NBA: Miracle Workers

Chapter 680 "The Highest Mountain" and "The Longest River" (Daily Chapter)

Wednesday, September 2009, 9, will be the start of the three-day Hall of Fame event. Old Deng and others are regaining attention, and some basketball critics are also starting to do their old jobs in a new way.

ESPN's First Take program is broadcast on time every day at 10: Eastern Time from Monday to Friday. There has been no NBA activity recently, and the discussion in the past few days was more about baseball.

However, with Michael Jordan gaining attention again, Skip Bayless has become active again. The host of the show that day was replaced by Dana Jacobson, and they were going to discuss basketball again.
Stephen A. Smith, who was a guest on the show again, started shaking his head when he saw today's topic, "Who is better, Michael Jordan or Lee?" The relevant content has been out of date for many years.

In the studio, Skip Bayliss, who has short blond hair, suffered a relapse of amnesia. Michael Jordan became the GOAT in his mouth again. He commented on the Hall of Fame activities with excitement:

"Now, Michael Jordan has a new name - Hall of Fame!"

"His basketball skills are perfect. Even now in the NBA, there is still no one who can play like Michael Jordan."

"When we think back to the most glorious period of the NBA, we always think of this name. No matter what achievements the players made later, they could not match the influence of Michael Jordan."

The director also thoughtfully reviewed the important honors of Michael Dunk's career for the fans in front of the TV:

5x NBA championship;
5×NBA Finals FMVP;

5×NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP);
14×NBA All-Star, 3×AMVP;

1× Best Defensive Player (DPOY), 10× Scoring Champion, 10× All-NBA First Team, 9× NBA All-Defensive First Team, 2× Olympic Gold Medalist.

Such an honor to be inducted into the Hall of Fame is certainly well-deserved. Looking at the "victims" of the same period, Michael won by a large margin in terms of dunk trophies, while David Robinson and John Stockton all relied on gold medals and "scraps".

Skip Bayless, who was touting Michael Dunk, was quick to mention his 32292 points in the regular season and 5987 points in the playoffs, but when it came to Excel, Stephen A. Smith perked up:
"Man, Michael Jordan is great, but he's not God!"

"I don't want to talk about the statistics, because in my opinion, Lee is still a long way from retiring. In a few years, he will be able to completely dominate the accumulation of statistics."

"13 seasons, 30304 points! Li did not celebrate after reaching 3 points, because his goal was to reach 4 points."

"As for playoff points, 6993 points, Lee had surpassed Michael Jordan as early as last season, but he was only 30 years old at the time and also did not celebrate."

Skip Bayliss's eyes twitched slightly. He shouldn't have mentioned these numbers. In terms of Excellence, Li You had basically no rivals. However, Stephen A. Smith seized the opportunity to brag:

"You guys always hype up past players, but I remember when we talked about 4 points, no one believed it, and as for 1 points in the playoffs, it was hailed as something that couldn't happen."

"But in just a few years, we will witness a moment like this when Lee will eventually surpass everyone. He is constantly creating miracles. He is a true legend!"

"."

In recent years, most fans have been attracted by the gimmick of eight consecutive championships. In addition, Li You rarely appears on TV for interviews and does not deliberately promote Excel, so data accumulation has been ignored by many people.

Although the NBA reminds fans from time to time, the commentators did not deliberately guide them, and in the end everyone focused on the eight consecutive championships and gossip. This time, taking advantage of the Hall of Fame opportunity, ESPN once again summarized Li You's achievements.

Fans in front of the TV soon saw the important honors that Li You had achieved:
11x NBA championship;
11×NBA Finals FMVP;

7×NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP);
12×NBA All-Star, 3×AMVP;

9× scoring champion, 12× first team best, 9× NBA best defensive first team, 5× assist champion, 6× steal champion.

Comparing the two, although Li You does not have an Olympic gold medal, his number of championships is outrageous, tying with Bill Russell, and he is truly the active King of the Rings.

In the regular season scoring list, the 32-year-old Li You ranks fifth, and there is a high probability that he will surpass Wilt Chamberlain and Michael Jordan next season.

On the playoff scoring list, Li You, who is about to break 7000 points, is already far ahead. He even has a chance to chase 1 points, an achievement that is said to be something that no one will achieve in another 50 years.

"Don't forget that Lee also experienced a shortened season. After he joined the Knicks, his worst record was 99 wins in the 00-60 season."

“李已经为纽约出战1018场常规赛，212场季后赛，他的胜率超过8成，在季后赛中更是有8次完成16:0！”

"We've had two 73 wins and one 72 wins. Even in a century, no one will be able to surpass Lee now. Michael Jordan is good, but Lee has completely changed the sport."

"."

Skip Bayliss hadn't said anything yet, but Stephen A. Smith started to cry. The host Dana Jacobson was stunned. Was he moved to tears?

"Dude, you might need to calm yourself down."

Skip Bayliss couldn't hold back after hearing this dry sentence. He even wanted to stand up and yell, "How much have you been charged?", but Stephen A. Smith was immersed in his emotions:
"I just think about what New York fans will do after Lee leaves basketball. Ladies and gentlemen, this has been the most wonderful 13 years I've ever experienced! I can't imagine what the team will look like after Lee retires."

"."

Li You retires? Skip Bayliss thinks most fans of the teams will celebrate wildly. It's dawn!

He even felt that many people were looking forward to beating the Knicks, and revenge would begin with retirement.

Dana Jacobson shook her long black hair. The female host didn't expect Stephen A. Smith to move her to tears. She was stunned for a while before she took over the conversation again:

"There is no doubt that both of them are great players. In terms of basketball, I even felt that Lee had nothing to pursue. He had achieved almost everything that could be achieved."

"Michael Jordan has left many fans with regrets to this day. Many people cannot forget the 98 Eastern Conference Finals."

"Outside of basketball, who do you think has had a bigger impact?"

As long as he wasn't talking about Excel, Skip Bayless was calm again. When talking about influence, he immediately talked about the development of the league and the hook:
"Michael Jordan introduced the NBA and the hook to the world. There is no doubt that his influence surpasses all other players. He is a pioneer in the commercialization of players."

Hearing his partner talking about the business elements, Stephen A. Smith shrugged his shoulders and said without showing any weakness:
"Lee has received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and the Mamba Mentality he pioneered has inspired countless players!"

"."

Skip Bayliss almost couldn't catch his breath and looked as if to say "Are you serious?" If he remembered correctly, "Mamba" was a term used by Li You to tease his opponents.

Stephen A. Smith didn't care about that. He had an excited look on his dark face and spoke confidently about the spiritual attributes, as if he had personally witnessed Li You's "hard times":
"Look at the league now, countless players are proud to be called 'Mamba'!"

"I saw more than just these achievements. Li had full attendance for seven seasons and was in the 7 club for eight consecutive seasons. It took more than ten years of hard training to achieve this success."

"When Lee retires, he will be the tallest mountain and the longest river!"

"."

In the end, Skip Bayliss was completely "defeated" in this episode. Thinking that Li You still had seven years left, he couldn't help but sympathize with the young player.

Even if Li You declines to the level of Michael Jordan, many young people will most likely not be able to defeat Old Deng!

Thursday, September 9th, after a day of fermentation, yesterday's First Take program traffic exploded, and ESPN's video clips on YouTube received huge feedback.

Some fans of the online entertainment industry exclaimed that Li You's accumulated data was outrageous. Before they knew it, he had already scored 3 points, and it seemed like it was only a matter of time before he surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

Many fans of Eastern Conference teams were once again upset. A playoff score of 1 points? In the last years of his career, Li You still wants to win? This is terrible news!

Springfield welcomed a large number of people from the basketball world that day, and the Hall of Fame ceremony will be officially held at 18:30 tomorrow.

As the protagonist, Michael Jordan naturally had to come here in advance. He had to share his glorious moment with his family, including his mother, children, and new girlfriend. He also had to pay for and take care of his other friends.

The Hall of Fame is open from Tuesday to Sunday and is closed on Monday. The arrival of Michael Dunk attracted many people to join in the fun, and the venue welcomed a wave of people far exceeding the previous ones.

In the afternoon, sports reporters gathered in the Memorial Hall, and this "spherical" venue became completely lively. When the four people appeared in front of the media together, there was constant cheering.

78-year-old Jerry Sloan missed today's event. After so many years, the old man still can't get over it. Being beaten by a rookie with the biggest score difference in the finals was an experience that was simply a nightmare.

David Robinson, dressed in a gray suit, kept in good shape, but he didn't smile much in front of the reporters. The same was true for Stockton, who was dressed in a black suit next to him, and his smile seemed a little forced.

Lutheran University's female coach C-Vivian Stringer was in a good mood. She talked cordially with everyone and even showed off her shooting skills despite her age, which made the atmosphere much better.

"I was a little resistant to the Hall of Fame before. You know, entering here means that my career is completely over. I didn't expect this day to come in the past!"

Michael Jordan, wearing a black striped suit, smiled brightly. When talking about his current feelings, he even joked about his past self.

"Who do you want to thank the most? Without a doubt, Dean Smith. Without him, you wouldn't have the chance to see Michael Jordan's game!"

Once again thanking his college coach, Michael Dunk, like in the past, was very proud of his time at North Carolina. When he heard someone questioning his data accumulation, he directly sent his blessing:
"4 points! I believe Li can do this. Maybe some people will say that in a few years, his physical condition will begin to decline, but I never think so."

"Basketball is evolving, and modern medicine can help players better than in the past. I wouldn't be surprised if Lee is still competitive at 38."

When the TNT reporter thought about how Lee Yoo was still "beating" the Eastern Conference at the end of his career, he immediately asked a question that many fans were concerned about:

"Michael, which youngsters do you think are more promising now? Which youngster do you think is more likely to break Lee's dominance?"

No one is discussing "who is the next Michael Jordan". Now everyone is more concerned about who can win the championship in the next few years. Upon hearing this question, Michael Dunk laughed and did not give a clear answer. Instead, he smiled and said meaningfully:
"I don't know. I'm not God! In my opinion, it depends on Lee's condition. The Knicks have won 69 games for two consecutive years. I don't see any downward trend."

"Take a look at the age structure of New York City, and perhaps you will have the answer in your mind."

Without mentioning any young players, anyone can hear that McDunk is not optimistic about young people. This is also the view of basketball commentators looking forward to the new season. The championship is in the Eastern Conference, and only the Cavaliers have a greater chance.

When Michael met his two old rivals, he laughed and joked again:
"Seeing them makes me want to put on the jersey again. I'm ready!"

After a simple hug, Stockton smiled again. After expressing his gratitude, the Jazz legend was also asked about the data accumulation:

"John, do you think Lee has a chance of breaking your assist record?"

The ESPN reporter is obviously making trouble on purpose. Li You has only 9753 assists so far, which is a long way from the record of 1. Even if he plays for a few more years, it is almost impossible for him to surpass this data.

"Everything is possible. Maybe Lee will transform at the end of his career. He has the ability to do this."

Unwilling to talk more about Li You, Stockton simply responded with a smile that became more forced.

As for why no one asked about the steals data, it is because after the end of last season, Li You's steals data has reached 2420, surpassing the first place on the list with 3265. It seems that it is only a matter of time.

Li You topped the list of playoff steals last year, and currently has 453 times. His record will continue to expand in the future. The second place is Scottie Pippen with 395 times.
The Jazz legend still has the gimmick of accumulating data, but David Robinson is a little awkward compared to the two of them. It's not that he is not good enough to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, but his achievements are just a little bit lacking.

During the interview, although the black face was smiling constantly, when talking about his feelings, David Robinson could only express his humble attitude:
"I just want to thank everyone for everything and for the support and help I've received."

The afternoon event was almost over when John Doleva, president and CEO of the Basketball Hall of Fame, appeared in front of everyone with a bright smile. After taking a photo with the four people, he did not forget to pay tribute to Jerry Sloan:

"Coach Sloan is highly respected in the NBA and is a loyal, winning, no-nonsense leader!"

"He is one of only seven coaches in NBA history to win at least 10 games in 50 or more seasons."

On Friday, September 9, major sports media across the United States began reporting on tonight's Hall of Fame ceremony, while in New York, the new season began to warm up, with the New York Times and other media taking the lead:
"Lee will surpass Wilt Chamberlain and Michael Jordan in the new season and rise to third place in the scoring list!"

"In the new season, Lee will completely surpass Bill Russell and win his 12th championship!"

"By achieving three consecutive MVP titles for the second time, Lee will create an unprecedented achievement!"

"Tied with Michael Jordan's record, Lee has secured the scoring title, the legend continues!"

"."

In addition to these achievements, there are also some "small records", and fans who want to witness such historical moments on the spot have to pay for tickets.

The Knicks are also warming up for the new season with their peripheral products, not only launching 8 consecutive championship hats and T-shirts, but also launching a "Lord of the Rings hooded sweatshirt" as they are about to enter winter.

In addition to the classic Big Apple color scheme, additional colors have been added. In short, while the media is counting the dunk data, New York is completely boiling with this trend.

As for Hook, he had already made the promise last season that the brand new God-Lee series of signature shoes would be released at the All-Star Game. The shoes would not be re-skinned but would be loaded with new features to ensure that the fans would be satisfied.

Don’t ask the price, because this is a gift for your family!

Li You came to Springfield without his family. This Hall of Fame was considered a gathering of old guys.

Charles Oakley got together with several members of the Bulls these past two days. When Li You came over in the afternoon, Kukoc, who was wearing glasses and dressed like a gentleman, breathed a sigh of relief. He was somewhat unaccustomed to "tough guy chats."

"Hey Bro, how's it going?"

Li You, dressed casually, came to the hotel and greeted his old teammate warmly. The latter smiled and talked about his experience in the past two days, and said helplessly:
"It's a bit bad! Charles and his friends always like to argue. You know, the ones discussing 'IF' are the most interesting."

At this time, only Pippen was left in the room. Charles Barkley and others had all run away. Oakley boasted about his return to New York, and most of the old guys couldn't stand it.

"The selection rules should really be revised. I have said long ago that some people should not be selected."

"."

Oakley grinned and laughed at his former opponents, and Pippen did not refute. Anyway, there is a high probability that he will be selected next year. As long as the dunk still has traffic, the fans will not forget him.

“Uncle Lee!”

When Jeffrey saw Li You, he hurriedly greeted him warmly. On the other side, Marcus was still looking at his aunt. When he heard his brother's voice, he stood up and hugged Li You.

Jasmine showed a curious look. Unlike her two brothers, she had never dealt with Li You. The young girl gave him a simple hug and stayed aside.

"Good job, man, state champion, your dad is happy about it, and as for the media, he's protecting you."

Li You patted Marcus on the shoulder and spoke well of Michael Jordan. Although his second son had made some achievements, Michael Jordan still did not publicize it. However, he was very happy in private.

The young man nodded and pretended to understand. He chose the University of Florida and did not go to a famous basketball school, which made him feel a little regretful.

While Jeffrey was greeting Li You, Marcus quickly showed his courtesy to his sister. Pippen also stood up and hugged him. When talking about the recently discussed data, he joked:

"Jabbar probably never thought that he would see his own scoring record surpassed. I wonder if he will write another book to talk about it."

"Those old guys in the past were just brushing up their statistics. We all know that they should thank the underdeveloped broadcasting conditions at that time."

Oakley, who has won a championship, looks disdainful when talking about the celebrities. He not only hates Charles Barkley, but anyone who likes to show off will never get a good evaluation from him.

“Data is data, it doesn’t matter.”

Li You shrugged his shoulders. In fact, it was just as he said. Only when these historically famous stars are surpassed, will these accumulated data attract more discussion. Compared with the championship, this was more like a gimmick.

Soon they stopped talking about basketball. The financial crisis had left everyone with a thinner wallet, so they all became excited when talking about real estate investment.

Larsa Pippen didn't notice that Marcus was being courted by several people. She hadn't changed into her formal attire yet and was still wearing a black skirt suit. When she heard her husband talking about his career plan, she quickly added in a sweet voice:
"I'm going to be a regular on Keeping Up With the Kardashians next year, and I'm feeling pretty good about it. Lee, is it true that you started a film production company?"

When Kim Kardashian and her sisters came to New York to record the show, they always wanted to seek interaction. Unfortunately, they couldn't find any opportunity at all. Faced with the "huge traffic", the family still doesn't want to give up and are extremely well-informed.

"It's just a tool to pass the time. Some people want to work with me."

Li You glanced at Larsa Pippen, who spoke in a coquettish voice, and did not deny the news.

Falcone's wife opened a film production company last year, and the two parties have cooperated in hedge funds. The girls happened to have nothing to do, and the new company could help them kill time and earn some money for milk powder.

Marcus felt a little disappointed when he saw his aunt joining the conversation, as he had wanted to say a few more words.

At 18:30, the auditorium was full. Looking around, most of the faces were familiar. Isaiah Thomas, who had not appeared in front of the media for a long time, also sat in the middle seat with a smile on his face.

There is no doubt that the protagonist of tonight is Michael Jordan. Although the speeches of the previous speakers were good, everyone is looking forward to Michael Jordan's appearance.

When Mike, dressed in a silver suit, and his recommender David Thompson came on stage, the cheers and applause in the auditorium could not stop.

The camera quickly scanned the family's seats. Yvette Prieto, who was wearing a red dress, smiled and clapped, and the older children also had happy smiles on their faces.

Also near the front row, Li You and Oakley were both wearing black suits. The organizer deliberately arranged Barkley to sit nearby, and the camera swept over them from time to time, as if expecting something to happen.

Perhaps recalling his career, Mike burst into tears amid the cheers and kept expressing his gratitude until the scene quieted down again, and then he formally gave his speech.

The first person he thanked was his old partner Pippen. After receiving cheers, Mike joked about the person he chose to recommend him and also talked about the impact of North Carolina's college basketball on him.

When talking about the competition among family members, there was constant laughter, and when talking about his own eldest child, the laughter got even louder:
"Geoffrey and Marcus have inherited some of my traits and talents and they will always get more attention, which in my opinion is not a good thing for young people."

"I found the best training camp for Jeffrey, but after a week at Lee's, he came back and told me that he no longer wanted to play in the NBA!"

"OK! I didn't say anything at the time, but now I want to say that Li has achieved a lot, but he is not destined to be a qualified coach."

Jeffrey subconsciously covered his head. He was now completely focused on his studies and business. Michael smiled at Haodaer and finally said:
"Thanks my little brother, you made my career a little less perfect!"

"."

The speech was very long. After thanking everyone, Michael concluded:
"Basketball is everything to me. It brings me so much glory, but sometimes it also makes me feel miserable."

"Maybe one day you'll see a 50-year-old Michael Dunk running on the court. Everything is possible. I want to tell young people to enjoy the moment!"

"Forget the pain and troubles and enjoy the happiness brought by basketball!"

(End of this chapter)