Since coming to this world, with his packed schedule and various commitments, Blake Su rarely had time to sit alone at home, leaning back on the couch to watch a live game.
Tonight was one of those rare occasions where he watched an entire game by himself.
Yet even though the Nuggets vs. Lakers matchup was a clash between top teams, and both Anthony and Kobe were on fire, the exciting back-and-forth still left Blake Su feeling like something was missing.
"Why is that?"
During halftime, Blake Su kept thinking about it. It was not until the second half began that he finally started to understand.
"It's because I'm watching alone, so it doesn't feel as engaging."
But that only led to another question.
"I have watched games alone before. Why didn't I feel like this back then, where a great game still feels dull?"
"Ah."
Blake Su lightly tapped the back of his head and suddenly smiled.
"I get it. It's the bullet comments. Without them, it feels boring."
Bullet comments.
That was right. Real-time bullet comment interaction made watching games far more engaging than a plain broadcast.
Why?
First, bullet comments create a sense of community. With their immediacy, precision, and high level of participation, even if you are watching alone, it feels like many people are watching with you.
It might not match the atmosphere of being in the arena, but it is still far better than watching in silence.
Second, they allow people to express emotions and feel involved. When you see a great play, you can shout in excitement and send a comment to share that joy.
Likewise, when you see a bad play or poor defense, you can vent your frustration through comments. When others resonate with you, it brings a sense of satisfaction and deeper immersion in the game.
For Blake Su, even though he rarely sent comments himself, imagine this.
After seeing a dunk full of raw power and beauty, you shout "Nice!" at home.
At that same moment, the screen fills with comments like "Nice," "Amazing," "So cool," and "What a dunk," all matching your thoughts perfectly.
That sense of shared reaction instantly makes you feel recognized, as if countless people are watching alongside you.
The atmosphere of the game rises instantly.
"So it really is the bullet comments. Too bad there aren't any for basketball games at this time. If there were real-time interaction, even watching alone at home would be much more enjoyable.
Since they do not exist yet, could they be brought forward earlier?"
"In my memory, bullet comment culture first appeared on niche video platforms. One platform led early on, but gradually declined, while another rose and pushed bullet comments into the mainstream.
After that, various streaming and media platforms followed suit. Bullet comment culture became more widespread and was adopted by more and more users.
But all of that happens years later. Right now, the internet is not as developed, and the spread of bullet comments is still limited.
Besides, there are barely any platforms offering live NBA broadcasts.
However, as time goes on and the internet develops, the NBA will become a massive market.
If I act early...
Could I make a fortune?"
At that thought, a faint gleam flashed in Blake Su's eyes.
The idea took root.
Aside from basketball, the business side was something he could also tap into, especially since he already knew where many opportunities lay.
Of course, this was not something that could be done overnight. It would take time to gather information and plan everything out.
More importantly, it would require money.
Without enough capital, everything would remain just an idea.
Blake Su watched the game and smiled faintly.
"Looks like I will be busy in the future."
Meanwhile, on the court, the Nuggets and Lakers remained locked in a tight battle through the first three quarters.
The turning point came in the fourth.
Fatigue set in, and the increased defensive intensity caused Anthony's performance to dip. Even so, he continued forcing offense on his own, leading to some missed opportunities.
Kobe Bryant, on the other hand, was determined to vent all his frustration on the Nuggets.
Even in the fourth quarter, even under heavy defensive pressure, he remained full of energy.
His offensive aggression stayed high, and his efficiency never dropped.
In the final quarter alone, he scored 16 points, leading a 14 to 6 run that sealed the game.
In the end, the Lakers defeated the Nuggets on the road.
Anthony finished with 37 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists.
Kobe, unleashing all his frustration, exploded for 50 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists, becoming the unquestioned MVP.
The moment the game ended, Kobe yanked up his jersey, bared his teeth, and roared toward the sky, venting his emotions.
After the game,
Wojnarowski approached Kobe with a smile.
"Kobe, you scored 50 tonight and played incredibly well. But you seem especially fired up. Is it because you won Player of the Week?"
"No."
After taking a moment to calm down, Kobe stood with his hands on his hips and shook his head.
"Winning Player of the Week is a good thing. It is recognition of my ability.
But last week's award was not what I wanted. Even though I have not beaten Blake Su before, winning it that way felt meaningless.
I would rather earn it through a real head-to-head comparison."
"I see."
Wojnarowski nodded with a smile.
"I hope you can keep playing like this every game this week. Good luck, Kobe."
...
The following night.
The Suns hosted the Kings at home.
This time, the entire Suns roster would play. If they kept resting players, it would be hard to justify.
Blake Su also set aside his business thoughts for now and refocused on the game.
During pregame warm-ups.
In the broadcast studio, Mike Breen sat upright and joked,
"Jeff, tonight the Suns are facing the Kings, the very team that just ended their 23-game winning streak.
And with the Suns at full strength this time, do you think the Kings might win again and hand the Suns a fourth straight loss?"
Van Gundy paused for a moment, then smiled.
"That is definitely possible."