remarks:
"I have already lowered my expectations for Tim Duncan. Don't say he doesn't care about stats. In basketball, whoever scores more points wins."
"In fact, Tim Duncan was unable to score effectively against the New York Knicks' Defense. If he averaged 30+10 and still lost, I would have long since retracted my opinion. I am simply telling fans a fact: he is overrated."
Ernie Johnson felt that if the conversation continued, today's guest might explode on the spot.
At this point, he could only smile and change the subject:
"Eight three-pointers in a single Finals game. We are not unfamiliar with such a performance, Sean. Why do you think Clay Lee always explodes in crucial games?"
"Those few three-pointers last night seemed incredible to me!"
Playing 40 minutes, shooting 14-of-22 from the field, 8-of-13 from beyond the arc, and 6-of-6 from the free-throw line, for 42 points, 8 rebounds, 14 assists, 2 steals, and 2 turnovers.
Clay Lee, who erupted in the third quarter, completely changed his first-half performance, leading the team to a 36-16 quarter at a critical moment, easily ending the game.
The director once again reviewed Clay Lee's five three-pointers in the third quarter: strong shots off the dribble after a screen, catch-and-shoot after a back cut, and super-long three-pointers from just past half-court.
"It's hard to describe. When Lee makes these incomprehensible shots, it has a huge impact on the defender, sometimes even destroying the confidence of the opposing player."
"You cannot predict his offensive choices. Unlike when he first entered the NBA, Lee's drives are now more threatening. Besides double-teaming, I can't think of a better defensive strategy."
After saying this, Sean Elliott's mood also seemed a bit low, perhaps recalling the 1999 Finals, where he almost won a ring.
Kenny Smith noticed the legend's increasingly low spirits and stopped talking about the topic, instead starting to discuss recent gossip:
"Clay Lee is leading the New York Knicks to challenge historical records. Currently, it seems no one in the NBA can stop them."
"The Phoenix Suns, Lakers, Celtics, and Timberwolves seem to be initiating a four-team trade. Perhaps we will get news after the Finals end."
"Kevin Garnett's departure seems to be counting down."
Before the game that night, Head Coach Popovich, who had lost three straight games, appeared before the media looking haggard.
The old man still seemed unable to let go, and after answering a few questions, he said with red eyes:
"Bruce Bowen is a good person. He and Yardley Babon just welcomed their second child, and now he can only lie in the hospital."
"Seeing a tough man cry on the bed made me very sad. We cannot accept such a result."
124:95. The San Antonio Spurs, back at home, suffered a crushing defeat in Game 3.
Tonight, they will once again face their most familiar battle for honor!
Most sports reporters were no longer interested in the game's outcome.
They only wanted to interview Tim Duncan.
Unfortunately, the core player seemed to have a breakdown and refused individual interviews after attending the press conference.
The media naturally didn't buy the San Antonio Spurs' explanation that Duncan had an injury.
Anyway, the San Antonio Spurs' championship window was closing, so there was no pressure to kick them while they were down.
Game 3 was not a good game.
The San Antonio Spurs had too many free throws, and their offense didn't show any beautiful plays.
An ESPN reporter seized upon this issue:
"We noticed that the San Antonio Spurs' free throw attempts increased significantly after returning home. Is the reduction in outside shooting the reason for the team's loss?"
Due to Bruce Bowen's departure, the San Antonio Spurs shot 5-for-13 from beyond the arc in Game 3, with Manu Ginobili alone going 4-for-6, Brent Barry 0-for-4, and Robert Horry 1-for-3.
Hearing the sarcastic question, Gregg Popovich certainly wouldn't admit to the coaching staff's arrangements.
He just spoke platitudes with a mix of grief and indignation:
"I am proud of my players! They didn't give up until the very last moment of the game."
"âŠ"
Some reporters secretly curled their lips upon hearing these boring remarks.
Everyone knew the tactic of having Bruce Bowen guard the opponent's core player, and Gregg Popovich would also have to take the blame for the loss.
Since the NBA had already started preparing for the awards ceremony a day in advance, on the day of the game, Lee spent most of the afternoon busy entertaining sports reporters.
Unlike the San Antonio Spurs players who were ignored, the New York Knicks were surrounded by a host of media.
The AT&T Center was no stranger to Lee.
He had lifted a trophy there when the new arena was just built.
Renowned sports reporter Jim Gray received a warm welcome from Lee, and even when he asked about the conflict in the previous game, it didn't affect the locker room atmosphere:
"Bruce Bowen is an excellent defender, and none of us wanted to see such a thing happen."
"Seeing this veteran leave the court, I, like the fans, feel very regretful!"
"However, I have also prepared gifts for my old rivals. These champagnes symbolize our friendship, and after my career ends, I will definitely miss these years of competition."
Lee put his arm around Jim Gray, smiling as he recalled the past.
No reporter refuted his words.
Instead, they all started flattering him.
Every reporter present received a small gift: a green-bottled, golf-limited edition armand de brignac.
Not only reporters, but Lee also prepared champagne for his old rivals.
Sharing championship champagne might bring good luck.
Lee believed Tim Duncan and the others would like this special gift.
"Clay, after winning the championship, will you accept Coach Krzyzewski's invitation?"
The Fox Sports reporter was asking about this year's selection.
For the Olympics 12-man roster, an open tryout would be held in July, which would also be broadcast live across the United States.
"I need to return to my family. A long time ago, I recommended Jason Kidd. If you want to bring a Rookie, Kevin Durant is the best choice."
Hearing Lee's answer, everyone knew that the idea of an open tryout was not good.
Coach Krzyzewski obviously wanted to curb the tempers of the big-name players.
"Before the draft, it seems a major trade will happen. Which team in the Western Conference will become the New York Knicks' next opponent?"
The TNT reporter automatically excluded the San Antonio Spurs.
Their weak roster depth and the annual "filling the salary cap" operations had made basketball commentators completely lose confidence in this team.
"What about Kobe Bryant?"
Before Lee could answer, a young Yahoo Sports reporter from behind suddenly shouted.
For a moment, no one spoke, and then low laughter came from the locker room.
JR Smith, who was watching the show, shook his head and imitated him after laughing.
After shouting a few times, he mocked the big star who frequently caused heated discussions during the Finals:
"Where's Kobe? He's fishing! Who in the NBA cares about him? There's no second Shaq now, the best big men are all in New York!"
Suddenly, everyone on the New York Knicks team was grinning, and even Pau Gasol, who usually didn't participate in gossip, showed a smile.
The atmosphere team, led by JR Smith, created an even more joyful mood.
"I'm more concerned about the team's own condition. As long as we can stay healthy, the New York Knicks will keep winning!"
"It's a pity that Grant chose to take his talent to ESPN. The championship needs him."
Lee didn't directly answer the question, but sports reporters understood that the previous news was true: Grant Hill chose to end his contract and retire directly.
After the media reporters left, Mike D'Antoni and the coaching staff, dressed in formal attire, returned to the locker room.
Hill, who attended the pre-game press conference, took a deep breath.
For the last game, he gathered everyone in a circle.
Without too much emotion, Hill's face showed a relieved smile.
Perhaps he wasn't a qualified leader, but his career was undoubtedly successful:
"Family!"
After a unified shout, everyone followed Lee, jogging towards the player tunnel.
At the very back of the line, Rajon Rondo felt both excited and confused.
By the Finals, Mike D'Antoni had become very conservative, and the Rookie could only play garbage time, with only about 2 minutes per connecting segment in each game.
Without any highlight performances, Rajon Rondo easily won a championship in his first professional season.
It wasn't until he heard waves of boos that the Rookie fully came to his senses.
"Champion!"
David Lee, with his curly hair, didn't have as many emotions as the Rookie.
He was jumping and shouting happily with Raja Bell and others, waiting for tonight's game.
At 9 PM sharp, the AT&T Center was not full even after the game started.
The disappointed San Antonio Spurs fans seemed uninterested in seeing their old rivals lift the trophy on their home court again.
After losing Game 3, Tim Duncan seemed to have become withdrawn, barely speaking for over a day.
As the game progressed, he also showed no desire to attack.
Tonight was Grant Hill's last game of his career.
The New York Knicks players frequently set up plays for the veteran, and Lee even took the lead in feeding him the ball.
Tayshaun Prince, who appeared in the starting lineup, also didn't try to show off too much, constantly hounding Manu Ginobili on Defense.
Coupled with Parker being stifled by Lee, the New York Knicks quickly launched transition offenses, and continuous fast breaks brought waves of boos to the AT&T Center.
Gregg Popovich, who called an early timeout, failed to ignite Tim Duncan's fighting spirit.
With several missed jump shots from the left block, the San Antonio Spurs gradually collapsed.
In the final moments of the first quarter, as Lee continuously grabbed long rebounds, Hill, who was fierce on fast breaks, easily scored again.
The AT&T Center had practically become a library.
35:15. At the end of the first quarter, on the New York Knicks bench, the atmosphere team celebrated wildly.
The championship was only a matter of time.
0-for-3 shooting, 0-for-2 from the free throw line, scoring a goose egg.
Tim Duncan covered his face with both hands when he returned to the bench.
No one spoke.
Everyone on the San Antonio Spurs realized their leader had collapsed.
Gregg Popovich couldn't offer any pep talk.
The old man looked at his beloved player's pained expression, and his eyes reddened for a moment:
"It's all my responsibilityâŠ"
....
By the way, don't forget to throw power stones and leave a review to motivate me :)