Rekindling the dream of becoming a star

Chapter 304 Mountain Top
On October 16th, the NBA 18-19 regular season slowly began.

Earlier that day, ESPN, as usual, released its season predictions.

The guests invited to this episode are all long-time friends of ESPN, who have been involved in NBA commentary and interviews for a long time.

Mike Brin, ESPN's lead commentator.

Mark Jackson, a former NBA player and coach, is Brin's commentary partner.

To make the predictions appear more professional, Jeff Van Gundy and Byron Scott, who specialize in live commentary, were invited.

With the addition of ESPN analyst Doris Burke, the group consists of four men and one woman.

Half an hour into the program, the playoff prediction segment began.

Mike Brin asked again, "If we don't predict the quarterfinals, can we predict the semifinals in the East and West?"

Mark Jackson asked, "Is it the playoff semifinals or the regular season?"

"Let's start with the regular season; the playoffs are too far off."

His gaze fell on Scott, who already had a plan in mind. He replied, "There's almost no disagreement in the East: the Bucks, 76ers, Raptors, and Celtics. On paper, these four teams are stronger than the rest of the East."

"But in the West, things are more chaotic, and the chaos at the end of last season also reflects the fact that the West is relatively evenly matched."

"But there are a few teams that will undoubtedly be at the top."

"The Warriors and the Rockets, barring any unforeseen circumstances, remain the two best teams in the West."

"But the next two were quite predictable."

"The Trail Blazers, Thunder, Nuggets, Jazz, Lakers, all are possibilities."

“You’ve forgotten about one team!” Brin interrupted.

Scott nodded: "I know, of course! I know what you're trying to say."

"Clippers!"

"I'm not forgetful, I want to save the Clippers analysis for last."

"Whether it's the Trail Blazers' dynamic duo, the Thunder's two superstars, the Nuggets' inside-outside trio, or the combination of James and Paul, these are all impressive and their strength is something to look forward to."

"But none of these are as unpredictable as the Clippers."

"The Clippers' offseason trades signify a complete rebuild. They traded Griffin and acquired another rookie."

"The team has 15 players, including 4 first-year rookies and 4 second-year freshmen. And most importantly, these eight are the main rotation players. We can see this from the preseason games." As Scott analyzed, everyone else nodded in agreement.

"The Clippers also acquired four role players: Richon, Lou Williams, Beverley, and Harrell. They have all passed the league's tests and proven themselves capable of averaging 10 points or more per game."

“Zubac’s stats are getting better year by year. Centers develop slowly, but the Clippers can give him plenty of playing time at the 5 position.”

"Finally, let's talk about Chen Fang, a young man who has shown superstar performances in his rookie year. He is only 20 years old this year, but he is as mature as a player who has been playing in the NBA for ten years. He has already proven himself in the playoffs."

"In last year's playoffs, he was the only player who could put pressure on the Warriors, something that Harden and James couldn't do."

"Looking back now, it's hard to predict the fighting power that such a player could create when leading a youth team."

"We can say that young players are highly volatile; they can put on a brilliant performance, or they can inexplicably lose a game they should have won."

"It's hard for me to say whether the Clippers can stay in the Western Conference semifinals this season. It depends on Doug's coaching of the team and how much leadership Chen Fang has."

His long speech prompted everyone in the studio to have something to say.

Van Gundy first offered his opinion: "In my view, the Clippers' success isn't about whether Chen Fang can maintain his level, but whether the other players can reach their full potential."

"The Clippers underwent major surgery, replacing all the players with problems on both offense and defense, leaving only Lou Williams, who is the weakest defender on the team."

"Others prioritize defense over offense. In five preseason games, the Clippers had the highest defensive efficiency in the league, holding opponents to the 90s, which is incredible. Even if they did it with a lot of fouls, it means that the Clippers' defensive intensity is more than one level higher than last season."

"Does committing more fouls equate to good defense?" Brin objected.

"Of course not, but fouls have always been a reflection of attitude."

“We need to note that some of these players, even those from last season, are also increasing their foul counts. Take Zubac for example, he averaged 2.1 fouls per game last season, and in the five preseason games, he averaged 3.9 fouls per game.”

“Richon and Harrell, these interior players, also increased by two index points, which means that the Clippers coaching staff clearly asked the players to loosen their defense.”

As one of the league's top defensive masters, Van Gundy's words were unanimously recognized, so everyone put the rankings aside and began to discuss the benefits of doing so.

"A lot of rebounds, a lot of fast breaks, nobody wants to play a half-court game with the Clippers because it's not worth it!" Mark Jackson pointed out incisively.

"The Clippers have stockpiled a lot of guards and forwards, and their 'Death Lineup' can play two different styles, that's what makes them so terrifying." As a woman, Doris pays more attention to details.

She continued, "Even if we take the Warriors' effectiveness as an example, if the Clippers can achieve 70% of that, that would be a very considerable force in the regular season."

Brin felt there was enough time to discuss the Clippers, so he said, "Let's each give our own predictions for the Clippers' ranking."

“Fifth in the West,” Scott said after a moment’s hesitation.

“Sixth,” Mark Jackson followed.

"8th." Doris doesn't think the Clippers can maintain that intensity throughout the long regular season.

Everyone looked at Van Gundy, who frowned and thought for a moment: "I think the Clippers will finish third or fourth. They have great defensive intensity and resilience, which can be very effective in the regular season."

No one objected to this, and the conversation quickly moved on to the next microphone.

Seeing that the Clippers weren't being discussed, Rivers turned off the TV and looked at the entire coaching staff.

“Great talk, it fits my stereotypes about TV shows.”

After a few seconds of pause, Rivers shook his head with a smile: "It's all nonsense."

His words elicited chuckles from the crowd.

Rivers stood up: "This season is important not only for the players, but also for the coaching staff. We know this team best, so we are very confident that we can achieve unimaginable results this season."

"But a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. This is an old saying from Chen Fang's hometown, and I think it's very true. Let's prepare for it one by one."

"Our first opponent, the opening game, is the Denver Nuggets."

※※※

Many journalists in Los Angeles have noticed something very interesting.

That's the Clippers' public relations and media department. They've drastically reduced media leaks. Apart from a handful of reporters who travel with the team, you'll hardly hear anything from coaches, officials, or players.

The entire Clippers team fell into a self-imposed isolation, a silence that was somewhat eerie.

But this can't go on forever. Rivers and Chen Fang will be present at the Clippers' opening game press conference on the 17th.

This press conference attracted more than 50 journalists, nearly 20 of whom were from China.

The huge press conference hall was bustling with people, whispering among themselves and expressing their long-standing feelings of farewell.

Yes, reporters also meet through competitions. They come from all over the country, and while they meet frequently for half the year, they also rarely see each other for the other half.

When the Clippers' press officer appeared, the entire arena gradually quieted down.

Chen Fang followed Rivers and appeared before everyone. He was dressed casually today, and after gaining muscle, he looked even more presentable in his clothes, a perfect clothes hanger.

These press conferences have a strict question-asking order, with the free question-and-answer session only taking place in the final stage.

First, the league reporters asked three questions about the formula.

I. Season Goals;
II. Player Objectives;
III. Major Competitors.

The first question was answered by the coach, Rivers, who gave a evasive answer: "Making the playoffs is our goal, and we hope to gain home-court advantage, so we will do everything we can to achieve that."

The second one can only be Chen Fanglai.

"I think I can make a run at the All-Star Game, the best event in the league, but that depends on the team's record."

His answer sparked follow-up questions, with a league reporter asking, "What kind of record would satisfy you?"

"The mountaintop!" Chen Fang's words caused an uproar throughout the venue.

Chen Fang remained expressionless in the face of the reporter's surprise. He calmly continued, "The wind is strong and cold at the top of the mountain, but I was prepared this time."

The third question seemed less important; every reporter who received the question began to delve deeper into the topic.

But Chen Fang kept confirming until an ESPN reporter asked, "Who do you think the Clippers' main rivals are this season, and who are your rivals?" "The Warriors will always be number one. I can't wait for our first game, which is on November 12th, at our home court."

"As for the other teams, each one deserves respect and seriousness, but the team I most want to play against is the Warriors."

“My opponents, obviously, are everyone who plays against me.”

After expressing his stance, the press conference moved to the final Q&A session. Looking at the numerous raised arms, Chen Fang made a quick decision and called on an old friend.

Meng Chao perked up, stood up to take the microphone, took a deep breath, and asked, "The Clippers made a lot of trades this summer, and you yourself have also built up muscle. I'd like to know, with frequent rests this season, will you be able to reach the 58 games required for each player to earn their respective honors?"

"Are you asking about being selected for the All-NBA First, Second, or Third Team?" Chen Fang asked with a smile.

"Yes!" Meng Chao realized he was still flustered, and his words were not concise and clear.

"Of course, this is also my personal goal. I have adapted to the league, and this season I will play no less than 60 games, or even more."

"So what are your expectations for yourself?" Meng Chao asked boldly.

"A moment!" Chen Fang's answer caused another uproar, and everyone suddenly realized that the Chinese people had become very unfamiliar.

Instead of being reserved and humble, he was extremely confident.

After the press conference, Chen Fang chatted with Rivers on the road.

“I’m also surprised that you would express your opinion like this.” Rivers did feel the pressure from Chen Fang; today, he was showing his true colors.

“I can’t keep a low profile. I’ve already asked for so much, and now it’s time for me to show my value.” Chen Fang’s answer also stunned Rivers.

"Behind power lies a road of no return. If you ask for something, you must give something in return. Otherwise, if you ask again next time, no one will believe you."

“I know how much pressure this will bring, but so what? I need the pressure. This season, I will let everyone know that I am one of the best players in the league.”

"And eventually, I will become the best one."

When Chen Fang got home, he saw Sun Lexian, whom he hadn't seen for a long time.

"Feeling bored lately?" Chen Fang asked with a smile.

“Yes, Black Brain is on the right track now, and I don’t need to put in too much effort anymore,” Sun Lexian said.

"Very good, then I'll arrange something for you."

"what?"

"Go become a coach, start by becoming a video analyst."

Sun Lexian frowned and first expressed his attitude: "I don't object to what you ask me to do, but I want to know, what are your ultimate expectations of me?"

This stumped Chen Fang. To be honest, he had always felt that Sun Lexian was useful, and was the most helpful person he had met since his rebirth.

"Come here!" Chen Fang beckoned, and the two sat down in the backyard.

"Azure will become the third largest league market in China." Chen Fang's first words puzzled and surprised Sun Lexian.

“What does this have to do with me?” he asked.

"Don't rush, I need to explain clearly."

"First of all, Azure will become the highest level league among the general public, and it will be a tiered system with five age groups: society, university, high school, junior high school, and primary school."

"This league can effectively absorb a lot of fresh blood from youth training and CUBA draft picks who failed, and allow them to shine and realize their life's value in the year-round league."

"We will become the best soil for nurturing the rise of Chinese basketball, and we will be the carrier for this."

"So?" Sun Lexin was surprised, but he was someone who was very focused on getting started, and he was single-mindedly trying to figure out what he was going to do.

"But even so, Azure still needs its own portal!"

"Portal?" Sun Lexian read it aloud, then a flash of inspiration struck him, and he stood up abruptly.

"Old Chen, what do you mean?"

"Yes!" Seeing Sun Lexian's strong reaction, Chen Fang knew he had guessed it.

"First the NBL, then the CBA, we need to have our own top teams."

"This process may take ten years, or maybe five. Wang Zhen has already inquired about acquiring the NBL, and there should be some progress within a year."

"So?" Sun Lexian pointed to his nose, feeling incredulous.

"You're overthinking it. I'm not asking you to be the head coach, that's a matter for later. Right now, my primary need is for you to be the general manager, in charge of overall coordination. I need you to understand the operations of professional and semi-professional businesses in the United States within two years. You don't need to be an expert, but you can't be fooled by professionals."

"This is our bridgehead for the blue sky project, and it will serve as a window to showcase the entire blue sky enterprise."

"I definitely don't have time, I can only rely on you!" Chen Fang stood up and patted Sun Lexian, saying from the bottom of his heart, "We met, got to know each other, and became friends because of basketball. Shouldn't we climb to the top together in the direction of our shared interests?"

After recovering, Sun Lexian gave Chen Fang a deep look.

"Just like you said at today's press conference, you're going to the mountaintop!"

"Yes, whether it's for me personally or for my career, I want to experience the feeling of being at the top of the mountain."

“I understand. So where am I going next?” Sun Lexian asked.

“Go to USC, that’s my territory. Coach Andy needs you. You can be the team manager and analyst there.”

"Within a year, I will arrange for you to join the Clippers' Development League, where you will still have multiple roles."

"I'm asking for a raise!" Sun Lexian felt a headache coming on just thinking about it.

"Get lost. Your shares have exceeded your rights, and you also own shares in this top club."

Sun Lexian's eyes lit up, and he readily extended his hand: "It's a deal!"

With something on his mind, Sun Lexian didn't linger but immediately said goodbye. He felt there wasn't enough time; so much had happened in just two short years.

After seeing him off, Chen Fang received a call from Kobe.

"Looks like you're going to make a big splash this season," Kobe's voice boomed.

"Yes, but please don't be scared by me."

"Ha, what are you trying to say?" Kobe retorted.

"What I mean is, if I reach the summit before February, please come and cheer me on for that event."

"Absolutely no problem, I'd love to." Kobe agreed immediately.

"You called just to ask this?" It was Chen Fang's turn to ask.

"No, I just want to feel your determination."

"now what?"

"Los Angeles has turned into the African savanna, and there's an ambitious lion who wants to become the Lion King!"

"Thank you for your description, but I am Chinese, and we Chinese people prefer tigers!"

"Wow, come on, describe the feeling of déjà vu." Kobe was in a good mood, and he actually asked enthusiastically.

"Tigers patrol their territory, and their scent can make wolves tremble and bears cower. When a tiger roars, the leaves in the entire forest are shaken off, and all the animals flee in panic. In my heart, this is what I pursue."

"Next, I will achieve it one game at a time."

"It's a beautiful description, but I have a message for you." Kobe's voice lowered.

"Whether you win or lose, you must make your opponent fear you."

"The layers deepen one by one. This alliance is not lacking in brave individuals. Be prepared for tough battles."

"Yes, it's tomorrow."

"Good luck!"

"Thank you, wish me luck!" Chen Fang hung up the phone. Back in Laoshan, he had already thought about everything he was facing now.

He wasn't sure if the world would remain the same as it had been in his previous life in the next few years, so he had to hurry.

"Wish me luck!" Chen Fang silently said to himself.

(End of this chapter)