NBA: Miracle Workers

Chapter 862 "Who is More Successful?" (Chapter without main character)
On Wednesday, May 29, 2013, the Western Conference Finals saw a crucial Game 5.

Having successfully secured two home games, the Spurs returned to Oklahoma City, and more and more commentators began to focus on the aging Tim Duncan, bringing the once-famous MVP back into the public eye.

Besides discussing the game, other topics were also hotly debated by sports media, appearing on social media after LeBron James' quiet elimination last night:
"Between LeBron James and veteran stars, who is more successful?"

"."

The answer was obvious, after all, James only reached the NBA Finals once in his career.

But to the surprise of fans, in a poll conducted by ESPN, 80% of casual observers believed that the chosen one was more successful!
Many sports fans have expressed doubts about this result, but ESPN says it did not interfere with the vote.

Some professional sports bloggers on YouTube have also given the same answer, and their video opinions have gained more recognition from casual viewers.

"Among active players, apart from Dirk Nowitzki, no one has ever won a championship as a core player."

"Tim Duncan and Kobe Bryant may have experienced more Finals, but they are no different from LeBron James."

"In basketball, James led the Heat to the Finals and won the MVP this season. His individual accolades have completely surpassed Kobe's and matched Duncan's achievements."

"In terms of business, nobody will buy Duncan's sports merchandise, Kobe can only sell his products in China, and James is the highest-paid player in the NBA this season."

"Whether in Cleveland or Miami, James has achieved success. In some ways, the Eastern Conference Finals and the NBA Finals are not that different."

"."

The video quoted content recently published by a sports business magazine, in which James ranked second in the American sports world with an income of $3900 million, while boxing champion Mayweather ranked first.

While neither Duncan nor Kobe had a "Driver" ring, James gained wider recognition through his commercial success.

What makes many fans even more heartbroken is that Duncan and Kobe, who have experienced the Finals multiple times, are still labeled as "losers," and the two who stood on the highest stage have become the biggest joke in the league.

Many sports writers agree with this view, stating that the majority of James' income comes from endorsements, something that veterans like Kobe and Duncan simply cannot match.

Not only are they inferior to the chosen ones, but in terms of popularity of their personal merchandise, the two veterans are even less popular than new generation MVPs like Derrick Rose and Kevin Durant.

Even Dwight Howard is better than the two in terms of endorsements. Nobody likes a "loser," and multiple Finals appearances have become a laughing stock.
Despite some skepticism, the question Bill Simmons posed on Twitter left both Duncan and Kobe's die-hard fans speechless:

"Do you know anyone who would buy products endorsed by Tim Duncan or Kobe Bryant?"

"If you're only concerned with jerseys, a visit to the official NBA store in New York will easily provide the answer."

Despite his commercial success, LeBron James doesn't have the best reputation among active players; Dirk Nowitzki, with his "Driver" ring, is far ahead.

If it weren't for his incorrect status, the German would already be the current vice GOAT!
With the Spurs in increasingly better form and Duncan potentially returning to the Finals, the related topic has become increasingly popular, making that night's pivotal Game 5 even more anticipated.

At 19 p.m. that evening, Chesapeake Energy Arena was once again transformed into a sea of ​​blue and white, with Oklahoma City fans showing 200% enthusiasm in support of the team, many of them holding up posters of Durant and Harden.

James Harden has successfully risen to prominence thanks to his outstanding performance in the playoffs, and with the Thunder not planning to pay too much luxury tax, rumors of Westbrook being put on the trading block are increasing.

This situation created an awkward atmosphere in the locker room. It's not uncommon in the NBA for teams to secure big contracts while their teammates are injured, and in most cases, the team has to choose one of the two options.

Vince Carter, as the team's senior player, didn't want any conflicts to arise at crucial moments. Before the game, in the player tunnel, the veteran stood in the center and loudly reminded everyone:
"Never underestimate any opponent! Don't bring luck into the game, stay patient, trust each other, family, it's tough!"

With a few shouts from the crowd, the young Thunder players, led by Durant, jogged out of the player tunnel, and cheers echoed throughout the arena.

Harden's dark face also showed excitement. After his name was called, he and Westbrook, who was dressed in a suit, made a set of gestures.

The harmonious interaction between the two drew cheers from the fans, showing the Thunder's unity!
Sapo Soflosa has had a mediocre performance in this series and has recently been involved in trade rumors. However, as an important perimeter defender, he has always been trusted by the coaching staff.

No one criticized the Spurs for drawing on the road, as most people didn't believe they could maintain their efficient offense at home.

After the singing segment ended, Jeff Green patted his chest and looked excited. Although they didn't win on the road, everyone firmly believed that James Harden's good form wouldn't last long!
As a current contender for the second-highest GOAT, Durant was undoubtedly the star of the night. ESPN frequently focused their cameras on the young MVP, and the two commentators on the set were also discussing this highly efficient scorer.
"I think Kevin Durant has successfully caught up with LeBron James, and his progress is faster than anyone expected!"

"Among the new generation of players, James is excellent, but on some decisions, many people, like me, admire Durant's 'loyalty'."

"Oklahoma City fans are one of the most passionate fan groups I've ever seen. In terms of their commitment to the game, they're just as dedicated as New York City fans."

Jeff Van Gundy once again raved about Durant, even though he doesn't actually like the current basketball culture.

Commercial success cannot replace achievements in basketball, but unfortunately, he was powerless to change that everyone prefers "rich people."
Feeling the noisy atmosphere in the arena, Mike Breen nodded in agreement after hearing these comments, acknowledging the importance of the "one man, one city" award, and expressing his admiration for Durant in this regard.

"Before the series started, I believe most commentators did not expect the Spurs to display such a crazy offense!"

"The Thunder played very well in both away games, but unfortunately, their opponents played better on offense."

"The ability to respond in time will determine the course of the game. Once again, I salute Tim Duncan for dominating the paint at this age. It is no easy feat."

"."

The two were not predicted before the game, and they had been "slapped in the face" by Popovich in the face in the away game before. The old guy always manages to come up with some new tricks.

An attacking battle requires immense courage, and playing away from home will undoubtedly be even more difficult.

This game will determine the course of the series. If the Spurs win, they will have a chance to advance to the Finals when they return to their home court!
Both teams continued with their previous starting lineups. Accompanied by shouts of "OKC", Duncan successfully jumped for the ball and strode across half-court to receive it early on the right elbow area.

Duncan, who was turning sideways to hand off the ball, suddenly released it. Before Perkins could react, Duncan had already completed the breakthrough, quickly turned around near the restricted area, and the moment he entered the paint, he threw the ball out with one hand while leaning to the side!

"shush"

The basketball swished through the net, followed by a chorus of boos echoing throughout the arena. Jeff Green's attempt to protect the rim proved futile, prompting Perkins to mutter in frustration that he had no answer for Duncan's offense.

During the Thunder's offensive possession, Harden didn't push the ball up the court quickly. Since realizing that the opponent was also good at fast-paced offense, the coaching staff actually asked him to slow down a bit.

Upon arriving at the right wing, Harden didn't rush to initiate a pick-and-roll. Instead, he immediately passed the ball to Durant, who had bounced off the baseline and into the blocking area.

Durant received the ball with his back to the basket, and as soon as he landed, he felt the defense behind him. He leaned back against Leonard, then suddenly twisted his body quickly, released the ball with his right hand, and accelerated forcefully.

After taking two big dribbles, Durant immediately stopped and faked a move. Seeing that Leonard was not disturbed, Durant simply pulled up and made a mid-range jump shot.

The two key players led the charge from the start, and soon the two sides began another attacking battle.

Unlike the two away games, the "law of conservation of luck" came into play when they returned home. Jeff Green and Soflosa, who had been missing shots, improved their shooting percentage and steadily seized the opportunities created by their teammates.

As the opponent continued to score, the Spurs were not to be outdone. Parker was in particularly good offensive form, frequently attacking Perkins after pick-and-rolls.

Harden failed to mount a comeback like Westbrook, allowing the Frenchman to maintain his shooting touch, sinking pull-up jumpers and floaters from the paint with ease. As the score went back and forth, the cheers in the arena grew louder and louder. Oklahoma City fans prefer watching offense to defensive battles, especially when the home team is dominating the opponent's offense!

In the final moments of the first quarter, Durant hit his signature three-pointer in transition and then disrupted the opponent's offense.

"Oh!!"

The offensive and defensive plays drew cheers from the fans, and Durant, who was clapping and encouraging them, seemed quite pleased with himself. However, with 4.7 seconds left, the young MVP did not go all out to defend Leonard, who was receiving the ball in the left corner.

As Durant turned to look at the basket, he couldn't help but mutter a curse. Leonard had responded with a three-pointer, which greatly annoyed him.

At 29:33, the gap was narrowed to 4 points, but the Thunder's bench was still jubilant. As expected, Harden's shooting percentage started to decline!

As the first quarter ended, Van Gundy on the commentary desk smiled with satisfaction. This was the intensity expected of a conference finals game; the Eastern Conference was simply too unpredictable, and Game 4 almost became a showcase for the young players.
"I don't think anyone will question Tim Duncan's good form anymore. 3-for-3 shooting, 1-for-2 from the free-throw line, 7 points, 5 rebounds and 1 assist. That's an outstanding performance."

The Spurs continued with their previous game strategy.

Both teams used a big man and four small men lineup, but the Spurs' offense was smoother than the eliminated Heat's, with a noticeably faster ball movement. Mike Breen didn't expect Popovich to resolutely abandon the twin towers strategy.
"Offense wins championships, and this Spurs team reminds me of the Knicks in the Finals."

"Perhaps after a series of defeats, the Spurs have finally completed their transformation."

"."

Both teams shortened their rotations in this important game. Although the Thunder made some mistakes, Harden and Durant's individual abilities consistently helped the team suppress their opponents.

Before halftime, Harden extended the lead with consecutive step-back three-pointers, and the excited bearded man even twisted his body and pounded his chest while retreating on defense, shouting passionately.

When Ginobili's layup attempt was disrupted by Perkins and missed, the jubilant Oklahoma City fans even stood up and shouted loudly when they saw Durant throw the ball to Harden.

The excited young man started "working" at the top of the key again, dribbling between his legs and shaking his body. A sudden change of direction allowed Harden to shake off Ginobili.

"Oh!"

Amid cheers, Harden, now on his left, faked a drive and pulled up for a quick layup before stepping back and decisively launching a three-pointer!

After releasing the ball, Harden suddenly sensed something was wrong. Ginobili's defense left him no room to land. He tried to twist his body but it was too late. Ginobili landed a solid foot on him, and the young man fell to the ground in pain.

Despite the referee calling a foul, Durant, who had a clear view of the incident, showed anger and rushed over to push away Ginobili, who was trying to check on Harden.
"What the hell did you do? Don't tell me it was unintentional."

Durant, who was shouting and cursing, was pulled away by the referee, but Perkins, who rushed over, continued to shout. If he hadn't been stopped, the big black guy would have even wanted to punch his opponent.

The Oklahoma City fans at the stadium were furious. After watching the replay, they realized Ginobili had clearly done it on purpose; the old man didn't even jump, he just stretched out his leg.
After the referee called a flagrant foul, Popovich on the sidelines was still indignant on behalf of his player. The old man shouted a few times and was warned before he crossed his arms and watched the opponent take the free throw.

At halftime, angry Oklahoma City fans unleashed a torrent of abuse. After Harden was carried off the court by his teammates, everyone sensed something was wrong. If they lost Game 5, the series would be completely overturned.

An ESPN reporter, who had been waiting outside the locker room, said with some regret to the camera after receiving confirmation:

"James Harden will be unable to return for this game, and it remains uncertain whether he will be able to return for the rest of the series."

-

On Friday, May 31, San Antonio sports media continued to praise the Spurs' "comeback" in Game 5.

With the score at 114-104, the veterans have secured match point and have a very high chance of lifting the Western Conference championship trophy tonight!

With too little rest time, James Harden is confirmed to miss Game 6, and the Thunder have lost another key player. Now they can only hope that Durant and a few others can have a breakout performance tonight.

Social media was awash with criticism of the Spurs, with Vince Carter launching a full-blown attack after the game:
"The Spurs are the dirtiest team in the league! That's their team culture, and this team disgusts me!"

"."

The veteran spoke up for Durant, and head coach Brooks also criticized the referee's calls. Despite the existence of the foul rule, Ginobili has not been suspended, which has made the entire Thunder team very dissatisfied.

The league also had its considerations. Popovich spoke up for his player after the game, explaining with a helpless expression in an interview:
“Manu is almost 36 years old. He’s just a bit clumsy. He’s playing defense with all his might. Nobody wants to see this result.”

Not only that explanation, Popovich also cited the example that Ginobili had never injured any player in the past, and the league ultimately did not impose a suspension, believing this unexpected explanation.

Spurs fans naturally supported their team, and many voiced their opinions on social media, believing that Harden stepped on his own foot and that it was all an accident.

In this atmosphere of public opinion, the game that started at 19 p.m. that night was full of tension, and the young players, who were playing with anger, dealt a heavy blow to their opponents right from the start!

Less than two minutes later, during a scramble for a rebound, Perkins collided with Duncan's injured left knee, causing the latter to fall to the ground in pain.

But this "accident" did not defeat Duncan. Instead, in a later game, Perkins hit his thigh during a scramble for the ball and screamed in pain.

With the team losing players again, head coach Brooks finally lost his temper, his face flushed and his voice booming, causing the whistle to blow frequently in the subsequent game, and both sides lost their preferred offensive rhythm.

The two teams traded leads until the fourth quarter. In the final moments, Durant made two free throws to tie the game, but Ginobili's game-winning shot failed, sending the game into overtime.

It was assumed that the younger players would have better stamina, but Durant, who only rested for 4 minutes during overtime, couldn't hold on. After missing several shots, he could only watch as Duncan consistently scored 2 points under the basket.

Leonard even delivered a spectacular block, and Durant, who had been in isolation mode, suddenly went into a scoring drought.

"MVP! MVP! MVP!"

When Duncan stepped to the free-throw line again, the Spurs fans in the arena roared with excitement, knowing they were about to lift the Western Conference championship trophy once more.

As Durant continued to miss three-pointers, the game clock expired, and cheers echoed throughout the arena. In overtime, Duncan led the score 11-6, scoring 7 points and Diaw added 4, ending the series.

A frustrated Durant pursed his lips, his face full of resentment. He only scored 4 points, going 1-for-6 from the field and 2-for-2 from the free-throw line. He should have done better.

Carter contributed 12 points off the bench and also scored in overtime, but the Thunder were unable to contain Duncan's strong attacks under the basket and ultimately suffered a heartbreaking loss.

Neither of them greeted their opponent, and they left quickly one after the other, ending the season in this way, leaving them feeling frustrated.

On the other side, Parker, Ginobili, and Duncan huddled together, having reunited to reach the Finals once again. The veterans were so excited that their eyes were red, a testament to their tremendous efforts.

Popovich, during an interview with ESPN, also shed tears of emotion in front of the camera. The veteran, returning for his second stint, didn't answer many questions, but simply expressed his feelings:
"We just want to win back respect, not only for Tim, but for San Antonio!"

"I'm glad we did it, and I believe the Spurs have the opportunity to go even further!"

"."

(End of this chapter)