Rekindling the dream of becoming a star

Chapter 192 First Day at USC

When the news that Chen Fang officially joined the University of Southern California (USC) Trojans came out, countless people were surprised.

The news contained very little content, only a photo of Chen Fang and Andy, both of them raising a No. 21 USC red jersey.

Some industry insiders were obviously surprised by the news, and some even thought that the Chinese had made a wrong move.

After all, in the most recent ranking in 16, USC did not even make the top . It is definitely not a strong team, not even in the traditional sense.

Among the four universities in California, Southern California ranks last, and in the PAC-12 league, it is also in the middle to lower level. No matter how hard you think about it, it is incomprehensible why a five-star high school student would go to this university.

Some media people who were very optimistic about Chen Fang before even made pessimistic comments: Chen Fang's originally very optimistic NBA road has become extremely critical. If he performs poorly, his draft stock will continue to decline, and he may not even reach the second round.

The domestic media also listened to rumors and discussed Chen Fang's choice.

The bad nature of some Chinese fans is aroused, and once their tolerance level is exceeded, they will turn from passers-by to haters.

There are too many reports about Chen Fang, and fans who follow basketball content are beginning to get annoyed. On Hupu, some people have begun to speak out and make sarcastic comments.

Chen Fang's fans rose up to fight back, causing the entire forum to be in flames. This phenomenon exacerbated the resentment of the larger number of passers-by fans. Some of them watched the show, some played Infernal Affairs, and caused all kinds of trouble.

In late August, it began in this atmosphere.

(I must say something fair on behalf of some stars. In fact, the vast majority of stars never consciously seek publicity. Instead, the media, seeking traffic, uses the stars' names to constantly hype them up. The vast majority of anti-fans are created by the media. If it were just game news, there wouldn't be a problem.)
Chen Fang is very busy now. He has gained three most from this Olympic trip.

1. Fully understand your own problems.

2. Gain the friendship and respect of some teammates in the national team.

3. Completely increase your own popularity and become a true public figure.

Unexpectedly, Guo Ailun also came to Los Angeles. Chen Fang contacted Drew, believing that asking them to help Xiao Ding and Allen would be a win-win situation from a functional and commercial perspective.

Sure enough, Drew quickly brought a team over. Tatum was already at Duke and was now in a vacant period.

Not only that, Chen Fang also applied for a third round of special training, and his training team also came to Los Angeles.

Carl, Hannon, and Wick will work out how to help Chen Fang adapt to the intensity of the upcoming NCAA games.

In a sense, the trainer is one's family and also one's doctor. Chen Fang told the trainer all his problems. After the group pondered for a while, Carl expressed his opinion first.

"I've encountered the situation you mention before, but it wasn't quite this severe. However, your concerns are worth taking seriously." Carl paused. "Typically, a season consists of 35 games. These games are a very tight schedule, usually spaced two or three days apart, from mid-November to early March of the following year."

"If your problem is not accidental but routine, it will undoubtedly greatly affect your performance."

“Is USC clear now?”

Chen Fang shook his head: "I'm still hesitating."

"You are right to hesitate, but don't say anything yet. This will greatly affect your position in the team." Hannon also spoke.

He continued: "To be the core of a team, the key point is stable performance. Ups and downs mean failure, which will greatly affect your draft stock."

Chen Fang nodded calmly and clapped his hands: "So, three brothers, I'm counting on you."

The three of them exchanged glances, and Wick spoke up. He had been listening and already had some ideas in mind. "First, we need to improve your physical fitness. Let me use an analogy: you're a battery. We need to improve not only your discharge efficiency but also your storage capacity."

"That makes sense!" Chen Fang agreed.

"You need to have better physical reserves. Fortunately, there is still time now. You need to adjust the time allocation between your team training and special training."

"Understood. I will allocate ample time."

"Also, I will teach you how to properly allocate your energy on the court so that you can play efficiently without wasting more energy," Carl said.

"The same goes for defense. I will formulate a promotion plan from simple to difficult. I believe that in two months, your offense and defense will be greatly improved." Hannon also spoke.

The preliminary concept has been agreed upon, and all that remains is to get a quote from Drew.

Speaking of money, Chen Fang suddenly had an idea that day and did some calculations. From October 14 to now, including the three stages of mountain training, national youth team and going to the United States, he counted all the eating, drinking, defecating, urinating, and training.

In 20 months, million RMB has been spent on Chen Fang.

This number is exaggerated, but the effect is also significant. After getting the result, Chen Fang was also moved that behind the success is the investment of countless amounts of money.

But at the same time, it is extremely cost-effective. If anyone in charge comes to choose it, one out of 10 will be put on display, and the million is well spent.

But if this 10 million yuan is to be borne by an individual, no one would dare to take the risk.

Chen Fang didn't dwell on this question. It wasn't something he could intervene in right now. He would only make his own contributions to Chinese basketball in the future, when he had a greater say. (By the way, Yao Ming had better options and solutions, but he chose to intervene, ultimately losing to fate. What a shame.)
As for Xiao Ding and Allen, Chen Fang had a thought in mind. A hero needs three helpers. He needed to get more helpers and like-minded comrades in the team. When Zhao Rui came in, he would have more say in the team.

Chen Fang has great ambitions for the future national team, even if it becomes the Chen family team. As long as it can produce results, the future sports bureau will lower its status and make plans. Why can't my one-man show work?

After finishing the discussion here, Chen Fang went to the next gym. Drew was watching Xiaoding and Allen's ability display training, looking for problems and making special training plans. When he saw Chen Fang coming, Drew stood up immediately.

He now respects Chen Fang very much, not only because he values his future, but also because he is grateful for the kindness Chen Fang has shown him.

Introducing members of the national team to him would be a great favor and would be enough to help him open up this treasure trove of China.

With Yao in front and Chen behind, the dream of becoming a billionaire depends on Chen Fang.

The domestic economy is too expensive, it’s more cost-effective to go abroad.

This was what Drew was thinking, and of course Chen Fang understood it very well. The two of them bumped shoulders and patted each other's backs intimately, and after an American hug, they went straight to the point.

"Let's put aside technical skills first and focus on physical strength. We also need to give them a comprehensive physical examination to identify potential problems and develop a rehabilitation plan. If all goes well, more national team-level Chinese players will come to the United States and attend your training camps in the future."

Chatting with Americans is so direct, forget about beating around the bush. Chen Fang has started to get used to this way and doesn't want to be too tired.

"Understood. Are they clear about this?"

"For me, no problem."

"Understood. I'll contact the relevant person right away." Drew took out his phone.

Chen Fang also walked onto the court and interrupted training.

Calling Xiao Ding and Allen over, Chen Fang said, "You'll pay for the expenses yourself. We've agreed on this before, but I'll take care of the rest. Just stay over there. There are plenty of rooms."

"Drew is an NBA-level trainer, but I think we should put aside the technical aspects for now and solve the most lacking things in China here first."

(First of all, I'm not being stupid. Rehabilitation technology in the United States is world-class, as it's the largest commercial sports country in the world. When it comes to sports injuries, they're truly number one. As for medical care, it's certainly not the best. For some serious illnesses, going to the United States can actually lead to faster death and more expensive expenses. There are many such examples, so I won't go into detail.)
"You have been playing basketball for so many years, and you have all these old injuries and ailments. This time, you will first get a comprehensive checkup, then a rehabilitation plan, and finally the technical level."

"Any opinions?" Chen Fang asked.

Both shook their heads, and Guo Ailun said casually: "You have the final say, and I obey. In this American world, you are the boss."

Chen Fang smiled and said, "Maintaining a healthy career is the best way to go. The capital of revolution is the body."

"Especially you, Xiao Ding. You have a lot of problems. I hope you won't cry when the time comes."

Ding Yanyuhang's face turned pale, and he asked calmly, "Why?"

"You like to use digging steps too much when you break through, and you put too much pressure on your body when changing direction, especially your lower body. You don't have complete muscles. If you continue like this, you will be ruined in two years." Chen Fang was not polite. Since Xiao Ding had come to the United States with him, he would be in charge of his fate.

I don’t ask you to be a big shot on the court in the future, I just hope to see you playing every game.

This is a simple Chinese fan's good wish for Ding Yanyuhang.

As for Guo Ailun, Chen Fang wants him to step out of his comfort zone. Even playing in the Development League in the United States is more interesting than being at home, crying every day. He is 30 years old, but he is still like a baby and needs fans from all over the country to coax him.

But it is also clear that his relationship with Liaoning is too deep, and saying too much will only make people dislike him. In fact, Guo Ailun came out in 16, which is already late. At the age of 23, it is difficult for him to have channels for promotion.

First, try to find a place to stay, and then try to retain her.

After Chen Fang explained the matter, he rushed to Nanchang without stopping.

The University of Southern California is located south of downtown Los Angeles, close to downtown Los Angeles and many cultural, entertainment and commercial facilities.

USC is also very famous, and its most famous thing is its film and television major. It has many Hollywood alumni and has connections in the entire film and television circle.

More than 40 USC alumni form a supportive and close-knit community spanning the globe, forming a remarkable and extraordinary "TROJAN family," ranging from business tycoons to government ministers, Hollywood celebrities to Olympic gold medalists.

At the same time, USC has another nickname that is often used to mock it: a gathering place for rich second-generations.

Because of the tuition fees and certain majors, some poor students always find loopholes. Especially in China, studying abroad at the University of Southern California is the best way for poor students to gild themselves.

Why do I say this? Some courses at USC have no entry requirements. Even if you do not have a qualified TOEFL/IELTS or GRE/GMAT score, you can still be admitted to the master's degree program at the University of Southern California.

It’s just that the tuition fees will be very expensive.

Southern California uses a semester system. The nine-month school year is divided into two 16-week semesters. Each semester usually has about weeks of teaching and one week of final exams.

The first semester starts at the end of August and ends in mid-to-late December of the same year. The second semester starts in early January and ends in late May.

After the formal semester ends, students are free to choose summer courses (Summer session).

American universities emphasize credits, with one hour of class per week equaling one semester credit. Typically, a course with three hours of class per week earns three credits. At schools with a semester system, students typically need 120-128 semester credits to graduate.

This is something that every student must complete, no matter who they are. Many NBA stars return to school during the summer to earn credits and get a diploma. For example, Brown even got two diplomas, solidifying his image as a top student.

Chen Fang naturally needed it as well. He was rushing back to attend a team meeting specially held for him. All the players were present to get to know him.

This is also a crucial step in determining whether he can get off to a successful start.

Park the car. Now Chen Fang has obtained an American driver's license. Usually, he has this, which is equivalent to an ID card. When the police check, he can just take this. Of course, you have to put both hands where the other party can see them.

If you are a black person, you have to shut your mouth, keep emphasizing that you are a good citizen, and keep your hands outside the car window.

All of USC’s sports teams are called Trojans. The place Chen Fang is going to now is the home stadium of the school team: the Galen Center.

This name is so domineering, the king in the bush, the first choice for every LOL beginner.

Just one word about Demacia and it gets exciting!
While walking on the campus, Chen Fang suddenly stopped. He saw a very strange scene: a huge statue wrapped in tinfoil, with a teddy bear doll hanging on the protrusion.

Chen Fang walked over, but was stopped by a student-looking man standing next to the statue.

"What can I do for you?" Velen, with red hair and a freckled face, looked at Chen Fang, who was a head taller than him, and asked bluntly.

"Why do you have to wrap it like this?" Chen Fang asked.

"Prevent some boring and hateful UCLA fans from causing trouble." said Weilun Han.

"What kind of statue is this? Why was it destroyed?" Chen Fang became interested. He then asked, "Is this referring to the UCLA Bruins?"

"Of course, isn't it normal for us Trojans to fight brown bears with swords?" Velen replied.

"Aren't you a USC student?" Velen immediately became alert.

"I just arrived and am walking around the campus." Chen Fang's curiosity was satisfied. He walked out and asked, "When can I see this statue?"

"Game day!" Velen replied.

(This is a true story. The one next to it is a tent. A week before each game, members of the Trojan Knights would take turns guarding it 24 hours a day.)
USC and UCLA are notorious rivals. During the annual game week between USC and UCLA, UCLA students once sneaked into USC and painted the Tommy Trojans in UCLA's main colors of blue and gold.

In order to protect Tommy Trojan, USC will wrap the bronze statue with tape one week before the game between the two teams every year.

In addition, the Trojan Knights, a group of students who formed their own organization, will sit by the statue 24 hours a day to protect it. A UCLA mascot, the bear, will be hung upside down on the Trojan warriors' swords. "Fight On Trojans!" Chen Fang was very satisfied. He arrived at the Galen Center. Busen had been waiting for a long time at the side. When he saw Chen Fang, he immediately waved.

A few minutes later, Chen Fang arrived on the field, and the entire coaching team and players were present.

The Trojans basketball team has a total coaching staff of nine. (Just to clarify, the photo of Andy was wrong earlier. The real Andy is very handsome and thin. I will update and correct it later.)
Head coach: Andy Enfield.

Associate Head Coach: Tony Brand.

Two assistant coaches: Jason Hart and Chris Capko.

Player Director: Martin Bahar.

Director of Operations: Michael Sweets.

Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach: Kurtis Schultz.

Athletic Trainer: Jon Minamin.

Chief Assistant: Busen.

The players are as follows:

0 Shaqquan Aaron 6-7
25 Benny Boatwright 6-10
12 Devin Fleming 6-2
3 Harrison Henderson 6-10
21 Kurt Kallis 6-1 (has selected new number 33)
2 Jonah Matthews 6-3
11 Jordan McLaughlin 6-1
22 DE Anthony Melton 6-4
4 Chimezi Metu 6-11
31 Nick Rakocevic 6-11
30 Elijah Stewart 6-5
5 Derek Thornton 6-2
Chen Fang stood beside Andy with a solemn expression, examining the people who were about to become his teammates one by one. Eight of the 12 people were from California, and they were also curious about Chen Fang's arrival.

Because not only is Chen Fang the second five-star high school student of the Trojans, but he is also the second player to become a core player as a freshman. This honor is surprising and caused a huge stir in the team.

The first one of USC is DeMar DeRozan, who also joined USC in 2008 as a top five five-star high school student in the United States. At the end of his freshman season, DeRozan was selected to the Pac-10 (Pacific 10 Conference, now Pac-12) League Rookie Best Team and won the MVP award in the Pac-12 Conference Championship.

Then he participated in the draft in 09 and was selected by the Raptors with the ninth pick, starting his NBA career.

USC also has an active NBA alumnus, Nikola Vucevic, who participated in the draft in 11 and played until his junior year at USC. He and DeRozan are teammates. Both of them have deep feelings for USC and they meet at their alma mater for training every offseason.

Is he the second DeRozan? With mixed emotions, everyone was carefully examining Chen Fang.

This grand meeting was also unpleasant, but everyone controlled their emotions well and waited and saw what would happen.

With Chen Fang's experience, he can understand some of the emotions hidden in people's eyes.

"It seems not very friendly!" He thought to himself, but it was also expected. If he were in his place, he would be unhappy too.

It doesn’t matter, you’ll be convinced after a few games.

If you don't agree, just keep fighting. Anyway, it's still early before the competition starts in November.

"My name is Chen Fang, I'm from China. You can call me by my nickname, Big Falcon. I'm very happy to join the Trojans. This is a team that makes me excited. The reason I chose USC is because UCLA rejected me. They selected Lonzo and wanted me to be his backup."

Chen Fang's opening remarks shocked the entire audience. No one could have expected that Chen Fang would suddenly reveal the reason for his selection.

But at the same time, Chen Fang's words touched the heart of the entire team, and even the deputy head coach Tony Brand, who had been opposing it, showed an expression of appreciation.

"I will return this humiliation to the Brown Bears. At the same time, I very much hope that because of my joining, the Trojans can make it to the championship in the 16-17 season and create our own glory."

"As for whether I have the strength to say this, everyone is welcome to find the answer in the following training and confrontation."

"My introduction is over. Thank you all for coming today."

The applause went from scattered to unanimous in just a second or two. Andy excitedly announced, "Boys, this season is very important, so training starts tomorrow. I hope everyone can perform well. No one is an absolute starter, so let your attitude determine your playing time."

Then, Andy took Chen Fang to introduce everyone on the coaching staff and brought them to Tony Brand. The stern, tall black man shook his hand and said, "Action is the best persuasion."

"Yes, I believe your opinion will change soon." Chen Fang answered calmly.

Next, it was time to face the strength and conditioning assistant coach: Kurtis Schultz, a white man who looked to weigh at least 300 pounds. He shook Chen Fang's hand with his large, fan-like hand and said, "You look like you need to get stronger."

"I am looking forward to your training plan, sir." Chen Fang did not say much, but he had a hunch that this man's sports philosophy would inevitably conflict with Wick's plan.

Finally, it was sports trainer Jon Minamin, a middle-aged man with obvious Asian descent. He smiled and said, "I'm certified in functional science, Owens Recovery Science, SFMA, myofascial decompression, Hawkgrips, and NASM corrective exercise specialist. I hope I can be of help to you in the days ahead."

"Thank you very much. It's an honor to work with you." Chen Fang's answer was also very formal.

(This is an excerpt from the USC official website. Interested readers can leave a message and I will send you the address. You can browse it yourself. It also introduces the main people who will be connected in the future, so I won’t waste words.)
Then he greeted his teammates and started introducing the current starting lineup.

He was on the first team as a freshman and became the main point guard in his sophomore year. This year, USC's most relied-on scorer, No. 30 Elijah Stewart, is a 6-5 foot, 198 cm tall guard.

Number 0, Shaqquan Aaron, is a 6-7, 200cm tall small forward, also a junior. He transferred from the Louisville Cardinals two years ago and returned home to join USC. (NCAA regulations allow transfers, but they do not allow him to play in games that year.)
No. 4 Chimezie Metu is a 6-11, 210cm tall sophomore center.

25号本尼·博特赖特 6-10英尺，208的大二级大前锋。（23-24赛季山西队的签约外援）

No. 11 Jordan McLaughlin is a 6-1, 185cm sophomore point guard. (This guy is also an active NBA player, currently with the Kings, on a minimum salary.)
The others didn't care, but McLaughlin looked at Chen Fang with an unhappy look, and as soon as Chen Fang arrived, he took his seat.

But this is the NCAA, no one can guarantee a position, and newcomers are always better than old ones.

But after Chen Fang took a look around, he suddenly felt confident. It was obvious that this group of people were good at fighting and they were a team with a good foundation. He felt confident instantly.

The fact is just as Chen Fang felt. In the 16-17 season, Troy was very strong. Here is the record for everyone to see.

(WIN stands for victory. You can count the number of consecutive wins yourself.)
After finishing all this, Chen Fang returned to his residence, which was a small villa specially granted to Chen Fang by the team. It was surrounded by faculty and staff and had a total of five rooms, so Chen Fang had the confidence to tell Guo Ailun and Xiao Ding that he would take care of everything.

Wu Zi just came back, looking tired.

"What's wrong?" Chen Fang asked with concern.

"The university's welcome party (orientation week is a mandatory process in American universities. It lasts for a week and its purpose is to break the ice and speed up your integration into the school and classmates) is too tiring," Wu Zi explained.

"I guess I should too. It's something we have to go through. What do you want to eat today?" Chen Fang went to look for an apron.

"Let me do it from now on. You need to train every day." Wu Zi came over to help: "I've learned almost everything."

"Cooking for my wife is a great blessing. Please don't deprive me of my happiness." Chen Fang said seriously.

Nice words are always touching. Wu Zi suddenly felt less tired and hugged Chen Fang from behind, saying coquettishly, "My husband is so nice."

"That's right, he's handsome and good at fighting, where else can you find him!" Chen Fang took the opportunity to act arrogantly.

"Fuck, it's an eyesore as soon as you come in!" Lu Yun rushed in, and Wu Zi quickly let go, his face flushed.

"Can't you knock on the door? What are you doing with your hands?" Chen Fang was unhappy.

"Okay, okay, for the sake of my eyes and my body and mind, I will definitely remember it."

The two argued for a few words and then returned to the topic.

"How does it feel?" Lu Yun asked.

"Okay, this team is not bad, I have confidence."

"Have you solved your problem now?"

Chen Fang did not hide this from Lu Yun. Hearing this, he sighed, "Not yet. I'm actively trying to find a solution."

"I think we can seek help from our country. Our ancestors really understand the spirit."

This word woke Chen Fang up from his dream, and he immediately thought of Mr. Zhao.

He slapped his forehead hard. The old immortal was right in front of him, why not worship him?

Not long ago, Chen Fang found out that Mr. Zhao was almost 90 years old. He was really shocked because he had always thought he was only in his sixties or seventies.

Suddenly, he turned from Old Man Zhao into Immortal Zhao.

After finishing all this, Chen Fang went to find the boss Zhang Shaohong. After some explanation, an hour later, Chen Fang had a video call with Mr. Zhao.

"Master, your closed disciple Chen Fang greets you." Chen Fang looked pious.

"Get out of here. You didn't say a word during the New Year, and now you're trying to do this?" Old Master Zhao blew his beard and glared.

"Hehe, isn't there any contact information for you?" Chen Fang blushed.

"Xiao Zhang told me, and I thought it was no big deal." Mr. Zhao didn't waste any words.

"The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine says: When you are calm, your spirit is hidden; when you are agitated, your spirit is gone. Your problem lies in these eight words."

"It is said in Suwen: 'When you are calm and empty, the true qi will follow; when you keep your spirit within, you will never get sick. You should meditate not before a competition, but every day, when you wake up in the morning, when you practice boxing and meditate.'"

“Every day, go to a quiet place with a broad view, or climb a mountain, or look at the sea. First, look around, remember what you see in your mind, then meditate and transform yourself into the sea or the mountain.”

"Persevere and your spirit will be as strong as the scorching sun. At this point, your problem is no longer a problem. Instead, you need more games to quench your fire."

"Also, you need to strengthen your essence and not be promiscuous." When he said this, Mr. Zhao's expression was not serious at all, but he was laughing.

It was disrespectful to the elder, but Chen Fang said, "I will follow the orders of my master."

"I asked Xiao Zhao to give you my contact information. You have to talk to me once a week. There are some things I hope you can take seriously."

"What's the matter?" Chen Fang was surprised.

"Since you said you are my last disciple, I have to fulfill the responsibilities of a master. I can't just assume that you won't live long." The old man sighed.

"What?" Chen Fang's face turned pale. "Master, don't scare me."

"As the saying goes, 'Every inch taller, every minute shorter.' How can height guarantee longevity? You're almost two meters tall now, and you're good at basketball, but can you accept starting to fade away in your sixties?"

"Ah!" Chen Fang seemed to have his memory opened up and he understood everything at once.

(This is the law of nature, and it cannot be transcended. Perhaps only by learning internal martial arts can one live longer. Professional basketball players rarely make it past 45. Their health declines precipitously after , and at they are already entering a stage where sudden death is a possibility. So being short does have its advantages.)
"Study hard, and I will ensure that you have no worries." Mr. Zhao's words were half true and half false, but Chen Fang didn't dare to have any other thoughts now. He kowtowed to the ground respectfully in front of the phone.

"Okay, I'm going fishing now. As for my identity as an air force officer, eh!" Mr. Zhao hung up the video.

Zhang Shaohong next to him couldn't help but complain: "Grandpa, why are you scaring him? He is only 18 years old, still a child."

"He's already past school age, so now we can only try to make up for it. If you want him to be good at basketball, that's your business. In my opinion, the inheritance of my Wudang is more important."

The old man turned away and sent the man away. Zhang Shaohong didn't dare to say anything more. He even broke out in a cold sweat after hearing what he heard. Anyone would ignore such a thing.

Wu Zi came in and saw Chen standing there in a daze with a very bad look on his face, so she became worried.

"What's wrong? Whose phone number is it?"

"It's okay, it's not at home, it's a small matter." Chen Fang regained his composure and laughed.

Perhaps this is the price of fame.

Chen Fang decided not to think about it for the time being, but when he hugged Wu Zi at night, he sighed.

“Today is really wonderful!”

　After one chapter, the story gets on track and moves forward quickly. I'm not a big fan of this, I've always been into the main storyline, and the side stories are all explained in a few sentences.

　　I also know that no matter how little money is, it is still money. Everyone’s money doesn’t come from the wind. Being able to save a little is my way of showing my appreciation to the book friends who support me.

　　Thank you all for your support!

　　
　
(End of this chapter)