NBA: Miracle Workers

On Thursday, April 16, 2015, several mainstream media outlets, including ESPN and TNT, announced the first round schedule for the NBA playoffs:

The matchups for the eight teams in the Eastern Conference are as follows:
The Knicks with 60 wins vs. the Nets with 39 wins; the Hawks with 58 wins vs. the Celtics with 40 wins.
The 50-win Bulls vs. the 41-win Bucks, and the 48-win Raptors vs. the 46-win Wizards.

The matchups for the eight teams in the Western Conference are as follows:
The Warriors, with 67 wins, will face the Mavericks, who have 47 wins; the Lakers, with 61 wins, will face the Rockets, who have 49 wins.
The Clippers (58 wins) vs. the Spurs (50 wins), and the Trail Blazers (52 wins) vs. the Grizzlies (51 wins).

Despite their strong start to the season, the Hawks ultimately failed to reach 60 wins. On the other hand, the Knicks, just like last season, rallied in February and easily overtook their opponents to take the top spot in the Eastern Conference.

Unlike the increasingly competitive Western Conference, most commentators were convinced that the Knicks would once again make it to the NBA Finals even before the series began!
After reviewing the matchups, the difference in championship experience was obvious. Some teams were even playoff rookies, and no one believed that the young players could defeat the Knicks, who had completed their generational transition.

For fans across the ocean, the Lakers vs. Rockets matchup was like the NBA's Spring Festival Gala. With Yao Ming confirming this was his last season, sports media naturally gave it comprehensive coverage.

On Friday the 17th, the CCTV broadcast team arrived in Los Angeles. Yang Jian, who was partnering with Zhang Weiping again, was exhausted. During this period, the old man had been providing high-intensity support to Kobe and Westbrook.

Before the game even started, the old man had already found scapegoats for both sides. If the Rockets upset the other team, it would definitely be Yao Ming's fault, and all the other players would be dragging the team down!

Taiwan's Future Sports has reached a rare consensus with CCTV Sports: Westbrook has clearly influenced Jeremy Lin, whose stats have declined this season, all thanks to "The Turtle".
After the Rockets finished warming up in the afternoon, CCTV Sports interviewed Yao Ming at the hotel. He said that his foot injury had reached its limit and he would most likely be unable to participate in the 16 Olympics.

Although he didn't achieve great results with the Rockets over the years, after seeing so many superstars end tragically, people felt that Yao Ming's dignified departure was actually quite good.

The camera recorded Yao Ming's life in Los Angeles over the past two days, and even his pre-training activities were enough to make everyone's scalp tingle.

To maintain his health, Yao Ming not only needs to do a lot of warm-up exercises, but also needs to pay attention to stretching, massage, and diet after training. Compared with younger players, veterans have to put in more effort.

During a brief photoshoot after dinner, Yao Ming, having finished his nutritious meal, jokingly addressed the camera:
"Maybe it won't be long before I don't have to eat these anymore. After that, I want to eat some fried chicken, ice cream, and desserts."

"I want to eat some every day, instead of just once a month. I get excited just thinking about it. I'll eat more braised pork when I get home."

After filming for several days and witnessing the monotonous training life, Yang Jian was somewhat shocked. Although the media always promoted Yao Ming's excellence, he really did not expect that he would have to put in so much effort to maintain his condition.

Rockets staff members also came up to greet Yao Ming, and the equipment manager was still communicating that more preparations were needed for the away game.

Back in his room, before the interview even officially began, Zhang Weiping shook his head repeatedly, looked at everyone, and sighed:
"This is really difficult! You need to be talented and work hard. Just the lack of self-discipline alone has stopped many people. It's time to take a break."

Everyone agreed, saying that although the pay is high, it's not easy to establish oneself in the NBA. Yao Ming smiled and interrupted the topic, not wanting to always emphasize hard work.

Basketball doesn't lie; every superstar lives like this. Some who pursue intensity have to take on more serious challenges. The body isn't a machine, and the NBA is also a "youth-oriented" sport.

During the formal interview, Yao Ming talked about his family and the impact he has had on the United States over the years. He also mentioned the prevalence of "Winning News" in American sports circles and responded with great understanding regarding domestic reporting:
"Those news stories about the UAE are actually quite common in the current media environment in the United States."

"The NBA news in the Philadelphia and Indiana newspapers is all about exaggerated wins, and it's the same in Houston."

"49 wins, I'm not actually satisfied with this record, but after the local media reports, we're like a super team with 59 wins."

Yao Ming looked helpless when talking about the recent media environment, but Yang Jian seemed to understand the underlying meaning and took the initiative to speak:
"This is raising fans' expectations! I've seen this before, on Reddit team sections, there's a barrage of criticism after a loss."

"Domestically, we should pay attention to this; basketball should not be a way to vent emotions."

Yao Ming looked a little strange upon hearing this. What he really meant was that the NBA is increasing its entertainment value, and China could learn from this; there's no need to make a fuss.

Moving away from awkward topics, when discussing their playoff opponent, the Lakers, the conversation naturally turned to Kobe Bryant. Zhang Weiping's use of the term "Black Mamba" had become a habit, and his opening remarks almost caused everyone to burst out laughing:

"Yao Ming might be embarrassed to say it, but the key to victory is to let Kobe play more."

"If LeBron plays intelligently, Kobe has to be allowed to throw up his shots. This is unlike when he was younger; when he got older, he could just jump and shoot, and then he'd be blocked as soon as he came in."

"But the Rockets aren't easy to beat either. Westbrook is like 'Little Kobe,' even when he's having a good time, he just throws things up."

"Basketball games are sometimes a battle of wits and courage, and the Rockets need someone who can provoke the opponent."

Zhang Weiping's "nonsense" almost made everyone burst out laughing. Yao Ming was also somewhat amused and exasperated, as he really couldn't comment, because some of the strategies were indeed similar to what the old man had said.

Coach McHale also hoped to provoke Kobe during the game, causing internal strife among the opponents and giving the Rockets a chance to stage a comeback.

After finishing discussing the awkward topic of the competition, Yang Jian quickly took over the conversation, worried that the old man would add more drama, and proactively changed the subject:
"In the past few days, American media have been reporting on Li You's 'miracle.' After winning the scoring title this season with an average of 31.6 points per game, his career total points have reached 42950."

"I found it incredible when I said that number. Before I retired, I would most likely have scored 45000 points in the regular season."

“In the United States, very few media outlets talk about Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s records anymore, and even Michael Jordan is no longer an object of aspiration for young players.”

"We'd like to hear the opinions of professional players. What does Li You mean to you players in the league?"

Upon hearing this outrageous number again, Yao Ming could only grin and, like everyone else in front of him, exclaim in astonishment:

"Just like you, no matter how many times I hear it, I still find it unbelievable!"

"For players in the league, Li You is a legend, a legendary player in the current league. For us players who have experienced this era, witnessing a legend is both painful and honorable."

"Many media outlets are promoting 'trust the process,' but there can only be one champion in basketball. This applies to the NBA, the Olympics, and the World Cup."

"What's even more cruel is that there are no medals for the runner-up in the NBA. Since 96, many excellent players have had to leave with regrets."

At this point, Yao Ming didn't forget to cite Tim Duncan as an example. The term "uncrowned king" often appears in the "essays" across the ocean, and losers sometimes receive more sympathy.

However, unlike the reports from across the ocean, Yao Ming, influenced by the "winning philosophy," did not affirm Duncan's achievements, but instead frankly stated:
"The second-place finisher in the NBA is the biggest loser, while those of us who haven't experienced the Finals won't be discussed."

"Perhaps that's the only advantage; at least we won't be attacked or insulted."

Without dwelling on the impact of basketball or promoting the popular "spirit theory," Yao Ming sincerely expressed his thoughts in this brief interview.

Seeing the growing sense of dejection on Yao Ming's face, Zhang Weiping stopped criticizing Westbrook and offered a simple blessing with pursed lips:

"Prepare well, everyone will support you for this 'last dance'!"

-

On Saturday, April 18th, ESPN hyped up the Lakers vs. Rockets game early on, with Yao Ming's "Last Dance" surging the attention on this series.

A large number of Chinese fans were also present at Staples Center, with many holding up two whiteboards at the same time to cheer for Yao Ming and Kobe.

Before the game started, Kobe laughed and interacted with his Guangdong teammates. Since returning to the Lakers, the Mamba has finally become the protagonist again, and the media and fans no longer care about James and Howard.
Seeing the immense popularity of Mamba, "Happy Beast" (Dwight Howard) is envious again. With the support of his good partner James, Howard's MVP ranking remains second.

The Warriors firmly held onto first place, which made Howard uneasy; he felt that Curry would likely receive more votes than him.
The thought of leading the team to 60 wins after a season of hard work but still not winning a trophy made Howard unhappy, and he secretly complained that Kobe made the team lose some games they shouldn't have lost.

In contrast, James understands his reputation better. Since he chose to be "nomadic," he had to give up some honors. The chosen one knows that the media will not vote for him.

After slacking off for most of the season, James has fully recovered from his back injury and feels that his body is in its best condition in recent years. He will use the playoffs to demonstrate his dominance and regain the media's approval!

On the ESPN commentary desk, Van Gundy and Mark Jackson were discussing the MVP award:
"Modern basketball places increasingly higher demands on big men, and Stephen Curry's outstanding performance this season may garner him even more votes."

"Lee ushered in a new era. The Knicks' championship masked some things, but as the affected young players enter the league, the tactical system will undergo a major transformation."

Mark Jackson had mixed feelings when talking about Curry, noting that Steve Kerr's 67 wins had significantly damaged his reputation.

Regarding Curry's potential MVP award, Van Gundy has always had a different opinion. It's not that he doesn't approve of young players, but rather that he dislikes the exaggerated claims made by some columnists.

"Curry's emergence is indeed a pleasant surprise, but he can't play like Lee."

"This also means that the Warriors may face difficulties in the playoffs. They lack championship experience, and the Lakers, who have won 61 games, have an advantage in this regard."

Mike Breen brought the conversation back to tonight's game, discussing Yao Ming's final season and remarking with a touch of melancholy:

"The influence of traditional big men is declining, and it may be difficult to see a low-post ruler like Yao in the future."

"This series is also a battle of big men, and Howard needs to be prepared."

At 19:30 p.m., the Staples Center gradually erupted in excitement as the Los Angeles Cavaliers made their playoff debut, drawing great anticipation from local fans.

The Rockets changed their starting lineup tonight, with Russell Westbrook and Jason Terry partnering in the backcourt, and Ariza, Josh Smith, and Yao Ming in the frontcourt. The Lakers, on the other hand, continued with their regular rotation, with Steve Nash still starting at point guard and Boozer continuing at power forward.

Amid cheers, Yao Ming successfully jumped for the ball. Westbrook, who had brought the ball across half-court, showed no mercy to James Harden. As soon as his teammates finished positioning themselves, he immediately pushed the ball at the top of the arc and changed direction.

Westbrook drove past Nash to the free-throw line, took a crossover step back, stopped abruptly, and decisively launched a jump shot.

From the commentary box above the arena, Zhang Weiping knew the young man was going to throw the ball as soon as he started to move. The old man initially complained, but after seeing the basketball swish through the net, he smoothly changed his tune:

"That's how we have to play! Nash can't keep up with his footwork, so we need to show offensive threat to better pass the ball to Yao Ming!"

"."

Yang Jian, standing to the side, twitched slightly. No wonder Kobe and Westbrook fans in China complain about him on social media every day; the old man's commentary style is very "attractive"!
In the Lakers' offensive possession, James ran across half-court early, received the ball on the left wing, made a quick observation, and then immediately passed it back to Nash at the top of the key, and the Lakers began their routine pick-and-roll.

Boozer missed a jump shot from the free-throw line, and although Howard tipped the rebound over him, the ball bounced off the rim and went out.

With Yao Ming securing the rebound, the Rockets quickly launched a transition offense. Westbrook grabbed the ball and charged forward, with Josh Smith following closely on the other side.

A well-timed bounce pass allowed Josh Smith to catch the ball near the paint and attempt a dunk, but James made a crucial block at the last second.

Kobe, who was trying to get back on defense, managed to get possession of the ball, and the Lakers launched a counterattack. Suddenly, a huge cheer erupted in the arena, with many Chinese fans shouting loudly.

Facing Westbrook on the right wing as he returned to defense, Kobe, holding the ball in his right hand, suddenly accelerated, then dribbled behind his back to his left hand, pushing against the defense to the vicinity of the elbow area.

Mamba faked a stop, fooled the young man, spun around, and then, amidst the cheers of the fans, floated and hit a jump shot!

"Oh!!"

Witnessing the Mamba's brilliant offensive, the cheers were unstoppable. Kobe, retreating on defense, clenched his fist in celebration, and a resolute expression appeared on his dark face.

When the Rockets attacked again, Yao Ming's screen near the top of the arc allowed Westbrook to easily get rid of Nash. Facing Howard's help defense, the young man faked a drive and then calmly passed the ball back.

Yao Ming received the ball near the free-throw line and calmly made a jump shot. Seeing this, Zhang Weiping immediately beamed with joy:

"There's no way to defend him! Don't be fooled by Howard's muscles, he's really helpless against Yao Ming. He can take on one opponent in the low post, so Westbrook has to pass the ball like that!"

"."

As the match progressed, Zhang Weiping gradually let loose, and the old man stopped pretending, openly criticizing Mamba throughout the game:
"Don't foul, Kobe might just jump and land anywhere!"

"Wow, it actually went in. Kobe usually has no chance with this shot."

"They're gaining momentum! James' counterattack was really good; the Lakers need to keep letting Kobe play."

"We haven't seen Kobe for half a day, and the Lakers have caught up again!"

The game almost turned into a stand-up comedy routine, and Yang Jian couldn't get a word in edgewise. The old man was unusually engrossed tonight, almost as if he was about to put on a Rockets jersey and pass the ball to Yao Ming.

Kobe played exceptionally well in the first quarter, scoring 6 points efficiently on 3 of 4 shots in a limited number of opportunities. When he was substituted, cheers erupted from all sides.

Both sides entered the rotation period. Yao Ming was still on the court. At this time, James started to organize the offense for the Lakers, and Jack, who came off the bench, was basically a ball-handling guard.

As James drove to the basket and dished the ball to Channing Frye in the left corner, the Lakers suddenly started raining down three-pointers, with James Jones and Jack subsequently hitting three-pointers in succession.

Jeremy Lin lost the ball at the free-throw line, and the Lakers launched a fast break. In the blink of an eye, James shook off the defender behind him and, amidst shouts, delivered a tomahawk dunk!
"That's the difference in experience. James gained championship experience playing against the defending champions in the Eastern Conference playoffs, something the Rockets still lack."

Zhang Weiping sighed with regret, saying that from the perspective of watching the game, the Lakers didn't exert any effort at all, and even seemed to enjoy having Howard compete with Yao Ming in the low post.

After a successful turnaround hook shot, Yao Ming retreated to defend, but the ball was faster than him. During the Lakers' counterattack, James cut in from the right wing and found Howard, who was following up behind, under the basket. Howard put the ball into the basket despite the defense!

"And one!"

Howard, yelling excitedly, signaled a foul and became extra engaged, successfully disrupting Josh Smith's attack on the basket before rejoining the fast break.

After drawing a foul, Howard jumped for joy, and head coach Byron Scott on the sidelines also smiled with satisfaction.

The game seemed intense, but after the first quarter, the score was 25-36, with the Los Angeles Cavaliers demonstrating their dominance.

During the rotation phase, Kobe led the team, and the stretch four of Boozer and Channing Frye caused the Rockets a lot of trouble. Two consecutive three-pointers forced head coach McHale to call a timeout.

As the point difference widened, commentator Zhang Weiping routinely criticized the Rockets' lineup, with Clint Capela's butterfingers leaving the old man speechless.

Yang Jian was quite rational; the Lakers' 61 wins in the regular season were no fluke, and the gap between the two teams was actually very obvious. After speeding up the pace, the Lakers' counterattacks looked more organized.
"This Lakers team reminds me of the Cavaliers of yesteryear, with a more mature LeBron James and Dwight Howard paired with a Kobe Bryant who had reached the pinnacle of his basketball skills. This is a stronger model than the 'Big Three'!"

"Perhaps this Lakers team can return to the Finals in this year's playoffs."

-

On Tuesday, April 28th, back at Staples Center, Chinese sports reporters were somewhat downcast, as Yao Ming's final dance ended in failure.

In the series, apart from winning Game 3 with a three-pointer, the Rockets were completely suppressed by their opponents. Kobe, who was underestimated by many, was incredibly dominant in his 26 minutes of playing time!
Whenever the Lakers' offense stalled, Kobe would use his skillful back-to-the-basket technique to overwhelm the Rockets' backcourt and forwards in the left and right sections of the court.

Coach Byron Scott clearly understood Kobe's physical condition very well. In the fourth quarter, James and Howard took over the game, and Kobe no longer needed to carry the offense as he used to.

With 1 minute and 42 seconds remaining in the game, the Rockets called a timeout, and Yao Ming was substituted off the court, amidst enthusiastic applause from the crowd.

Yao Ming, who was eliminated in the first round again, showed a bitter smile, then let out a sigh of relief. Having persisted until now, his career has surpassed that of 90% of NBA players.

When the game ended, the Lakers players immediately went up to shake hands with Yao Ming.

Cheers erupted again in the Staples Center. In front of the media, Kobe, his dark face breaking into a smile, hugged Yao Ming and shouted:

"There are no losers at this moment! Yao is a legend in Chinese basketball; he earned everyone's respect with his strength!"

"."

Although the "Kobe Recognition Award" is not very prestigious, most Chinese reporters are still very satisfied with Mamba's genuine emotions. Compared to James and Howard, who are considered soft players, Kobe is at least a championship guard!
An ESPN reporter also gathered around Yao Ming. With the series score at 4-1, when asked about his final performance, the Chinese giant jokingly remarked:
"I'm almost 35 years old, and I'm very satisfied with myself for being able to run, shoot, and block shots on the court!"

"You know, I'm not Lee, I can't play like 'Superman' at this age."

"Thank you to our loyal fans, thank you to my young teammates, thank you to Coach McHale and the coaching staff, thank you to the Rockets' management and staff, and also thank you to our opponents tonight."

"Although there are still some regrets, my career has been fulfilling."

Unlike Tim Duncan's dejected exit from the Finals, Yao Ming was greeted by cheers as he walked toward the players' tunnel. At that moment, no one cared about the outcome of the game.

At the post-game press conference, James and Howard also started a mutual praise session, with the two praising Yao Ming to the skies, making him arguably the greatest center in history.

It wasn't until a Yahoo Sports reporter asked about the semifinal matchup between the Los Angeles Cavaliers and the Los Angeles Knicks that James cautiously responded:

“Pau is my good brother. Many of the Clippers players are our former opponents. You know, the Clippers have far more championship experience than the Lakers. We have to be on high alert!”

"The Finals are our ultimate goal; the Lakers still have a long way to go."

The Clippers next door had already secured a match point, and in their away game, JR Smith and Mario Chalmers suddenly rebounded, racking up a series of three-pointers to seal the victory for the Spurs.
Many media professionals are eagerly anticipating the upcoming cross-city showdown, wondering if the Lakers can show championship potential. The Los Angeles Knicks will be the best litmus test.

A Sports Illustrated reporter, as usual, stirred up the topic of the MVP award. Recent rumors have circulated that Stephen Curry edged out Dwight Howard to win his first major trophy. Howard, clearly annoyed, responded irritably:

"I don't think I lost to Curry. He's excellent, but the Lakers aren't at their full potential yet. We're still in the process of gelling together."

"Andre's departure has had a significant impact on the team. You saw his outstanding performance with the Warriors. Without him, we wouldn't have achieved 67 wins."

"If I don't win the trophy, I will personally defeat the MVP in the Western Conference Finals. For me, an Finals MVP trophy might be a better reward!"

"." (End of this chapter)