The regular season was over, and the season's MVP was about to be announced.
The media was buzzing with many names.
O'Neal, for example.
After joining the Mavericks, O'Neal had become their true cornerstone, their one and only core player.
O'Neal, who had started to slack off a bit last season, was forced to step up this season, putting up a stellar average of 27.6 points and 11.4 rebounds per game.
Then there was Hill.
Averaging 22.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.7 assists, he remained the best and most well-rounded small forward in the entire league.
Of course, two-time reigning MVP Duncan couldn't be forgotten either.
Kobe's name was also frequently mentioned. He was putting up incredible numbers and leading the Lakers' resurgence, looking poised to make a run for the scoring title.
And Nash was on the list of contenders as well.
This season, after leaving the Mavericks to become the absolute core of the Pioneer, Nash's stats had evolved across the board.
