Cassell wasn't an extraordinarily skilled player. He was a seasoned veteran with a good mid-range game, a savvy passer adept at orchestrating the offense, and a diligent defender. He was also known for being clutch.
But when he brought the ball upcourt and Su Xi latched onto him, he stalled.
He had no choice but to call for help, getting Nowitzki to set a screen. But Nowitzki's screen was nowhere near solid enough to slow Su Xi down. Su Xi just powered right through it, without any finesse.
Cassell was still being smothered.
He was a cautious player. He hesitated, waiting for his former teammate Ray Allen to get to the right spot, then expertly made the pass... But the instant he exposed the ball, Su Xi pounced like a hungry wolf and ripped it straight from his hands.
Utterly dominant.
Absolutely overpowering.
The fans in the arena were stunned.
