NBA: Miracle Workers

On Monday, May 4, 2015, the NBA officially announced the winner of the regular season MVP award.

Stephen Curry, who led the Warriors to a franchise-record 67 wins, won his first MVP award with an overwhelming number of votes!

Of the 130 votes cast, Curry received 100 first-place votes, while Dwight Howard, who came in second, only received 25 first-place votes.
The difference was very obvious; Curry's final total score was 1198 points, while Howard's was 936 points.

The voting results surprised many sports commentators, and according to an unnamed source, the reason Curry received so many votes was largely due to his personal impression of the players.

"Stephen Curry plays like Lee, and the league needs an MVP like him."

This reason is very valid. Curry, who has the "one man, one city" award, certainly outperforms the "nomadic player" in terms of public opinion. What's even more interesting is that some media figures didn't forget to fuel the fire during the voting process.

"LeBron James is the Lakers' best player. He sacrificed his stats for Dwight Howard and Kobe Bryant."

James finished third in the MVP voting, receiving 5 nominations!

Despite missing a period of time this season due to back strain and appearing somewhat lackluster in some games, LeBron James' performance has still been recognized by most basketball commentators.

After the awards were announced, many players sent their congratulations immediately, but Dwight Howard seemed a little petty at that moment, sarcastically complaining on Twitter:

"It's another season where big players don't get any respect. I'm fed up with this selection process."

Nobody cared about Howard's sarcastic remarks; in fact, the Warriors had a huge success this season!
Just two days ago, Bob Myers won the Executive of the Year award, and with Steve Kerr securing the Coach of the Year award, the Warriors can be considered the biggest winners of the regular season in 14-15.

Curry was overjoyed to receive the award. When he first entered the league, he was even worried about not being able to establish himself in the NBA. His "child labor contract" was a product of his lack of confidence in his body.

Now, not only has he led his team to 60+ wins, but he has also won major regular season awards, and the door to becoming a historical superstar has been opened for him.

The Warriors swept the Mavericks 4-1 in the first round. Monta Ellis performed well in the series, but he was a little sad to see his former teammate win the MVP.

Everyone knows that the Warriors are likely to become the league's favored team, and after the GOAT retires, Curry, who excels at three-pointers, will become "the next Lee".

-

On Tuesday the 5th, mainstream sports media gathered in San Francisco in the morning. As the Warriors' second MVP in franchise history, Curry naturally received a very respectable award ceremony from the team.

Steve Kerr was also dressed up at the time. As a rookie coach, this season can be described as a "dream start". He won 67 games in his first year as a coach, was selected as the Western Conference All-Star head coach, and locked in Coach of the Year.

In addition to his individual accolades, the redesigned tactical system also earned Curry the MVP award, something Steve Kerr is very proud of!

He kept exchanging pleasantries with the visiting media reporters, until someone from ESPN gossiped:
"Steve, Phil Jackson recently claimed that the disappearance of the post-up game would affect the development of basketball. What are your thoughts on this?"

Just at the end of last month, ESPN released relevant technical statistics:
Post-up plays have hit a record low this season, with only 8 teams completing 10% of their possessions with a post-up, compared to 22 teams 10 years ago.

The news has sparked concern among industry insiders, with veteran coaches such as George Karl and Phil Jackson speaking out, while the KFC founder, who strongly supports Kobe, has been the most vocal.

The Lakers were among the eight teams, with Kobe Bryant handling most of the post-up plays. After the news broke, Kobe was asked a similar question, but the veteran star simply replied with confidence:
"Basketball doesn't lie; you can follow the Lakers' playoff run."

The Warriors' opponent in the semifinals is the Grizzlies, and advancing to the conference finals should not be a problem. The clash of basketball philosophies has made everyone start to care about Steve Kerr's thoughts.

Despite playing under the legendary KFC manager and achieving success with the Chicago Bulls, Steve Kerr wasn't about to offer empty platitudes. When asked the question, he simply chuckled and countered with a question in return:
Do you know the secret to the Knicks' dominance in the league?

Steve Kerr, answering his own question without giving reporters much time to think, confidently stated:

"Three-point shooting and defense!"

"Li showed us the secret to winning a long time ago. In 98, he defeated the Chicago Bulls led by Michael Jordan with a style of play that was a generation ahead of its time."

"When Phil was assigning the defensive tasks, we were all frowning, but in the end, Michael said he would handle it."

"After that failure, I joined the Spurs, and as you all know, Lee started his own era."

Some young reporters, who had long forgotten about the washed-up Bulls, asked curiously when Steve Kerr reminisced about history:
Why hasn't anyone imitated the Knicks for so many years?

"My partner Alvin can probably answer this question more clearly. We did a pretty good job with the Suns, but defensively we were never up to the Knicks' level."

Steve Kerr gave himself a 90 out of 100 for his general manager career, a confident statement that garnered widespread approval. Seeing the curious expressions on the reporters' faces, he then added:
"Every team in the league wants to use the Knicks' tactical experience, but unfortunately, we can't find the next Lee."

"It takes time for young players to change. In the past, many people still did not believe in three-pointers. It wasn't until 07 that the situation changed completely."

"Curry won the MVP, but he still can't play like Lee. However, the Warriors' system can help him get closer to Lee, and that's enough."

"Guys, this is the Warriors' winning formula: build a system, when the right players become 'the next Lee,' and play good defense, we can become a championship-caliber team."

"As for the disappearance of the post-up game, I don't think it's a problem. Although the NBA has an entertainment aspect, the championship is everyone's eternal pursuit!"

Although Steve Kerr didn't boast about himself, everyone present understood the underlying message: the rookie coach was very satisfied with his tactical system.

Did the system contribute to Curry's achievements this season?
After careful consideration, the reporters agreed that the biggest difference between the Warriors and the Knicks was screens; Curry sometimes couldn't handle the ball and solve problems like the GOAT.

Curry, who won his first MVP award, still couldn't contain his excitement when he stood on the podium.

The young man's right hand trembled slightly as he leaned on the stage. In the eyes of some discerning veteran reporters, Curry was indeed no match for Li You, lacking a significant amount of confidence.
Curry was unaware of the criticism some people were giving him. He kept expressing his gratitude, and when he saw his grandmother in the audience with her hands clasped together, his voice began to tremble as he spoke about his family's support.

Unlike his previous MVP speeches, Curry expressed a great deal of gratitude and did not forget to reminisce about his love story with his wife at this pivotal moment in his career.

When talking about his father's career, both father and son had tears in their eyes. Curry was naturally very proud of his eldest son's achievements.

The whole process was very heartwarming, and Curry demonstrated his excellent education, which is exactly what the league wanted to see.

As he was about to conclude his speech, Curry finally regained control of his emotions, looked at the trophy on his left, turned his head, and said again:

"Finally, I also want to thank Lee for introducing me to basketball. I can't describe the shock I felt when I saw Lee play when I was a child. His three-pointers, his combination skills, and his big heart reshaped my basketball world!"

"As Lee tells us, one doesn't need to have special qualities or crazy experiences to succeed."

"Keep your passion for basketball and take this job seriously, and God will eventually reward you accordingly."

"I hope I can influence more young people to do their jobs well, stay humble, and be grateful. I am very honored to be selected as this year's MVP. Thank you again."

"Oh!!"

A burst of cheers and applause erupted in the media room. Curry, who was on the podium, could no longer contain his smile, raised the trophy again, and confidently displayed it in front of everyone.

Adam Silver, who witnessed this scene, was also very satisfied. Fans need "the next Lee," and Stephen Curry is the gift the league has given them!
At 19 p.m. that evening, Warriors fans gathered at Oracle Arena to witness Curry lift the trophy.

When Adam Silver announced Stephen Curry as the 14-15 regular season MVP, chants of "MVP" echoed throughout the arena.

On the Grizzlies' bench, Rudy Gay scoffed, clearly annoyed. He had no interest in witnessing a "weakling" like Curry receive an award, and he was particularly disdainful of the preferential treatment the Warriors received. Marc Gasol, on the other hand, wasn't envious, but he was also indifferent to Curry. The Warriors' screens were unparalleled in the league, and the Spanish big man knew that using the same move would likely result in a foul.

Zach Randolph lost respect for his opponent's double standards; he doesn't like second-generation players!
The game was about to begin, and on the TNT commentary desk, Kevin Harlan and Reggie Miller were still discussing Curry's growth this season. Miller, clearly having reviewed the statistics, praised him with reason and evidence:
"Curry was just a hair's breadth away from joining the 180 club; his 44.3% three-point shooting percentage is truly astonishing!"

“He maintained extremely high offensive efficiency throughout the season, and considering his playing time, 23.8 points per game is clearly not Curry’s limit.”

The director then showed a comparison chart, showing that Li You's three-point shooting percentage this year is still an unremarkable 48.6%, a level he has maintained in recent years, which is commonplace for casual viewers.

In comparison, Curry's shooting percentage appears less efficient.
After showcasing Curry's stats, TNT went on to highlight Lee Woo's absurd efficiency this season, scoring 30+ points in 30 minutes in 34 games.

Lee Woo has played 68 games this season, an efficiency that is "inhuman," setting a new historical record for the number of games played this season alone.

Kevin Harlan knows TNT's broadcasts are good at stirring up trouble, but he genuinely admires Curry and didn't forget to speak well of the young man as the game was about to begin:
"MVP night, Stephen Curry can enjoy this night."

"A career milestone, not about being the 'next Lee,' Curry can fully showcase himself."

Once the game started, Oracle Arena turned into a sea of ​​gold. The MVP made many young fans extra engaged in the game. Compared to ordinary stars, everyone prefers to follow a superstar.

Perhaps because his teammates wanted Curry to perform, the Warriors' offensive rhythm faltered at the start of the game, and many of their passes were ineffective against the Grizzlies' targeted defense.

Rudy Gay didn't hold back either, seizing the Warriors' passing error, stealing the ball at the top of the court, and finishing with a tomahawk dunk over Harrison Barnes who was on the defensive!
"what!"

He roared with passion after landing, and even bumped chests with Courtney Lee to celebrate while running back on defense.

Zach Randolph's strong offense caused some trouble for the Warriors, and Draymond Green picked up two fouls early and was substituted out of the game.

Head coach Steve Kerr was also a bit frustrated. After hesitating for a moment, he conservatively substituted in the big man Ezeli.

With their tactical system disrupted, the score was 29-22 at the end of the first quarter. Curry scored 7 points efficiently, going 3-for-5 from the field and 1-for-1 from three-point range, but his team was still trailing.

Before the start of the second quarter, head coach Dave Joerger appeared to be in good spirits during an interview, confidently stating his strategy for tonight's game:

"We are a team that uses defense to drive offense, but that doesn't mean the Grizzlies won't take the initiative to attack."

"Continuing with this aggressive approach, we're not chasing three-pointers; as long as we can get the ball in the basket, the Grizzlies will win the game."

As one of the teams that insists on using the post-up technique, the Grizzlies' playing style is completely different from the Warriors'. Dave Joerger has also been envious of Kerr, the rookie coach, and tonight he wants to teach him a lesson!
The Warriors fans at the stadium were still hoping that their team would narrow the gap in the second quarter, but unexpectedly, after Klay Thompson missed several shots, Curry, who returned to the court, also seemed to be playing the role of a bricklayer.

Amidst low cheers, the Warriors nearly knocked their own rim off balance. Their backcourt duo went 2-for-13 from the field and 1-for-8 from three-point range, with Curry and Thompson combining for 5 points!
At halftime, the score was 54-39. Curry, walking towards the player tunnel, looked rather grim; this was not the MVP night he had been hoping for.

-

On Friday, May 15th, the Warriors and the Grizzlies faced off in Game 5, a crucial match for pride.

Perhaps due to the exhaustion from the Game 3 in the first round, the Grizzlies went on a downward spiral after winning one away game, losing three straight games and allowing the Warriors to easily take the series lead.

Oracle Arena was buzzing with excitement that night. The Warriors were about to enter the conference finals, while the Lakers were locked in a tough battle with the Clippers, which meant the home team would have more time to rest!

After a lackluster MVP night, Curry exploded, teaming up with Klay Thompson in the first quarter tonight to unleash a barrage of three-pointers.

Despite leading by 8 points at halftime, the Warriors were unable to extend their lead. After a hard-fought fourth quarter, Curry once again stepped up, showcasing his MVP caliber.

The Warriors outscored the Warriors 32-27 in the quarter, securing the victory. As the hum of the engines filled Oracle Arena, the crowd erupted in cheers, with Curry shouting with passion. They had advanced to the conference finals.

出场39分钟，25中11，三分线外13中8，罚球2中2，库里高效砍下32分6篮板10助攻4失误的两双数据！
In a post-game interview with ESPN, Curry responded for the first time to the critics' doubts about his scoring, expressing his frustration at being mocked despite winning an award.

"I know my own abilities. With targeted defense, I can still score 30+ points!"

"But I care more about winning the game than scoring. I will play according to the coach's requirements, and I will step up and take over the game when necessary."

"."

After a few harsh words, Curry, in high spirits, started thanking his teammates, which left the ESPN team somewhat disappointed. They all hoped the new MVP would say, "I am the best point guard in the league."

Compared to Kobe's obsessive confidence, Curry's personality lacks narrative appeal, making it difficult for this MVP to truly become the "face" of the league.

In the home team's locker room after the game, Iguodala was beaming with joy. He played a key role in changing the course of the series, and the Warriors' "death lineup" left the Grizzlies bewildered.

The young players were cheering and celebrating. The conference finals were already a dream for many. At this moment, they had surpassed 90% of the players in the league.

Curry repeatedly high-fived his teammates in celebration. When he reached Iguodala, the veteran and the younger player bumped fists, showing his appreciation for the young man's personality.

"Don't fall into the media's trap, Stephen. If we make it to the Finals, remember to keep praising Lee in the interviews!"

"I've witnessed too many unlucky guys who end up being mocked by unscrupulous journalists who just laugh at losers and slap a bad label on them."

"Iverson was the most unlucky one, you know, my experience in Philadelphia was like a nightmare."

Since joining the Warriors, Andre Iguodala has occasionally shared his nightmarish experiences with the 76ers, losing all six of his seasons against New York.

His failure to defend Li You not only drew ridicule from New York fans, but also angered Philadelphia fans, who held daily "meetings" with him afterward.

Although he only spent one season with the Warriors, Iguodala felt happier there than during his six-plus years in Philadelphia and his brief stint with the Lakers!

Seeing that Curry didn't seem to take the veteran's words to heart, Draymond Green, who witnessed the Pistons' disintegration, also whispered:

"New York fans are a bunch of lunatics. Lee created this group of lunatics. They're not as good as you think."

Despite the Knicks' forum on Reddit sometimes mocking young people, Curry has always felt that the Big Apple is the holy grail of basketball, his "white moonlight".

Now that they have a chance to reach the Finals, even a veteran like Iguodala gets a little nervous when he says something, which makes Curry a little frustrated. He keeps a smile and simply replies:

"I know what I need to do. Don't overthink it. There's still the regional finals. I don't want to miss this opportunity this year!"

Seeing Curry's expectant look, Iguodala could only shrug. In the veteran's opinion, the 67-win Warriors had a very low winning percentage against the GOAT.

On the contrary, in the conference finals, the Warriors have a better chance of winning against either the Lakers or the Clippers, with their brand-new tactical system completely defeating old-school basketball.

Klay Thompson, usually a man of few words, let loose a bit after the team made it to the conference finals, pulling Barnes and a few others into a water fight in the locker room, with everyone excitedly yelling:

"Champions! No one can stop us!"

"." (End of this chapter)