The NBA's Absolute Dominance

Chapter 83 The General Who Was Knocked Over Eight Times
After a two-round break, Tang Bei moved into the low position on the left wing and once again assertively demanded position and the ball.

But this time the teamwork wasn't very good. He started to position himself, and just as his left foot entered the penalty area, Bimbokors passed the ball down.

"No deep position."

Xu Jicheng stared at the screen in front of him and said.

"squeak!"

After receiving the ball, Tang Bei paused briefly, then turned downwards, pivoting on his right foot, and took a step towards the penalty area with his left foot.

But this time, he didn't use the power-generating technique of Tai Chi turning, nor did he dribble.

David Robinson simply retreated to defense.

But after he took a step back, he felt something was wrong, because Tang Bei's turning speed this time was not as fast or fierce as before.

"squeak!"

The next moment, Tang Bei's left foot, which had stepped into the penalty area, suddenly braked and then withdrew.

"Fake surprise and real surrender!"

David Robinson immediately realized what was happening, but he wasn't in a hurry.

Because everything was going according to his plan, Tang Bei's shooting skills and ability to score close to two points were not a threat at all.

As long as he makes a timely defensive move, even if he doesn't get back in time, it will definitely significantly reduce his shooting percentage.

He was only 1.3 meters away from Tang Bei. With his wingspan and jumping ability, he only needed a small step, 50 or 60 centimeters, to get there.

In the blink of an eye, just as Tang Bei withdrew his left foot, he immediately stepped out with his right foot, his defensive reaction was extremely fast.

"what?"

But the next moment, his eyes widened.

Tang Bei had just retracted his left foot, and before it even touched the ground, he immediately took another step forward, leaping up like a tiger pouncing on its prey, to meet the moving David Robinson.

"Oh!"

The next instant, with a heavy thud, his lower body, which had been airborne, slammed heavily into David Robinson.

David Robinson felt a sudden darkness before his eyes, as if he had been hit by a truck, and his forward-moving body was suddenly thrown backward.

"boom!"

The loud thud of the rim rang out, and an invisible shockwave instantly assaulted the eardrums of 16,000 Spurs fans, stirring their hearts.

"Oh!"

A huge gasp echoed through the arena as David Robinson fell to the ground.

"Ooh ho!"

Glen Rice and other players on the court, along with the Heat's bench, erupted in excited cheers.

David Robinson was moving and out of position when he was hit, and the referee quickly signaled that the two points were valid.

"Wow, that's amazing! Tang Bei dunked on David Robinson again, he dunked over the super center David Robinson once more..."

In the CCTV live broadcast studio, Xu Jicheng's voice was filled with excitement and enthusiasm.

Meanwhile, countless Chinese people shared the same sentiment in front of their televisions, and the venues where they watched the game together erupted in enthusiastic cheers.

"Hoo ho ho..."

After being knocked down, David Robinson slid more than a meter backward. Instead of getting up immediately, he lay on his back on the floor, panting heavily.

The dazzling lights on the ceiling were a bit blinding, making him feel dizzy, as if the lights were spinning.

But he knew it was from being hit and thrown; the strong impact made him dizzy and he needed some time to recover.

Spurs head coach Jerry Takanian called a timeout in time to give David Robinson some time to recover, and the Heat's momentum was too strong, so a timeout could be used to interrupt it.

In the ESPN studio, Michael Brin remarked, "It's quite astonishing that a superstar center like The Admiral was repeatedly dunked on by Tang and knocked down repeatedly."

Tom Tolbert nodded and said, "After two failed attacks, Tang quickly found a way to break through David Robinson's defense. He's very clever."

Michael Breen said, "Tang's performance surpasses that of Shaquille O'Neal against the legendary center Hakeem Olajuwon."

Tom Tolbert said, "Based on current performances, Donby David Robinson is the better player. His style of play is so brutal and violent, it's very entertaining."

Michael Brin said, "Now it's up to David Robinson to handle this. If he doesn't make a strong comeback, then even if the Spurs win tonight, he'll be just like Barkley, a backdrop for Don's performance."

“David, you have to get him back. You can’t let a newbie shit on your head.”

On the Spurs' bench, Avery Johnson said to David Robinson.

David Robinson abruptly ripped the towel off his face and gasped, "I'll teach him a lesson."

"Have you figured out how to deal with him?" Avery Johnson asked.

David Robinson nodded and said, "When he makes a feint, his turning speed isn't that fast; I overlooked that just now."

“That’s good,” Avery Johnson said.

After the timeout, the Spurs pulled three substitutes and fielded their full starting lineup.

In addition to David Robinson and Shawn Elliott, there is starting point guard Avery Johnson, starting shooting guard and swingman Dale Ellis, and starting power forward Antoine Kyle.

11:10, Spurs on offense.

David Robinson positioned himself in the low post on the left wing to receive the ball, but he didn't seem to be aiming for the deep post, instead deliberately creating distance between himself and Tang Bei.

After the ball is passed down, he leans down and prepares to break through with the ball.

"His first play was a fake drive followed by a shot, how will he play this time?"

While he was on guard and deep in thought, Tang Bei immediately bent down, preparing to defend himself.

"squeak!"

In the next instant, David Robinson stepped out with his right foot, dribbling the ball with his left hand, and broke through Tang Bei from below like a cheetah hunting its prey.

"He's dribbling!"

Feeling that David Robinson's move was genuine and not a feint, Tang Bei immediately performed a Tai Chi turn, spinning swiftly.

Although the defense is a step slower, he believes that with the speed of the Tai Chi turn, it is possible to keep up with the opponent's offensive rhythm.

"squeak!"

"Bang bang!"

But the next moment, David Robinson stopped abruptly, pulled up the ball, and then launched a jump shot.

"Damn it, I've been tricked again! They're so damn cunning, can't they be a little more honest?" Tang Bei, who was no longer going to return, couldn't help but curse inwardly.

"brush!"

Water splashes, two points hit.

In the ESPN studio, Michael Brin said, "David Robinson's score was very easy. Although it wasn't as spectacular as Don's dunk, it didn't take much effort."

Tom Tolbert nodded and said, "Yes, it's the same two points, but Tang's physical exertion is at least three times that of David Robinson, and the chance of physical damage and injury is even five to ten times higher."

Two minutes later, Tang Bei received the ball in a low position on the left wing. He didn't go deep into the box, and immediately performed a Tai Chi turn after receiving the ball, this time a top turn.

David Robinson keenly sensed Tang Bei's turning speed, which was extremely rapid, and decisively retreated to defend the basket.

"boom!"

When Tang Bei launched a powerful dunk, he collided with David Robinson, knocking him over and slamming the ball into the basket.

"Di!"

But then the whistle blew, and the referee ran over, pointed at him, and made an offensive foul gesture.

Tang Bei was a little frustrated. He had used up a lot of energy, but only got one foul. It was not worth it.

"Ouch!"

Xu Jicheng said regretfully, "David Robinson made the right prediction and took his defensive position in advance, which led to Tang Bei's charging foul."

Sun Zhenping said, "Is this the fourth time David Robinson has been knocked down by Tang Bei?"

"Probably," Xu Jicheng chuckled.

In the ensuing match, David Robinson and Tang Bei engaged in a fierce offensive and defensive battle.

David Robinson possesses superb and comprehensive offensive and defensive skills, as well as extensive game experience.

On the defensive end, Tang Bei could only use his superior size and strength to prevent the opponent from getting close to the basket easily, but he still couldn't stop the opponent's shots and drives to the basket for dunks, nor could he effectively stop the opponent's fast breaks.

His athleticism is no less than David Robinson's, and he also has a signature tornado-like spin attack technique formed by his Tai Chi spin, which David Robinson has no good way to stop his low post offense.

Throughout the game, Tang Bei knocked down and dunked on David Robinson a total of eight times, and also had four poster dunks, making the super center look very embarrassed.

The two players battled fiercely, each delivering many spectacular moments. Ultimately, the Spurs prevailed 99-104 at home, thanks to their superior strength.

Tang Bei lost his first game with the Heat, feeling frustrated and regretful, but there was nothing he could do.

徐计成在赛后说道：“唐北上场40分钟，18投11中，命中率61%，加上6罚3中，得到25分13篮板，但有6次失误和5次犯规。

大卫·罗宾逊打了43分钟，16投8中，10罚8中，得到24分10篮板，但有7次助攻，只有2次失误和2次犯规。”

Sun Zhenping said, "Actually, in terms of offensive and defensive statistics, Tang Bei is no worse than David Robinson, and his offensive efficiency is even higher. He lost because of too many turnovers and fouls."

"Correct."

Xu Jicheng nodded and said, "David Robinson mainly shoots on offense and doesn't attack the basket much. His offensive efficiency of 50% isn't high."

Tang Bei's performance in this game wasn't bad; it was quite commendable. With more opportunities to play against these top centers, I believe his performance will improve even further.

"Another point..."

He continued, "Tang Bei's contribution to the team is far less than David Robinson's, which can be seen from his assist statistics. This is one of the important reasons why the Heat lost the game."

"Oh!"

"David, are you alright?"

Back in the locker room, David Robinson took off his jersey, causing a stir among the entire room.

His chest and back were covered in bruises, which were very obvious, showing just how intense the match had been.

"Damn newbie!"

He muttered something under his breath, and even he, who considered himself a superior elite human, couldn't help but swear.

Facing off against Tang Bei, as a super center, he certainly couldn't back down, but the result of the confrontation was that he is now covered in bruises.

Now, every breath he takes is accompanied by pain in his chest, and his ribs seem to be groaning.

"David, go to the hospital for a check-up first, and rest for the next game," said head coach Jerry Tacanian.

David Robinson hesitated for a moment. He was sore all over and knew he wouldn't feel better for the next two days. He also knew he needed to get checked out. So he nodded.

Meanwhile, in the away team's locker room, Tang Bei didn't have as many bruises and contusions on his body.

He weighs over 20 kilograms more, covered with stronger muscles, like a layer of armor, giving him a stronger ability to protect himself.

Despite losing the game, the atmosphere in the locker room was excellent, and the players were very enthusiastic.

Glenn Rice exclaimed excitedly, "Don, you made David Robinson fall to the ground eight times today; he became your backdrop."

"It's a pity we lost," Tang Bei said regretfully.

Veteran John Salley, dressed in a suit, said, "The team lost, but you won, rookie. You're going to be famous."

Glen Rice nodded enviously and said, "If you make a super center like The Admiral fall to the ground eight times and dunk on him four times in a single game, you'll be on the front page of every major media outlet tomorrow."

After taking a shower, Tang Bei went to attend the press conference.

In the hallway, John Liu followed behind and said, "Tang, the Hornets lost to the Knicks again in a back-to-back game. Now they are 13 wins and 6 losses, tied with the Bulls."

"Two consecutive losses?"

After muttering to himself, Tang Bei said with shame, "John, I was actually a little gloating. It seems my thinking is a bit outdated!"

John Liu, suppressing a laugh, said, "It's hard to hold it in. Just laugh if you want to."

"Haha..." Tang Bei burst into laughter.

Head coaches Kevin Longley and Glen Rice, who were walking ahead, listened to the conversation between the two, glanced back, and couldn't help but laugh.

"David, how would you rate Don's performance against you tonight?"

An hour later, at the Spurs' press conference, a reporter asked David Robinson a question.

After considering for a moment, he said, "He's very good; his impact on the rim is terrifying."

"Who do you think has a better chance of becoming the fourth greatest center: him, O'Neal, or Mourning?" the reporter pressed.

He smiled and said, "This year's rookies are all fantastic. All three of them have put up 20+10 stats right out of the gate. I believe the NBA is about to usher in a golden age for centers."

He paused for a moment, then continued, "As for the fourth super center, I think Tang and O'Neal have a better chance."

The next reporter asked David Robinson, "David, the media has always believed that Don and O'Neal's careers won't last long. Besides Reebok, shoe brands have also held this view. What do you think?"

David Robinson nodded and said, "Their physique and playing style are indeed unprecedented in the league. They take a huge toll on the body, and without strong resistance to injuries, it is possible that their careers will be very short."

A Miami reporter was given the right to ask a question, and excitedly took the microphone and asked:

"General, you were dunked on by Tang four times tonight and fell to his feet eight times. What's the one thing you want to say about that?"

"Fuck you!"

David Robinson swallowed his most heartfelt words and replied casually, "He's great, and I wish him a great career."

Seeing the superstar center's good temper, the reporter smiled awkwardly, too embarrassed to ask any more questions that might make him feel awkward.

Meanwhile, at the Heat's press conference.

A reporter asked Tang Bei, "Tang, the Hornets played against the Knicks on the road. The game is over, 103-110, a loss of 7 points."

Larry Johnson racked up 28 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists, shooting 43.5% from the field. What are your thoughts on that?

Tang Bei said, "I am very grateful that the Hornets selected me with the second pick, and I hope they will do better and better."

Although he wanted to say something polite, given his limited experience, his expressionless face revealed his true attitude towards the Hornets.

The next reporter asked, "Tang, number 12, the Heat are playing the Suns at home. Do you have anything to say to Barkley?"

Tang Bei smiled and said, "Then can you ask him for me if he wants to fall again?"

"Ha ha……"

The reporters below burst out laughing.

After the press conference, Zhang Heli caught up with Tang Bei and said, "Liu Yumin, the director of the basketball department, just called me, Tang Bei. She asked me to ask you about your thoughts on joining the national team."

"what?"

Tang Bei paused, startled.

Zhang Heli stopped and said, "Actually, they've been considering it. They didn't know much about the NBA and your level before, otherwise they would have recruited you before the Olympics. Maybe then you could have made it into the world's top eight."

Tang Bei continued walking forward, asking, "I don't understand, Coach Zhang, what kind of unit is the Basketball Department?"

Zhang Heli explained, "National team competitions include the Olympics, the World Championships, and the Asian Championships, all of which take place during the NBA offseason."

There was the Asian Championships in 93, the World Championships in 94, another Asian Championships in 95, and the Olympics in 96.

"The Olympics!"

Tang Bei certainly wanted to participate in the Olympics, but he didn't really want to compete in other events.

There are 82 games in the NBA regular season alone, and even more if you make it to the playoffs. So many games will put a strain on your body.

He didn't know these things before, but after the treasure chest gave him a hundred heart-nourishing pills, he realized that his body was being heavily depleted, which could not only cause injury but also affect his lifespan.

Zhang Heli noticed that Tang Bei remained silent, which puzzled him.

According to his values, Tang Bei should be very happy to be called up by the national team, but now it seems that he is not so happy.

But when he thought about Tang Bei's background, which wasn't part of the system, he understood somewhat.

Especially after the Olympics, when he heard that Ma Jian, the national team's main power forward, had left the team without permission and gone to the United States, he felt that the thinking of today's young people was very different from that of his generation.

The athletes of that generation valued selfless dedication, but the mindset of today's young athletes is not so pure.

"Coach Zhang, is it okay if I only play in the Olympics?" Tang Bei asked at this moment.

"Only competing in the Olympics?"

Zhang Heli paused for a moment, then said, "There are too many NBA games. Your situation is different from that of domestic athletes. It's really not realistic for you to play in every national team game. Your body can't function without rest."

At this point, he added, "Alright, I'll pass that on to Director Liu and see what their decision is."

"it is good."

Tang Bei nodded.

Being able to join the national team is a huge affirmation for him.

Putting aside the collective honor, the Olympic Games platform is enormous, attracting worldwide attention, which is extremely important to him, and he certainly can't let such an opportunity slip by.

The NBA accelerated its global expansion after the Olympics, primarily because the Dream Team participated in the Barcelona Olympics.

Specifically, Michael Jordan's global influence skyrocketed after the Olympics, and his shoe sales followed suit, all because of the Olympics' impact.

Another reason he had was that if he achieved a certain accomplishment through the Olympics, he could obtain a treasure from the treasure chest.

(End of this chapter)