Rekindling the dream of becoming a star

Chapter 344 The Motherland's Waiting

There are many interesting anecdotes about the Lakers vs. Clippers game, both before and after the match.

There are three that are the most interesting.

The first one is naturally the famous scene of James kneeling down, which surprised some people and made others indifferent.

Some enthusiasts compiled clips of James kneeling in the league over the past 15 years, totaling more than 20 times, to prove that this was not an isolated incident.

This seems to downplay the fact that James was beaten to his knees by Chen Wang, but it has inadvertently enhanced James's image as a coward.

Someone posted a video of LeBron James limping off the court to show everyone that he had done his best, but was met with a ruthless denial.

“He does this every time he loses a game. When asked, he always mentions his groin, but he can never produce an officially certified medical test report.”

Some people added fuel to the fire: "You're all wrong. James is really injured. The defeat has caused him tremendous mental pain, to the point that he can hardly control his limbs."

These comments could only circulate in the comments section and were difficult for more people to discover, but the next day, the Los Angeles Daily News' NBA columnist Broderick Turner's report hit James hard in the face.

Title: The Emperor's New Clothes

I know countless people say LeBron James is a great player, but when I ask them what impresses them most about him, they stumble.

But if you ask Kobe's fans the same question, they'll say 81 points, McGrady's fans will say the 13-point miracle, and Curry's fans will say the logo three-pointer.

It seems that every superstar has their own label, so when we look back, I randomly look for passersby and ask them what their first impression of LeBron James was, and the answers I get are all kinds of strange.

Grouping together, walking, nomadic lifestyle, spreading hands, kneeling, title page, vampire, hypocrite, magical groin, etc.

It's hard to find another superstar with so many labels. LeBron James provides us with a lot to talk about. He always does things that we don't expect, things that are almost impossible to see in other superstars.

Such a strange person was actually the emperor.

The emperor of basketball!

He even began to believe that he could be compared to Jordan and that one day surpass him to become the greatest of all time.

Wow, what a magnificent ambition, Your Majesty! Please accept my adoration. Your confidence is truly unmatched in the League!
This is a scathing satirical article, and at the end, Broderick Turner openly mocks James.

This article was like pouring water into hot oil; it immediately caused an uproar.

James' media team immediately retaliated, with his go-to reporters Dave and Brian posting twelve tweets in a row to refute the claims, especially citing the Cavaliers' comeback against the Warriors in 16 when they had won 73 games, to prove James' greatness.

Broderick Turner retorted sarcastically, "Come on, how dare you mention the worst Finals in history?"

"Treating the 16 finals as an 800-meter race, and then blowing off your opponent's feet with a whistle after running 300 meters, and then racing him again, that would be quite something."

"Do I need to use Frye's exact words from the Cavaliers at the time to expose this?"

"When we find that our defensive scale can be like this, then okay, we can destroy all of the Warriors' offense without being punished."

"Green is the Warriors' offensive and defensive linchpin, so the provocateurs are protected while the counter-provocateurs are suspended. We are very familiar with this scenario, because Chen Wang was the most vivid example not long ago."

"The Warriors were leading 3-1 at the time, and Green's suspension made Game 5 the Cavaliers' biggest hope for a comeback. As it turned out, that was indeed the case!"

"It's worth noting that before Bogut's injury, James averaged less than 25 points per game in the first three games, but after Bogut's injury, James scored 41 points in Game 5, 41 points in Game 6, and 27 points in Game 7."

"And how did Bogut get injured? Wasn't it James's teammate Smith's fault? And this isn't the first time. Throughout the series, the Cavaliers' defensive intensity was so bad that the Warriors had as many as nine players injured."

"And why didn't James commit a foul on Curry for his killer moves? Do I need to show you some GIFs to leave you speechless?"

"Even without all that, in the most crucial Game 7, in the most tense moment, it wasn't James who stepped up, but Irving. Throughout the series, Irving did all the hard-hitting plays. As for James, please, kind people, help me edit some of those clips. I really want to see James' hard-hitting plays. It's been 15 years, and I'm sorry I haven't had the chance to see them."

"The viral video online shows LeBron James sprinting 18 meters in 2.7 seconds to complete a 'block of the century' at 3.71 meters. To be honest, it was a great defensive play. A chase-down block is the only label that LeBron James can be proud of."

"Finally, let me tell you something that few people know: throughout the series, Curry was so seriously injured that he had to play with painkillers, but he never said anything about it, he just congratulated the Cavaliers."

"So, do you want me to look up what LeBron James said after losing the Finals? Do you want me to summarize how many excuses he made?"

"I admire Curry very much. He's a real man. He plays with injuries but never mentions it. There's not even a news report about him. He's the toughest of tough guys."

Broderick Turner's counterattack was so fierce that Dave and Brian immediately closed their Twitter comment sections. It seems that birds of a feather flock together, and avoiding the situation is the core threshold for joining James' team.

Discussions about James continue to spread like wildfire, and the status of Chen Wang is also a hot topic.

"I really like Chen Wang's style, not just his playing style, but his personal charm is even more captivating. If he were black, there would be no doubt that the league would recognize him as the next Jordan."

“If we look at the trajectory of rookie Jordan, you will find that it is strikingly similar to Chen Wang’s rookie career.”

"A formidable rookie career, terrifying playoff stats, and the same unruly spirit, daring to challenge the league's top stars at the time."

"King Chen's ability to keep his word is extremely charismatic, as if he has a natural sense of judgment. When faced with provocation from enemies, he never runs away and dares to confront them head-on. Even the league's top players like Curry and James will not back down."

These are the reactions of North American fans, but in Asia, the evaluation of Chen Wang seems to be more sentimental than objective.

"Chen Wang is a hero of the yellow-skinned race. In the competitive field of basketball, and in the long history of the NBA, there has never been a yellow-skinned forward or guard. He not only appeared, but also became one of the best in the league."

"Chen Wang's success also proves that we Asians do not have a genetic disadvantage in competition, and we can defeat our opponents in any sport."

"Whether it's basketball or football," a Japanese fan tweeted.

Compared to Japanese fans' obsession with genetics, South Korean fans prefer to trace their roots.

"Shandong has always been the homeland of Goryeo. Prince Chen has Korean blood flowing through his veins. From his appearance and personality, it is clear that he is a pure Korean!"

In China, Chen Fang's influence has reached a level that other sports stars cannot reach. In terms of appearance, Chen Fang has regular features, distinct angles, and the appearance of a sunny boy.

In terms of ability, he achieved honors that Yao Ming could not accomplish in less than two years.

In terms of financial resources, Chen Wang, who was still a high school student, had already started to make money in the investment field. His wealth was estimated to be in the hundreds of millions, and the currency was US dollars.

In terms of vision, the Blue Ocean Foundation has genuinely provided tremendous help to the growth of Chinese basketball.

Almost perfect, and only 20 years old, all these factors combined give people a very unreal feeling, as if this is the protagonist who stepped out of a wish-fulfillment novel.

It can be said that Chen Wang's commercial value and personal influence are increasing day by day, and after breaking the record with 70 points, he has reached his peak.

Countless people want to get in touch with Chen Wang. Even if you are just his former classmate, it is very valuable. Now, as long as you associate with Chen Wang, you will definitely gain traffic.

With the rise of short videos, several of Chen Fang's classmates have opened accounts to share their experiences at Chenwang High School. After just a few live streams, they have gained tens of thousands of followers.

This is the value of King Chen.

Chen Fang, however, did not have such awareness. He frowned and reviewed the game with the coaches in the coaching staff hall.

"In fact, when the opponent has a big man who can attack, pass, and quickly retreat to defense, it will greatly suppress this tactic," Chen Fang admitted.

"Davis's mentality was ruined by James, and Walton was also unable to make the right tactical arrangements because of James, but other teams wouldn't."

"As long as I have a tall, agile player around 210cm, I will be suppressed in the mid lane."

Chen Fang's words echoed in the hall, and everyone fell into deep thought. After a moment of consideration, Mazura gave her reply.

"Yes, we need more pieces in our puzzle. We need a true three-point shooter on the wings and in the corners to force the opponent to spread out their lineup. We also need a stretch big man to provide support for passing and playmaking."

"Currently, there is no one on the team who can fill that role. Jaren is more suitable as a defensive anchor. Dillon and Jrue Holiday's three-point shooting is not very good. They don't have the strong three-point threat of Klay Thompson or Ray Allen."

“Bridges has potential, but not yet, as does Di Vincenzo. Brunson’s style, strictly speaking, is different from our tactics.”

Mazura's words sparked further whispers among the crowd, and Rivers tapped the table. "Nothing is perfect at any time, otherwise what would be the point of having leaders? No one can be perfect. What we need to do is to put our theories into practice step by step and select the most suitable players for us within the league."

"Year after year, until one day, you achieve the ultimate."

Chen Fang understood the head coach's words; he was leaving room for maneuver to avoid negative consequences that could impact him, the team's core leader, after a defeat.

So he shook his head: "As long as a person is determined, no matter how great the difficulty, it can be overcome."

There is a Chinese saying: "Overcome all difficulties to achieve victory."

"This is also my motto. I am not afraid of difficulties, nor am I afraid of challenges. I am willing to fall on the road of charging forward rather than stay at home and comfort myself."

"I just hope that everyone can come up with more solutions and select players who are more suitable for the task to carry it out."

Suddenly there was a knock on the door, and everyone fell silent. The door was pushed open, and it was Lawrence.

He saw Prince Chen, was taken aback at first, and then said to everyone, "Let me report what just happened."

"Walton has been fired, and Magic Johnson has also announced his resignation from the position of president."

Chen Fang remained silent. That's just how fate is; what's meant to happen will happen.

Luke Walton's departure was supposed to happen on April 13, but on April 10, Magic Johnson, the president of basketball operations, suddenly resigned.

Yesterday's Lakers' crushing defeat accelerated this process, leading to the simultaneous departure of both players.

“Looks like Luke’s taken the blame.” Rivers wasn’t surprised; in his view, it was only a matter of time.

“Yes.” Lawrence gave Rivers a deep look and continued, “In fact, from what I’ve heard on the inside, Jeanie is asking the main person in charge about the Lakers’ poor record this season.”

"Pelinka chose to betray Magic Johnson. In a secret meeting, he told Jeanie that Magic Johnson's autocratic behavior and failure to manage his relationship with James led to the team's poor record in the early part of the season."

"And the Lakers' performance at the end of the season proved him right. Jeanie believes she has to make a choice between Magic Johnson and LeBron James."

"So the magician angrily threatened to resign, and Jenny agreed."

"As for Walton, frankly, he was just a dispensable victim in this Lakers infighting. Perhaps his resume as the Lakers' head coach will keep him out of the league for a long time. He did a terrible job."

Lawrence's words also made the coaches present look uneasy. It is a big loss for a coach to lack authority.

"So, they became the scapegoats, while the real bastards got away scot-free?" Chen Fang suddenly laughed.

“You could say that!” Lawrence replied.

"As far as I remember, it seems like James was invited by Magic Johnson."

"Yes." Everyone knows about this.

“Okay, there’s an old Chinese saying, ‘Inviting a wolf into the house,’ which is something like this!” After explaining the allegory, Chen Fang said to Lawrence with a half-smile, “Luckily it wasn’t the Clippers, or you would be out of a job, buddy.”

Lawrence laughed awkwardly. Back in 17, the Clippers had already considered recruiting James.

"The media department is producing a documentary this afternoon, and we need your participation," Lawrence changed the subject.

"Okay, I get it now."

Documentary production is something every team in the league does, and it's also a major annual event for the media department.

This is like a historian in Chinese history, faithfully recording the changes and progress of the team in the current season, as well as the words and deeds of all kinds of people.

Chen Fang participated many times, and as the results and goals changed, the content shifted from recording daily life to the championship-chasing mode.

At 2 p.m., Clippers media officer Ellie Bell appeared in front of Chen Fang.

"Hi, how are you doing?" Chen Fang greeted Ellie.

“Great, with you around, our media relations department is packed with work.” Ellie is a single mother in her thirties, which is very common in the United States and is almost a standard for professional women.

She graduated from Stanford with a degree in social sciences and is a key member of the media department. This documentary is also a central theme in her work.

Amused by Ellie, Chen Fang burst into laughter. He said, "This is what makes life interesting. If all the opponents in the regular season were weak, I wouldn't even bother to train."

“Yes, that’s a good analogy,” Ellie smiled.

During their conversation, a cameraman was recording the entire event. Both of them were wearing microphones and started off in a very relaxed manner.

"How are you feeling this season?" Ellie began by asking.

As they walked, the two said, "Very good, the team's series of actions are all excellent."

"The Clippers didn't make any trades at the trade deadline. Is this because the team is satisfied with its current roster?"

“Yes, I have always believed that unity is more important than anything else,” Chen Fang replied solemnly.

Arriving at a rest area, which was also carefully designed, the two sat down, and staff quickly set up lighting, noise reduction, and sound recording to create an open interview area.

Continuing the previous topic, Chen Fang said, "If a player has technical problems, as long as they can overcome them, then they should overcome them, rather than being traded."

"We are on the road to reconstruction, and what we need when we begin this process is patience and respect."

"Uniting everyone's spirits, setting a collective goal, and working towards that goal is far more effective than simply assembling a few superstars."

Ellie nodded. She felt it was necessary to delve deeper into this point, so she asked, "Currently, the league is all about the Big Three and dual-core strategies. Why don't you have any plans or interest in that?"

"Were any candidates recruited?"

"First of all, I recruited Dillon. I greatly admire his will to compete and his thirst for battle."

“I don’t dislike the Big Three, provided that they are integrated into the group and there is a clear leader, rather than being bound together by brotherhood, which is obviously not solid.”

"Many people in the league don't realize this, which is a big misconception. They've abandoned the league's previous style, which I think is wrong."

"It's hard for a dynasty to emerge now because the prerequisite for a dynasty is that the whole team is closely united around one person and works towards the same goal, instead of each having their own agenda and falling apart when faced with setbacks."

Ellie felt that every sentence mentioned LeBron James, but not James, and she pretended to be confused, smiling.

The interview lasted half an hour, covering the team, management, and various aspects of the game. Finally, Ellie asked the most crucial question.

"The playoffs are just around the corner, how are our preparations?"

"There is no such thing as foolproof preparation, only the determination to overcome all difficulties."

The two shook hands, signifying the end of the interview.

"I hope this documentary can be released." Ellie's last words made Chen Fang feel a great sense of responsibility.

If it doesn't succeed, the documentary will be added to the next season and will not be released until the team makes history.

This is why when a team wins a championship, you'll soon find a documentary about it, and the content can span several years.

"Yes, believe me!" Chen Fang replied.

This is the Clippers' wait, and it is also the motherland's wait.

Chen Fang understands this, which is why he works so hard. No matter what, he wants to forge his own path to the pinnacle of life.

(End of this chapter)