NBA: Miracle Workers

Chapter 856 MVP is greater than the "Passenger" Ring (Chapter without Main Character)
On Tuesday, April 30, 2013, ESPN reported on a touching scene that took place in Philadelphia the previous night.

The 76ers suffered another crushing defeat in their battle for honor, and as they embarked on a fishing trip, enthusiastic fans who had traveled from across the ocean offered them "warmth" at this moment.

Despite losing by 60 points, Kobe Bryant gave a heartwarming smile after the game to comfort his emotional fans, and many reporters captured this moment.

The outcome of the game was insignificant at this moment, and the content of this morning's column in the Philadelphia Inquirer made many local fans feel "ashamed":
"When support was most needed, Chinese fans stepped up. I should reflect on why the atmosphere at home games was so bad."

"Maybe we've never really supported the 76ers; many fans just want to experience the feeling of being a 'winner.' Kobe has brought back the initial excitement that basketball brought us!"

"."

The photo cited is a group photo of Kobe and Chinese fans who have traveled a long way to see him. Many commentators saw the Mamba with such a peaceful smile for the first time.

There is a growing discussion on social media about Kobe and his Chinese fans. Previously, the general public did not understand, but after paying attention to Tracy McGrady's poor performance on the other side of the ocean, more and more people began to empathize.

The Associated Press also reported on last night's group photo, but unlike the reflective Philadelphia, its headline was simple and direct:
"Kobe has won over Chinese fans!"

The article predicts that Kobe will likely return to the CBA in the future. Although he is no longer good in the NBA, he can play until he is 40 years old on the other side of the ocean, as long as he does not suffer any major injuries.

Unlike after Game 3 when he missed the press conference due to injury, Kobe insisted on appearing in front of the media last night despite his foot injury.

He didn't talk about the game at all, nor about his drastically declining shooting percentage after returning to his home court. Kobe kept talking about his bond with Chinese fans, and finally even criticized the basketball environment in the United States:
"The NBA has become too entertainment-oriented, and many people have forgotten the essence of basketball."

"In the United States, when people talk about the NBA, all they think about is championships and statistics. Everyone has forgotten how they first fell in love with the sport. Now, all they remember are those dazzling honors."

"In China, few fans care about these things; the pure basketball environment allows them to see much more!"

“No player will be ridiculed for a bad game because they don’t care about that. Winning and losing are just part of basketball, which is why I emphasize the Mamba Mentality.”

"Most people face a lot of failures in their lives, and the attitude towards failure is the most important thing."

"This is the best moment of my career. I am very grateful to the fans who came from China to support the 76ers. They are the best fans in the world!"

"."

Even before the start of the new season, Kobe, who had returned from China, promoted his Mamba Mentality, but most fans did not feel it deeply.

Seeing fans on the other side of the world crying for Kobe during his two home games this year has prompted many to reflect on whether the Mamba Mentality truly exists!

Of course, the group reflecting on the situation did not include New York fans, those who were happy about the win, and the New York media. With a 120-point loss in two games, a new record was set, and everyone joined in laughing at Mamba.

Philadelphia newspapers remained completely silent about the game, while in New York, several mainstream media outlets resolutely mocked it.

"Brick City's got a new mayor—Kobe Bryant."

The city of Bricklay has a new mayor—Kobe Bryant. There are many similar headlines, and the articles also discuss Kobe's post-game remarks, but columnists dismiss them all.
"A loser's declaration: New York doesn't need clowns like this."

"In basketball, you only need to think about winning the championship. Li never makes excuses for himself. The GOAT doesn't need to embellish his achievements."

"17 seasons, 14 championships. New York doesn't need to worry about how to deal with defeat because Lee is God's chosen winner."

"."

Compared to its neighbors, New York has a much greater influence. The same goes for the Washington Post; they completely ignored Kobe's Mamba Mentality, no one considered the feelings of the losers, and everyone only praised the winners.

TMZ, a purely gossip website, also mocked Kobe from another angle, which resonated with many onlookers:

"Kobe may have forgotten that he almost ended his current marriage. A person who betrayed his family wants to be our life mentor."

"Li will soon welcome his 14th child. As a devoted man, he takes responsibility for his family. A natural winner, he never lectures us."

"God will not favor a two-faced person. America does not need Kobe. Take your Mamba Mentality to the other side of the world and 'preach'!"

The entire article can be summarized as "Lee is different," "Lee is the winner chosen by God," and "Kobe, who belittles fans, doesn't deserve to be an American."
Despite its abstract nature, the content spread widely on social media, with Twitter filled with support and Facebook even seeing a discussion group called "Remove Kobe's U.S. Citizenship".

The unfavorable public opinion environment made Kobe cherish the friendship across the ocean even more, and he wanted to return to China even though Vanessa didn't like it.

Sina Sports immediately brought back the Mamba's promise to Chinese fans, and the topic generated a lot of discussion on Weibo. After witnessing McGrady's poor performance, fans appreciated Kobe even more.

Discussions about related news in the US were not interrupted until the afternoon, when several ESPN commentators simultaneously broke the news on Twitter:
"LeBron James will lift his first MVP trophy next Monday!"

"."

After the winner was confirmed, the die-hard fans of the chosen one got excited and immediately joined the ranks of those criticizing Kobe.

Among active superstars, only Kobe Bryant has a ring besides Li You. To become the true second-best, one must first surpass the Mamba. Suddenly, a voice has emerged on social media:
"LeBron James has completely surpassed Kobe Bryant's achievements!"

To put it simply, the MVP trophy is bigger than the "passenger" ring!
-

On Wednesday, May 1st, the Western Conference playoffs entered a heated phase, with the Warriors and Nuggets even coming to blows in last night's game.

After unexpectedly losing a home game, the Nuggets were overwhelmed by their opponent's small lineup, and Mark Jackson's three-guard setup proved surprisingly effective!

When Harrison Barnes moved to the power forward position, the Warriors' offense finally returned to its regular season level, forcing the Nuggets to take the initiative.

The round that sparked the conflict involved Lawson, Wilson Chandler, and Costa Koufos taking turns using footwork and forceful blocks.

Curry couldn't hold on in the fourth quarter and was knocked to the ground during a fast break. Draymond Green and several others went to argue with him, but to no avail, and the two sides started swinging at each other in front of the referees.

Not only did players clash, but Mark Jackson also had a verbal altercation with George Karl, who is likely to win Coach of the Year this season. After being taught a lesson by a playoff rookie, the old man broke down.

Draymond Green and Kenneth Faried were both suspended, but their attitudes toward the punishment were completely different.

The Warriors secured a match point, and Draymond Green mocked his opponents on Twitter after the game.
"They were terrified; a bunch of clowns were scared by Curry's three-pointers!"

"The Warriors will advance. Curry has fulfilled his promise. Maybe he can't become the next Lee, but I know we will definitely win a championship in the future."

George Karl would naturally not admit to implying that his own players were trying to harm Curry, but in an interview after the afternoon practice session, the victim himself spoke out:

“We all know that’s not a basketball move! I know they’re trying to stop the Warriors that way, but I’m not going to be ‘knocked down’.”

“I will not miss Game 6; I want to finish off our opponents at home.”

The baby-faced Curry is tougher than many basketball commentators imagined. He just underwent ankle surgery last year, yet he still rose to the challenge despite malicious attacks from opponents, displaying exceptional leadership qualities.

CSN Bay Area Sports is the official television broadcaster of the Warriors. During the regular season, they often touted Curry as the next Li You and are also the local sports media that covers the Knicks the most.

Seeing Curry perform so well, reaching the semifinals in his first career playoff run, the reporters at the scene all smiled, offering their praise before their usual gossip:

"Stephen, have you been following the Eastern Conference playoffs? What do you think of Kobe's opinion?"

Unlike his partner, Curry didn't speak bluntly; instead, he shrugged and responded tactfully:

“I won’t miss any Knicks games, you know, as a point guard, I’ve been learning everything from Lee since I was very young.”

"It's great to witness Lee's dominance again. As for Kobe's words, I don't want to comment too much. I'm just a basketball player who just signed a pretty good contract."

"Thank God I'm healthy again. I just want to work hard and bring victories to the Bay Area fans."

That evening, the Rockets, fresh off their victory, returned to Oklahoma City, where local fans staged a boycott before the game began.

In Game 3, Patrick Beverley, who came off the bench, collided with Westbrook's knee near the midcourt line, causing Westbrook to miss the rest of the season. The Thunder lost a key player, a huge loss.

After losing the previous game, Durant spoke out for his teammate, criticizing Beverley and also attacking the referees' officiating.

Fortunately, the team still has James Harden and Jeff Green. As long as there are no more injuries in the later games, the Thunder will still be a championship contender. The Warriors can deploy a stretch lineup, but the Thunder are even more effective. After the game started at 19:30 p.m., seeing Jeff Green hit a three-pointer early, Coach McHale crossed his arms.

Even with Francisco Garcia joining the starting lineup, he couldn't contain Durant. After missing three-pointers in the last game, the MVP quickly regained his shooting touch back at home.

"Oh!!"

Amid cheers, Kevin Martin's drive and pass resulted in a turnover, forcing Yao Ming to desperately chase back.

Harden received the ball at lightning speed, slowed down slightly in the paint, and used a Euro step to dodge the defense as Jeremy Lin retreated. He then dribbled the ball with his left hand and banked it for a layup!

Patrick Patterson, who was tracking back on defense, looked helpless. The opponent's athleticism was too strong, and the Rockets were unable to control the pace of the game throughout the series. Yao Ming also failed to demonstrate a significant advantage.

On the offensive possession, seeing the head coach signal to slow down, Jeremy Lin stopped initiating pick-and-rolls and instead immediately found Yao Ming on the left low post after a cross screen.

Unable to defend in time, Perkins could only watch as Yao Ming received the ball, turned around, and calmly made a jump shot.

On the defensive end, Yao Ming, who didn't even have time to celebrate, was pulled back to the baseline. Tonight, Harden didn't "throw things around" after starting like he did in the last game, and he was very patient in orchestrating the offense.

After shaking off Jeremy Lin's pursuers, Harden, holding the ball with his left hand, suddenly accelerated, forcefully squeezing onto Yao Ming, and found Perkins cutting to the basket, who scored with an easy layup.

After Martin missed his three-pointer, Durant grabbed the rebound and sprinted across half-court again. Before reaching the three-point line, he suddenly stopped and launched a tough three-pointer over the defense, which went in!

"Oh!"

On the Thunder's bench, Vince Carter led the team in a loud cheer, with Reggie Jackson giving repeated high-fives. The Thunder displayed Finals-level offensive firepower.

The most outstanding player in the first quarter was not Durant, who repeatedly stepped up to the free-throw line. Harden was not only able to organize the offense and seize opportunities to exploit smaller opponents, but he also hit consecutive step-back three-pointers.

With two star players combining for 20 points, the game collapsed, ending 20-37, and the cheers in the arena couldn't be stopped.

Yao Ming, who was substituted early in the game, was not in a good mood. Motiejunas, who was standing next to him, also remained silent. Both of them had problems defending pick-and-rolls, but Harden's efficient performance of 4 out of 5 shots was completely unexpected.

In the CCTV studio across the ocean, Zhang Weiping was also discussing defensive issues, and the old man began his usual sigh:
"This is incredible! Boom boom boom, three consecutive three-pointers. Once Harden gets going, pick-and-rolls become very difficult to defend."

"Despite Westbrook's injury, the Thunder played better tonight. Kobe's kind of reckless offense just doesn't work. They weren't like this in previous games."

Yu Jia gave an awkward smile. He didn't want to take the bait. Kobe was incredibly popular in China; only the old man wasn't afraid of being complained about.

"Tonight's game will depend entirely on offense. No matter how well Yao Ming protects the rim, he can't keep Durant's attacks on the basket indefinitely."

"I still maintain that the Rockets should keep Scola. Patterson can't punish Jeff Green, and they also have problems with long rebounds."

The two discussed the game together in the studio, but the Rockets have been exceptionally successful commercially this season, and in terms of sponsorships, they've been incredibly successful!

Avoiding the topic of the salary cap is a way of not wanting to disappoint fans, but unfortunately, in the current competitive environment, spending money is truly not an option.

Kevin Martin struggled in the second quarter, going 1-for-5 from the field. After scoring 4 points from free throws, the game was essentially over.

Head coach McHale was worried about Yao Ming's foot injury and followed the team doctor's advice to rotate him early.

Time flew by, and when the buzzer sounded, the score was 96-117, with the Thunder advancing to the semifinals.

Harden bounced back with 31 points, shooting 11-for-16 from the field, 7-for-9 from three-point range, and 4-for-5 from the free-throw line. He also smiled after hugging Durant after the game.

Harden prefers starting to playing as the sixth man, as having the ball in his hands allows him to get into the game better.

Smiling broadly after winning, Harden and Durant, in high spirits, didn't complain at the press conference.

After repeatedly praising his opponents, when a reporter asked about gossip, Durant's dark expression softened into a strange smile again.
“I think LeBron James has indeed surpassed Kobe Bryant in terms of the highest honors.”

"He and I have both experienced the Finals, we have reached that level, and in the regular season, we led our teams to the best record in the league."

"MVP represents the team leader and everyone's recognition of you. Kobe is very successful and we all respect him, but the Mamba Mentality is not a trophy."

Although Durant phrased it rather tactfully, everyone present understood the underlying message: a superstar who hasn't won an MVP award simply isn't good enough.

-

On Monday, May 6th, the Pacers players, who had arrived in Miami ahead of schedule, felt a pang of sadness as LeBron James' moving speech swept across major media outlets that morning.

Derrick Rose has not yet fully recovered from his injury, but the Bulls remain a tough opponent. Head coach Thibodeau's defensive system has caused the Pacers considerable trouble.

Fortunately, Stephenson and Paul George, who had a history of playing against each other, both had outstanding performances in this round, and David West was also very solid at home, which allowed the team to advance with a hard-fought 4-2 victory.

That night, American Airlines Arena turned into a sea of ​​white once again. Although some Heat fans began to suspect that James was going to "run away," many more still believed that the chosen one would bring the team a championship.

With the best record in the league and the MVP trophy, the Heat are in top form this year, and everyone is looking forward to LeBron James fulfilling his promise!

Although David Stern disliked his initial "decision," the emergence of the Heat certainly added more excitement to the Eastern Conference games.

As it turns out, the "dual-core" strategy is indeed not feasible. In terms of the content of the game, last year's Eastern Conference Finals was one of the most exciting matchups in recent years.

“场均26.8分8.0篮板7.3助攻1.7抢断0.9盖帽，投篮命中率56.5%，三分球命中率40.6%。”

"This young man has shown us his versatility this season."

"Let's congratulate him again. The 2012-13 regular season MVP is LeBron James."

When David Stern handed the bronze statuette to the chosen one with a smile, James, who had touched the trophy that morning, was still a little excited. The feeling of winning the award was just too wonderful!
"MVP! MVP! MVP!"

James raised the trophy and began to circle around the center of the court to display it. The cheers in the arena rang out, and the chosen one nodded involuntarily. He had waited too long for this moment.

Just moments ago, Wade was applauding his good friend on the bench, but now his smile has vanished. The cheers that echoed throughout the arena made his heart ache; this was his "horse."

On MVP night, the game did not turn out to be the dominant performance that Heat fans had expected.

Thanks to outstanding performances from center David West and Roy Hibbert, the Pacers managed to keep the score close in the first half and also limited the opponent's offense.

At 42-45, although the lead was small, the fans in the arena were still jubilant, firmly believing that victory belonged to the Heat.

As the game entered the second half, Stephenson continued his poor shooting form, and substitute Shumpert also missed shots, but Paul George suddenly exploded onto the scene.

After hitting a crucial three-pointer with 0.7 seconds left in the game, Paul George roared with passion and pounded his chest repeatedly.

The game went into overtime, with both sides still neck and neck. With 2.2 seconds left, Paul George made all three free throws, giving the Pacers a one-point lead.

With the game seemingly on the verge of defeat, the Heat fans in the arena stood up one after another. At the crucial moment, James, who had received the ball on the sideline in the left elbow area, was ready to turn around and put the ball down with his left hand to break through.

Paul George was beaten and it was too late; he could only watch as James leaned forward and scored with a layup.

"what!!"

The entire arena erupted in cheers. On MVP night, the Heat fans, witnessing the triple-double and the game-winning shot, cheered wildly.

James' dark face was filled with excitement. At this moment, he was truly the second man. He broke through his teammates' encirclement, jumped directly onto the scorer's table, pounded his chest with both hands, pointed at the fans, and shouted loudly:

"This is my house!"

"."

(End of this chapter)