Rekindling the dream of becoming a star

Chapter 255: The Battle to Stop Defeat
On November 11th, the Clippers will play against the Grizzlies at home.

Chen Fang started the game, played for 28 minutes, scored 21 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds, and led the team to eight consecutive wins, which attracted the attention of the entire league. No one expected that the Clippers, who lost Paul, could beat the Warriors and Rockets in the Western Conference and rank first.

Just when everyone started predicting how many consecutive wins the Clippers could achieve, the Clippers lost cleanly to the Spurs on the road on November 11.

ESPN used a blood-red headline to explain why the Clippers lost.

Robot Tearing a Falcon Apart

Chen Fang played for 27 minutes, got 8 points and 4 assists, and was completely suppressed by Leonard. The scene was extremely bloody. A reporter joked: "If Clippers fans didn't watch this game for some reason, it must be God who had mercy on him."

The Spurs defeated the triumphant Clippers 96 to 74.

伦纳德28分6助攻8篮板4断3帽，数据冠绝全场，尤其令人津津乐道是4断3帽，陈放一人就贡献了3断2帽。

Some media outlets mocked, "The young bird's wings were ruthlessly broken."

Head coach Rivers sat alone at the press conference with a serious face. When asked by reporters about the reason for the defeat, he replied: "We are still a team that is still in the process of running in. The rookies and veterans are adapting to each other. The Spurs are a great team. Their defense has always been the best in the league. Kawhi is one of the best players in the league. It is normal to lose."

A reporter asked why Chen Fang did not come to the press conference, whether he felt it was too embarrassing?
Rivers shook his head: "Nonsense, as usual, it's always the best performing player, and obviously it wasn't him today."

Then Rivers hurriedly answered a few questions and left, quickly leading the entire Clippers team to evacuate the AT Center.

The first defeat of the season seemed to open a gap. In the following back-to-back games, the Clippers faced the Thunder's Big Three and the Pelicans' Davis + Cousins combination, and suffered the bitter fruit of three consecutive losses. Their ranking in the Western Conference also dropped directly to fourth.

It only took four days for them to go from first to fourth, which shows how fierce the competition in the Western Conference is.

It was so magical that many media outlets lost their voices. Until the Clippers returned to Los Angeles, a large amount of criticism and doubts came overwhelmingly.

Some criticized Rivers' large-scale rotation and rest of the main players, which led to the fluctuating quality of the game and loss of stability. Some also questioned that Chen Fang's personal ability was not matched with the single-core leadership of the team. Not only that, he also took turns to rest to stagger travel.

This kind of doubt finally reached its peak when the team lost to the visiting 76ers at home after leading by 16 points in the third quarter.

Despite this truce, Chen Fang could not escape criticism.

Not only the California media, but the entire United States was laughing at the Clippers. This short-lived performance was hilarious.

If it weren't for the two super-giant performances in Golden State and Dallas, perhaps there would be no voices questioning Chen Fang, because after playing 11 games (with two games of rest), the Chinese's average of 17.6 points per game still ranks first on the rookie list.

When the Clippers, leaderless, clearly could only rely on Chen Fang, you failed. This kind of thing that gave people expectations and then disappointed them caused a strong sense of dissatisfaction.

Some fans directly posted a post to mock him: MVP? He is not even a star! He just happened to play a few good games.

Public opinion is like a clipper ship in a storm, swaying unsteadily.

However, many reporters and commentators did not join in the criticism, but simply expressed that this is normal, every team will be in poor form at some stage, and it is too early to define it now.

But some well-known commentators, such as O'Neal, expressed his concerns because the Clippers' next schedule is a five-game road trip.

O'Neal said: The bad schedule may increase the number of losing streaks.

Starting from November 11, the Clippers will embark on an 18-day, 8-game road trip. They will fly to the East to play against the Cavaliers, Hornets, Knicks, and Hawks, and return to the West on November 5 to play against the Kings before returning to Los Angeles.

On November 11th, they faced their old rival, the Lakers.

This schedule is extremely difficult in terms of the intensity of the games and the distance traveled. Given the Clippers' current situation, this losing streak will continue.

So, the gloating media began to predict how many consecutive losses the Clippers would have.

From predicting a few consecutive wins to a few consecutive losses, it happened in the blink of an eye, making people sigh at the impermanence of life.

But all this did not affect Chen Fang, or to be more precise, it did not affect the entire team.

It all started with the team meeting Rivers held in the locker room after playing against the Grizzlies on November 11.

"The coaching staff has some ideas. In view of the tough schedule in the second half of November, we have decided to rotate the players. The main players will take turns to rest and the playing time will be adjusted. We will play some new tactics and focus on defense to explore some targeted measures."

"Maybe we will face a losing streak and people will question us, but I believe that when Blake returns, we will transform into a playoff-level team."

"All the pressure is borne by the coaching staff. The management has agreed to this plan. Externally, we need to be cautious in what we say and do. Internally, we need to trust each other and find the answer that will make the Clippers strong in this difficult schedule."

Chen Fang found Rivers after the meeting. He expressed his uneasiness and wondered if this arrangement was made because of him, but he got an unexpected answer.

"There are too many away games in November, and our chances of losing are greatly increased. In addition, Blake's foot injury will take him until December to return, and your physical fitness is also a problem. So it is a smart choice to take this opportunity to adjust the strategy and train new players and new tactics through the game."

"What you have to do is be more efficient in shorter playing time and learn how to win."

"We will improve together through competition. This period will be hard, but I believe we will gain more." Rivers said and left the meeting room.

He came outside and Brian was waiting for him.

The two found a quiet place, and after drinking a cup, Rivers sighed and said, "Wait for me at the door, what do you think?"

"No, I'm just worried that you'll become a scapegoat," Brian said.

“Although the management tacitly agreed and even instructed you to make the adjustments, it doesn’t mean that they won’t let you take the blame when things get out of hand.”

"You know, they might be thinking about changing the coach."

Rivers was unmoved: "When I was in the Magic, you were still a scout for the Lakers?"

"Yes, I became an assistant coach in 04, working under Phil Jackson."

"Do you remember my situation in magic?"

"which year?"

"From 01 to 03, those three years in the Magic were really torturous. Except for McGrady, all the main players were recovering from injuries. Some were old, some were disabled."

"I could only rely on McGrady and hope for McGrady, but I knew in my heart that I couldn't rely on him for the rest of my life, and McGrady couldn't lead the team to the finals."

"At that time, I didn't have the courage to change. I was reluctant to give up my regular season ranking and attached too much importance to winning. If I had given more rookies the opportunity and responsibilities to play, I would not have been reversed by the Pistons. This shameful record will always be on my head." Rivers pointed to his head, his eyes showing anger and unwillingness.

"Now, don't you think they look alike? Chen Fang is like McGrady. Of course, he's still very immature and has many flaws, but the situation is actually similar, isn't it?"

Brian thought about it and nodded: "It's a bit similar."

"I don't want to make the same mistake again. I'll take advantage of the loosening of management's mind and make adjustments accordingly. Do I have to wait until the playoffs to regret it?"

"Okay, I understand your idea." Brian nodded.

"But will the team's atmosphere change because of losing?" he asked worriedly.

Rivers shook his head confidently: "No, you have to remember that playing time is the best antidote. Any team problem can be resolved."

Bryant served as the head coach of the Nuggets from 13 to 15. He was able to come to the Clippers because of Wesley's invitation. He was not very willing at first, but Wesley's words made him determined.

"The reason you were fired by the Nuggets was not just because of the record, but because you didn't handle things well with your players. Doug is a master in this area. Since you are determined to continue in the coaching industry, I think the Clippers are the best place for you, and you don't need to leave Los Angeles."

Bryan's arrival did greatly enhance the Clippers' skills and tactics, and he immediately became Rivers' most reliable helper.

Although Rivers' adjustments were made by him, he did not expect that Doug would execute them so smoothly.

On the afternoon of November 11, Chen Fang knocked on the door of head coach Rivers' office.

"What's the matter?" Rivers took off his glasses while watching the video and asked.

"I want to win against the Cavaliers away from home," said Chen Fang.

"We all want to win." Rivers smiled.

"The losing streak must be stopped. We have a unified attitude in the locker room just now." Chen Fang came here with two tasks. One is to express the determination to win to the coaching staff on behalf of Jordan Jr., and the other is to express his position to Rivers personally.

"I'm glad to hear the news. We'll play the Cavaliers on the 18th, so we have plenty of time to study our opponent."

"Since November 11, when the Cavaliers beat the Mavericks, they have been on a winning streak. James is not someone you can easily mess with now," Rivers said to Chen Fang with a smile.

Chen Fang nodded: "I like people who are not easy to mess with."

The reason for such confidence is the two-way support from the new nutritionist and the Panshi team. Chen Fang has been adjusting for the past ten days. He has not felt sleepy or weak, and his body has gradually adapted to the intensity of competing every two days.

Combined with reasonable rest periods, Chen Fang seemed to have recovered to full strength.

"Go back and have a good rest. Keep your energy during this period. I heard that you are living with your girlfriend now?" Rivers asked.

"Yes, it's not a secret." Chen Fang replied. Some time ago, when the team had a party, Chen Fang declined the invitation with the excuse that his girlfriend was at home.

"Young man, be moderate." Rivers didn't say much. In this regard, he only needed to remind him.

It was Chen Fang's turn to smile bitterly. He was now a replica of AC Green, but he didn't want anyone to know.

Hoping that this misunderstanding would become a reality sooner, Chen Fang couldn't help but think divergently.

Seeing Chen Fang distracted, Rivers misunderstood. He quickly said, "When I was your age, it was also hard for me to listen to the coach. Go ahead, it's not a big deal."

"Thank you for your understanding, coach." Chen Fang said shamelessly, turned around and left. After leaving, Chen Fang drove to Panshi, where his training team was waiting for him.

"Come on, imitate James well, I'm going to beat him soon!" Chen Fang shouted excitedly as he entered the court.

Just kidding, playing against James is like Chinese New Year, so exciting.

Regarding James, Chen Fang took out all the information about Black Brain, and Wick specially found a strong baseball player to serve as a sparring partner.

"James' offense is often initiated through pick-and-roll in positional battles," Karl said first.

"So mismatches and strong drives are his main means of scoring. He doesn't have a strong desire to shoot from the outside, especially when there is defense."

"James plays a fuzzy style between holding the ball and without the ball. His basketball IQ is so high that he has formed this unique system."

"His unstoppable transition between offense and defense, as well as his distribution and support in positional battles, are all at the super giant level. We can only simulate some of the intensity here, but we cannot achieve the true James. Even the appearance is difficult to achieve," Karl confessed.

"But the current Cavaliers have a poor team dynamic and many injuries. Wade has never been able to integrate into the team and is floating outside the system." Karl smiled and said, "In my opinion, psychological problems may be the main reason."

"If you face him, you must keep your distance, call for help from your teammates, and don't get caught up with him easily, because his body will crush you."

Chen Fang nodded: "Of course I know, his greatest weapon is his body."

"Fast breaks, fouls, and layups after back-to-the-basket plays are all important ways for him to score. If we want to win, we just need to prevent other players from scoring. Of course, this shouldn't be our business. Your head coach will have a solution. After all, Tyronn Lue is his disciple."

"I've found a sparring partner with a similar physique so you can adapt to the physical intensity in advance." Wick said.

"Okay, that's better."

"Don't be happy, James is the best scorer in the league. You will understand after you finish this game." Karl said meaningfully.

"Maybe." Chen Fang stopped smiling.

He thought of Leonard. This was too fierce. The muscles in his body were harder than steel. Wherever he put his hands, they couldn't pass. His paddling was like hitting a bridge pier, which made his whole body numb.

The game against the Spurs was the first time in Chen Fang's life that he felt defeated and despaired.

Leonard didn't know if it was because of his MVP remarks, but the death was haunting him throughout the whole process.

His strength, reaction, and speed were all crushed. He couldn't dodge or fight back. As long as he was there, Chen Fang couldn't beat him at all.

Because of this game, the performance in the following games was affected.

The Clippers' losing streak originated from the Spurs, and there is nothing wrong with that.

The beating made Chen Fang suffer from insomnia for the first time. He couldn’t say that he cried while hugging his pillow, but he was not far from it.

The horror card lives up to its name.

So when Carl reminded him, Chen Fang's eyes instantly became clear.

For the next two days, Chen Fang stayed in Panshi, trying his best to prepare for his first match with James.

The first time he faced Leonard, he lost miserably, so Chen Fang put aside all his pride, started from scratch, and began to examine himself.

Can my skills and body really deal with the super giant?

But at the same time, he had a long-lost sense of anticipation, and he felt the joy of the NBA.

It's not just the halo of celebrities, but real battles between masters.

The essence of basketball is to start from the competitive perspective and savor the shock brought by every superstar.

Only in this way can I have the opportunity to become a super giant and realize that dream - a super giant executioner.

On the 17th, the Clippers arrived in Cleveland, Ohio, and were surrounded by curious reporters when they checked into the hotel.

Despite the reporters' crazy questions, no one on the team was willing to communicate. Before arriving, the team issued a gag order.

But if you don't say it, someone will.

After finishing his regular training, James accepted an interview.

"We're in good shape, and the Clippers are a good team, but it's clear they can't take the win away from Cleveland."

Then the reporter mentioned Chen Fang.

"He is a very talented player, but the rookie season is very difficult. I wish him good luck." James commented politely and didn't say much.

At the Clippers' first tactical meeting at the hotel, Rivers clearly told his players that the Cavaliers were not difficult to beat.

"They are in internal dispute. JR and Wade are fighting for the starting position. Both have supporters, but James' position is ambiguous. He can't make a choice to support. ③"

"Rose is old and doesn't have much to contribute. The Cavaliers' lineup is incomplete. They are unstable, suspicious of each other, and fighting on their own."

"Our strategy is to cut off the connection between James and others, allowing James to score but strangling the offense of others."

"On offense, their defense was full of holes. We just had to play well together and find open space. Their switching defense couldn't keep up with the pace."

"Guys, this is a good time to stop the losing streak. It's time to turn the tide."

At this moment, the outside world is optimistic about the Cavaliers' victory over the Clippers. Because of Chen Fang's performance and rest, CCTV made a temporary decision to withdraw the front-line commentary and return to the old way of the studio. After all, a group of people in the United States are just expenses if they open their eyes or close their eyes.

The only one who still insists on doing frontline commentary in the United States is TX Sports.

Duan Ran and Ke Fan came to Cleveland. Not to mention how hard the team was, they also had a hard time. They followed the Clippers across the United States, and they did not have enough manpower and resources, so they had to do many things on their own.

After running around the stadium to confirm the commentary position and communicating for the broadcast signal, the eight-person team was exhausted. After returning to the hotel, Duan Ran and Ke Fan lay on the bed, so tired that they didn't even want to talk.

After a long pause, Ke Fan finally had the energy to ask, "Is Chen Fang sure to play tomorrow?"

"Yes, it's confirmed. Now Chen Fang will play 2-3 games, then he may be rested. He will definitely not play in back-to-back games. This is a rule."

"Why is it like this?" Ke Fan sighed. Chen Fang's rest is not only a very painful thing for the fans, but also for them.

"Physical fitness, Chen Fang's physical fitness has always been his biggest weakness. In the past, even in high school and college, when the intervals between games were still passable, there would always be fluctuations, not to mention the NBA."

"Is it because of physical fitness that affected the performance?" Ke Fan asked out all the questions he had these days in one breath.

"I think it's probably true, but the good news is that the Clippers value him and tolerate this shortcoming."

"But this is not a big deal. If we continue like this, there will be more and more skepticism."

"It's temporary. Physical fitness can be compensated later, but talent is something that is innate. China is very lucky to have Chen Fang. From the current perspective, his development prospects are even greater than Yao's."

"That's true. For example, for tomorrow's game, I estimate that the number of viewers in China will reach a new high."

"Yeah, it's just like the match between Yao and Shark back then. I hope Chen Fang's performance will be better tomorrow."

"Will that happen?" Ke Fan struggled to get up and looked at Duan Ran in the bed next to him with wide eyes.

Duan Ran didn't dare to make any assertions about this, so he turned around and said, "Go to bed early, there will be a lot of things to do tomorrow."

The bedside lamp went out and Duan Ran prayed silently.

I don't ask for victory, but I just hope that we don't get beaten like last time against Xiaoka.

James is the biggest star among the current superstars. After Kobe, he has the largest domestic fan base and the most successful marketing.

As soon as Kobe retired, James's world became the world of China. Although there are James haters everywhere, there is not much room for James haters to survive in the mainstream arena.

Chen Fang VS James, in terms of fans and status, both are at a disadvantage.

Duan Ran is worried that as a Chinese, Chen Fang has to regain lost ground in the NBA and convert huge Chinese fans into his supporters. This is a huge project and the outcome cannot be decided by just one game.

But Duan Ran could read something from his understanding of Chen Fang. There was no word "fear" in Chen Fang's dictionary. Tomorrow's match was bound to be a fierce battle, and they had to fight with all their might.

Again, this was the fun. The anticipation almost made Duan Ran unable to sleep. He tossed and turned until the second half of the night before he finally fell into a drowsy sleep.

In his dream, he saw Chen Fang rush into the Cavaliers' restricted area in one step, jump high, and defend James from a distance. He couldn't help but shout with blood rushing to his head: "Dunk, death dunk!"

His excited voice echoed throughout the room. Ke Fan, who was frightened awake, grabbed the quilt to cover his chest and looked at Duan Ran in horror as he sat up like a zombie.

It turned out to be a dream!

"Teacher Duan is so dedicated that he gives explanations even in his dreams." Ke Fan said admiringly.

Forced to smile awkwardly, Duan Ran checked his phone and saw that it was already past six o'clock.

"Get up, it's time to work."

Over at the Clipper Hotel, Chen Fang also got up. After washing up, he said to himself in the mirror: "Do it!"

(End of this chapter)