NBA: The Basketball Miracle

Chapter 514 514: A Script Torn Apart?

Check out my new fanfic.

12th man to Cricket legend. It's a cricket book for cricket lovers only.

Please give it a go 😊

***

On Monday, April 23, 2007, Head Coach Don Nelson became the hot topic among commentators.

Unexpectedly, the 40-win Warriors won.

In the game that concluded last night, Dirk Nowitzki's performance was extremely poor, and the Dallas Mavericks regrettably lost with a score of 97:85.

Not many people paid attention to this game originally, as the gap between 68 wins and 40 wins was simply too large.

The two teams were not on the same level at all.

But Dirk Nowitzki proved with his performance that he was indeed a softie.

The German was completely restricted by a series of targeted Defense strategies such as fronting, aggressive double-teaming, and forcing him left or right.

In 39 minutes of play, he shot 5-of-17 from the field, 0-of-3 from beyond the arc, and 6-of-8 from the free-throw line, finishing with 16 points, 11 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, 3 blocks, and 3 turnovers.

Dirk Nowitzki, who delivered a double-double, faced intense scrutiny after the game.

The Warriors' interior only had one big man, Al Harrington, with Stephen Jackson playing power forward.

Facing such a small-ball lineup, Dirk Nowitzki failed to display his dominance on offense, and his Defense was also unremarkable.

What angered Dallas Mavericks fans the most was that at the end of the game, the bearded Baron Davis publicly mocked the predetermined MVP:

"Every player in the league knows that no one fears Dirk Nowitzki. He's excellent, but he has never reached MVP level."

"My good brothers Stephen Jackson and Matt Barnes bring a winning culture to the team. The Warriors now also have championship experience, and I will lead the team to defeat him!"

"…"

Baron Davis, dubbed a miniature version of Lee, unleashed his power against the Dallas Mavericks' backcourt, delivering a perfect stat line in last night's game:

In 44 minutes of play, he shot 11-of-20 from the field, 4-of-7 from beyond the arc, and 7-of-8 from the free-throw line, finishing with 33 points, 14 rebounds, 8 assists, 3 steals, 1 block, and 3 turnovers.

Baron Davis's attacks on the rim reminded commentators of Clay Lee's performance two days prior.

The Dallas Mavericks' Defense simply couldn't contain him.

Head Coach Don Nelson's tactics were also mentioned again:

10-of-30 from beyond the arc, a ridiculous number of attempts that only the New York Knicks in the league had.

No one mocked this proponent of the 'run and gun' offense anymore.

In just one game, Don Nelson earned respect, after all, his opponent was a team that had achieved a historic 68 wins.

Since there were only two games tonight, and the New York Knicks vs. Washington Wizards game had little suspense, when TNT, the playoff broadcaster, warmed up for the games in the afternoon, the trio was still discussing last night's "miracle."

This season, there weren't many nationally televised games or major trades, and with the New York Knicks and Dallas Mavericks achieving exaggerated records, TNT's programming suffered.

The trio simply couldn't create any excitement.

Having been stifled for almost a season, finally, something entertaining emerged.

Regardless of the subsequent outcome, Charles Barkley, who judges based on a single game, was beaming in the studio:

"I believe Head Coach Don Nelson can create a miracle. Don't forget, he is the coach who knows Dirk Nowitzki's technical characteristics best."

"Although everyone is unaware of his grievances with the Dallas Mavericks, there's no doubt that their breakup was not amicable."

"Signing Matt Barnes in the offseason and trading for Stephen Jackson were undoubtedly successful moves. They brought championship experience to the Warriors."

This was the second upset in the first-round series.

Kenny Smith also didn't want to miss this opportunity.

Rarely did he not oppose his partner.

Instead, he chuckled and added:

"I agree with Chuck. Head Coach Don Nelson is right. Modern basketball has changed."

"If Dirk Nowitzki cannot adjust in subsequent games, then he will face an awkward situation. God! I can hardly imagine such a situation occurring."

Don Nelson, who attended the press conference, briefly explained his tactical strategy, which also became the hot topic among commentators today:

"I told Bynum he needs to play like Clay Lee!"

"The Warriors just need to give him the ball; Stephen and Matt know how to cooperate. They succeeded with the New York Knicks, which is why we made the trades."

Everyone knew that the Phoenix Suns completely imitated the New York Knicks.

Head Coach Alvin Gentry copied and pasted the tactics, and the recovered Amare Stoudemire ultimately helped the team secure the second seed in the Western Conference.

Even with such good results, when interviewed, Steve Nash and Head Coach Alvin Gentry never admitted to learning from the New York Knicks.

Don Nelson was the first to openly admit to imitating, and even his honesty was surprisingly blunt.

In the studio, Ernie Johnson didn't comment much on the tactical issues.

Don Nelson was a well-known coach, so he had to maintain some prestige.

His two partners enjoyed the drama, so he could only calmly analyze:

"I think one game is hardly convincing. Don't forget the Denver Nuggets also defeated the San Antonio Spurs."

"For the upper-seeded teams, G1 might just be a probing game."

A frustrated Charles Barkley immediately interrupted his partner, continuing to speak sarcastically with a hint of meaning:

"Ernie, you should understand that truly dominant teams don't score only 89 points against a 40-win team!"

"Look at the New York Knicks. They beat the Washington Wizards by 50 points. Clay Lee destroyed the Washington Wizards' illusions in one game."

"Dirk Nowitzki should do the same. He must set the tone for the playoffs, not be limited by his opponent to fewer than 20 points."

Kenny Smith, standing by, also chuckled.

Although his old partner's statement was a bit exaggerated, he didn't object.

Instead, he cooperated by fanning the flames:

"What are you trying to say, Chuck? Are you questioning the MVP?"

The league actively promoted Dirk Nowitzki during the All-Star Game this season.

Besides Pau Gasol, he was the second European player to be named an All-Star starter.

To add drama to the playoffs, ESPN had already started promoting early:

"Clash of Historic Teams," "73 Wins vs. 68 Wins," "Revenge Match."

The Dallas Mavericks had the second-highest payroll in the league.

Mark Cuban paid $88 million for this roster, and this big-mouthed owner was always boasting on his blog.

The high luxury tax was not in vain.

The referees also favored the Dallas Mavericks.

Dirk Nowitzki almost had a perfect script.

"No, 68 wins can certainly win an award. I believe there's an issue with the MVP selection."

"While Lee no longer needs this award, the media voters are deliberately ignoring him. I believe everyone should show more respect for individual performance."

"Whoever is better should get the vote. The MVP trophy shouldn't become a tool."

Charles Barkley's remarks targeted the league's star-making efforts.

In recent years, award winners like Kevin Garnett and Tim Duncan were indeed not as dominant as Clay Lee and Shaquille O'Neal before.

Last time, Clay Lee led his team to 73 wins and won a unanimous MVP.

This time, without the novelty, they are heavily promoting another star.

Ernie Johnson would not sing a different tune and proactively ended the topic:

"Lee is only 29 years old. He is still on the rise. I believe he will achieve more honors."

"We have received news that Gilbert Arenas is still not on the active roster tonight. Head Coach Eddie Jordan said he would increase Brendan Haywood's playing time."

"This is good news for the Washington Wizards. Their rebounding should improve."

The Washington Wizards players, warming up at Madison Square Garden in the afternoon, were in low spirits.

New York reporters were already too lazy to interview them.

The sports section of the morning newspapers were all mocking the German's performance.

78:128, the Washington Wizards suffered a crushing defeat in G1.

After the game, no one made grand statements.

They knew the series was over.

The Washington Wizards' only scorer, Antawn Jamison, performed well and received the "Clay Lee Recognition Award," but most commentators still criticized this low-key core player.

In 41 minutes of play, he shot 9-of-26 from the field, 1-of-6 from beyond the arc, and 6-of-10 from the free-throw line, finishing with 25 points, 9 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, and 1 turnover.

Antawn Jamison, despite playing hard in garbage time, still couldn't save the team.

ESPN, as the broadcaster for tonight's game, didn't conduct many interviews with the Washington Wizards.

After confirming Gilbert Arenas wouldn't return, everyone waited to interview Lee, as the MVP topic had higher popularity.

Brendan Haywood only played 5 minutes in garbage time in the last game.

He originally thought the coach's decision to increase his playing time would attract more attention, but no one paid him any mind.

With a displeased expression on his dark face, Brendan Haywood looked at Antawn Jamison, who was silently practicing his shooting, and couldn't help but complain in a low voice:

"What are these reporters doing? We're playing the defending champions in the playoffs, but they're discussing that German guy."

"Antawn, you should fight for your rights, complain more. Everyone knows about the whistles in New York, you need to give them some pressure!"

The 50-point blowout loss made Antawn Jamison's bald head lose its usual luster.

Perhaps he didn't sleep well last night.

This low-key star glanced at his teammate and said sullenly:

"Complain? And then lose by 30 points? Even the Head Coach has lost confidence. I don't think this will solve the problem."

Antonio Daniels on the side remained silent.

In the last game, he shot 2-for-11 and scored 7 points from free throws.

As the team's offensive orchestrator, the crushing defeat was not without his contribution.

The chattering Brendan Haywood tried to ignite his teammates' fighting spirit, but unfortunately, no one responded, not even the usually big-mouthed Gilbert Arenas.

Ever since the crushing defeat, Gilbert Arenas hasn't mentioned a return from injury, seemingly ready to go fishing.

When the game started at 7:30 PM that night, the Washington Wizards entered their familiar game rhythm.

Antawn Jamison and DeShawn Stevenson were very decisive in their shots, but in the eyes of New York fans, these two were just blindly throwing up shots without being able to drive to the basket.

Especially DeShawn Stevenson, his clanking shots allowed the New York Knicks to seize opportunities and launch continuous fast breaks.

The Washington Wizards not only didn't slow down the game but instead ran wildly with the New York Knicks.

Their offense was simple and crude, with both players taking shots as soon as they got the ball, clanking away.

At the end of the first quarter, the score was 15:36. Head Coach Eddie Jordan's face grew darker.

The game had lost its suspense right from the start.

Antawn Jamison shot 1-for-4 for 2 points, and DeShawn Stevenson shot 1-for-6, including 1-for-3 from beyond the arc, for 3 points.

Brendan Haywood, who came off the bench, performed the best, scoring 6 points on 3-for-3 shooting with offensive putbacks and easy dunks.

Madison Square Garden was already roaring.

The weak opponents made the New York fans in attendance feel good.

During the break, they cheered happily with the DJ. Tonight was another big win.

Mike Breen and Hubie Brown were still at the ESPN commentary desk.

The old coach could only make diplomatic remarks when commenting on the game, finally unable to hold back and complaining:

"Choosing to go head-to-head with the New York Knicks was the wrong choice. The Washington Wizards have lost their game rhythm."

"6-for-23, their shooting percentage in the first quarter was terrible. The only commendable aspect was their control over turnovers."

Mike Breen had long anticipated a one-sided game.

After glancing at the box score, he chuckled and started talking about individual statistics:

"In the first game, Clay Lee only played 32 minutes and efficiently scored 41 points. He's in good form tonight, performing better from beyond the arc than in the last game, hitting two three-pointers in the first quarter alone."

"Head Coach Eddie Jordan isn't double-teaming. It now appears there might be a problem with their tactical execution."

"With a significant lead, Rajon Rondo might get more opportunities. We can look forward to the Rookie's performance."

On the New York Knicks' bench, Rajon Rondo, who was about to enter the game, felt conflicted.

This was very different from the playoffs he had envisioned.

The opponent surrendered too early.

Assistant Coach Mike Malone was still instructing the players about to enter the game.

Unlike the last game, the New York Knicks were making extensive rotations at this point.

JR Smith didn't mind such a game.

His contribution was crucial to the 50-point win in the last game.

As he adjusted his jersey, he saw Rajon Rondo looking serious and immediately called out to the Rookie:

"Watch your passing! I don't want to have to adjust after catching the ball."

In the eyes of New York fans, JR Smith was affectionately chatting with Rajon Rondo, with his arm around his shoulder, but the Rookie, who was being loudly instructed, was not in a good mood.

He nodded but said nothing.

Michael Finley's playing time was reduced in the playoffs because he planned to return to Dallas next year to share his championship experience, and the coaching staff knew they couldn't keep the veteran.

The frontcourt trio in the rotation were Tayshaun Prince, Boris Diaw, and Gadzuric.

Mike D'Antoni would have Boris Diaw play center in garbage time, and that's when Michael Finley would enter the game.

After the second quarter began, Antawn Jamison of the Washington Wizards continued to lead the team without resting.

On the first possession, when he popped out to the right wing, he faced Tayshaun Prince on the switch, caught the ball, and missed a jump shot.

The three-pointer missed, and as Rajon Rondo grabbed the long rebound, cheers erupted in the Madison Square Garden.

On the fast break, the Washington Wizards' transition Defense had problems.

Roger Mason, who came off the bench, retreated too quickly and failed to establish a defensive position at the three-point line on the left wing.

Antonio Daniels also didn't interfere with Rajon Rondo, who, after crossing midcourt, immediately found JR Smith trailing him.

JR Smith caught the ball and immediately shot it.

As the basketball swished through the net, he waved his arms in happy celebration, and the few Washington Wizards players retreating on Defense stopped in frustration.

Fortunately, Antawn Jamison responded quickly on offense, cutting along the baseline to the left block, catching the pass, and hitting a jump shot over the pursuing Boris Diaw.

With a large lead, Rajon Rondo also wanted to show off.

After Boris Diaw handed off the ball at the top of the arc and popped out, Rajon Rondo, who received the ball again, drove hard, getting past Antonio Daniels, who was defending baseline.

Although he shook off the on-ball defender, Brendan Haywood's help Defense under the basket interfered, spoiling the underhand layup, and the basketball hit Antawn Jamison's leg and went out of bounds.

Gadzuric pointed to the air at the Rookie, signaling him to pass the ball.

Rajon Rondo could only raise his hand in frustration, indicating it was his mistake.

The game continued.

The inbound pass from the baseline went to Tayshaun Prince, who used a teammate's screen to receive the ball on the right block.

A pump fake, a dribble, he faked out the defender, took a step back, and hit a jump shot, easily scoring from mid-range.

"It seems it will be very difficult for the Washington Wizards to turn the game around tonight. The young men are in excellent form."

"It is said that Coach DAntoni hasn't organized too many practices. Perhaps this is the Champion Coach's confidence!"

Mike Breen looked at Mike D'Antoni, who was sitting in his seat smiling and watching the game, and began his usual praise.

Hubie Brown noticed Head Coach Eddie Jordan was still shouting, and the old coach felt some sympathy for him:

"Facing such a rotation, the Washington Wizards don't have an absolute advantage either."

"I hope that when we return home, we will hear news of Gilbert Arenas's return from injury."

As time passed, although they brought in the starting lineup early, the Washington Wizards failed to narrow the gap.

Clay Lee officially returned with 5 minutes and 21 seconds left in the second quarter.

By halftime, the game was completely without suspense.

38:67. Madison Square Garden was in an uproar, with New York fans once again celebrating the victory prematurely.

Winning brought smiles, and the New York Knicks players naturally felt great back in the locker room.

Ron Artest didn't care about tonight's opponent.

Instead, he continued to gossip gleefully:

"Matt texted me that Don Nelson showed them Dirk Nowitzki's tape again. They are confident they can beat their opponent."

Grant Hill wasn't so malicious, nor was he interested in a one-game assessment.

He looked at Lee, who hadn't even broken a sweat, and asked curiously:

"Lee, do you think the Warriors have a chance?"

Pau Gasol and the others also became interested.

Everyone was aware of the league's propaganda.

Lee noticed everyone looking at him, shrugged, and joked:

"Tyson's arrival is to defend Tim Duncan, aren't you all aware of this?"

"..."

....

By the way, don't forget to throw power stones and leave a review to motivate me :)