Chapter 615 - 615: Dizzy

On Wednesday, October 29, 2008, NBA fans could once again enjoy Clay Lee's spectacular performance on Sports Center.

This had almost become a habit.

After waking up and turning on the TV, most sports fans who wanted to watch sports news would choose ESPN from 6 AM to 9 AM.

The power of time was undoubtedly great.

After last night's opening game, the old-school commentators collectively fell silent.

A few years ago, these guys might have still pushed back, but facing the already dominant Knicks, they all chose to keep quiet.

Bill Simmons, a staunch Boston fan and well-known commentator, didn't offer his usual witty commentary after last night's opening game.

Instead, he dryly updated his blog:

"I don't know if Clay Lee's form can last an entire season."

The tide of public opinion became increasingly favorable as Lee's championship count grew.

Except for a few self-deceiving individuals, most commentators with any sense of shame became sycophants, only offering praise.

It wasn't that the haters had decreased.

Lee wasn't money, so it was impossible for everyone to like him.

It was just that he won so much that those who spoke against him became clowns, leading to no one wanting to play that role anymore.

Football started in September, October was for baseball's playoffs and World Series, and by November, the NBA's popularity began to rise again, and ESPN's programming naturally adjusted accordingly.

Fans accustomed to seeing Clay Lee dominate half of the Top 10 Plays on TV didn't react much.

They weren't professional commentators or data experts.

What they sought was good entertainment.

After enjoying excellent team play, Derrick Rose's crossovers, Greg Oden's blocks, and Kobe's dunks, from the fifth play onwards, it returned to the familiar scenes of previous years.

On a fast break, Stephon Marbury's expression was contorted, his legs pumping furiously.

In a "1-on-0" situation in the frontcourt, he attempted a one-handed slam, only to be "blood-blocked" from behind by Clay Lee, who chased him down and jumped for a mid-air block.

After grabbing an offensive rebound, Perkins was "stirring up trouble" in the paint, pushing Chandler aside, preparing for a second-chance layup, but was tragically pinned and blocked from behind by Lee's help Defense.

In transition, facing a triple-team, Lee dribbled with his left hand, faked a layup, then faked in mid-air before passing behind his back to a trailing Prince, who received the ball and threw down a one-handed dunk.

Receiving the ball at the top of the arc and faking, Marbury "pounced like a hungry tiger," but lost his defensive position.

After a drive, he was faked to the floor by Lee's between-the-legs pull-back, helplessly watching a left-handed floater.

When they saw the number one play, some young fans in front of their TVs laughed aloud, many of them chuckling and cursing:

"Kevin Garnett is such a softy!"

Accompanied by Kevin Harlan's exclamations, Lee leaped high, bumping Kevin Garnett, who was preparing to secure the defensive rebound, causing him to stumble.

After pausing in mid-air, he slammed the ball into the hoop with one hand!

The highlight reel deliberately edited in what happened after the basket: a glaring Kevin Garnett was pushed out of bounds by Clay Lee, which piqued the curiosity of fans who missed the game, suggesting the opening game was quite interesting.

Fans who watched highlights and fans who watched the full game would have completely different viewing experiences.

Boston fans and New York fans who watched the game live last night would also have different feelings:

"What a crappy game! Why were we off again!"

"No one can defeat us! God-Lee taught those clowns a lesson!"

In the studio, hosts Hannah Storm and Josh Elliott smiled as they introduced last night's three games.

When they discussed the featured game, they immediately asked Grant Hill, who was beside them:

"I think fans are very curious, is shooting 36 times from beyond the arc in one game going to become the 'norm' for the Knicks?"

Hannah Storm, who had participated in many Finals broadcasts, added after her co-host's question:

"We got some data: last regular season, the Knicks averaged 28.6 three-point attempts per game, ranking first in the league. Will they continue to increase their attempts this new season?"

Hill, dressed in a black suit, showed no surprise at their questions.

Instead, he explained very professionally:

"I think this is indeed a tactical adjustment. In the past, many fans questioned why Lee, despite his high three-point percentage, didn't increase his attempts. Now the answer is before us."

"Basketball is a five-person game. When Pau Gasol is on the court, the coaching staff will certainly increase low-post tactics to ensure everyone participates in the game."

"But now the situation has changed somewhat. While his teammates' game form has not yet returned to its best, Lee has started to solve problems with individual offense, which is also the correct choice."

"30+ three-point attempts will frequently appear in the upcoming games. This is Lee's ability. He always manages to put the ball in the basket."

Although Josh Elliott also followed the NBA, he wasn't deeply knowledgeable about statistics, and the prepared data surprised him greatly.

Seeing Hill's "this is normal" expression, he couldn't help but remind him again:

"Clay Lee attempted 14 three-pointers, while the entire Celtics team, the whole team combined, only attempted 14 three-pointers. I think many people, like me, will be shocked."

The director again showed a comparison of the two teams' three-point shooting statistics:

15 of 36, the Knicks' three-point percentage reached 41.7%.

3 of 14, the Celtics' three-point percentage was only 21.4%.

In three quarters, the Green Army was shot full of holes, and with the Knicks getting stronger in the 4th quarter, the final score was fixed at 91:117.

After the game, Head Coach Rivers's many moments of wide-mouthed astonishment during the game were edited by TNT and are currently seeing a continuous increase in views on YouTube.

"If a player can shoot 50% from beyond the arc, what reason is there to stop him from shooting?"

"I don't think Clay Lee has returned to his best shooting form yet. Some of his half-court long-range three-pointers were off. As the season progresses, I believe his form will get better and better!"

Grant Hill showed a proper smile, as if he had expected this situation.

Hearing this answer, Josh Elliott shrugged and joked again in front of the camera:

"Regarding three-pointers, I agree with Head Coach Rivers!"

The studio atmosphere became cheerful.

This was a meme that emerged after last night's opening game.

In the post-game press conference, Head Coach Rivers did not admit to being unprepared, but instead made an excuse:

"I've never seen Clay Lee play like this!"

"."

When the coach of their own team said this with an admiring tone, Boston fans who read the reports after the game were instantly furious.

They were blasting "Coach of the Year (COY)" all over the Reddit forum and social media.

The game between the Lakers and the Trail Blazers also ended in three quarters, 75:98.

Greg Oden played only 10 minutes, and Brandon Roy was completely suppressed by Mamba throughout the game.

Duncan's performance was unremarkable, getting a double-double while dishing out 6 assists.

Kobe Bryant was 8 for 17, efficiently scoring 23 points, and the Lakers' Triangle Offense was becoming increasingly fluid.

The Milwaukee Bucks and the Chicago Bulls were in a close contest until the 4th quarter.

The highly anticipated Derrick Rose had an excellent debut, scoring 11 points on 3 of 9 shooting, and also adding 9 assists.

Fans who watched the show on TV didn't react much to this.

It was still the same as before, mostly Lee's solo show.

After the three opening games, Lee wasn't the most talked about.

Lindsey Hunter, who had officially retired, suddenly became popular because a playoff interview of his was dug up by fans:

"The entire Eastern Conference, for so many years, has been playing basketball games with Clay Lee. Now I'm not playing anymore. I want to go back to my family. Basketball has only brought me pain!"

"."

Spreading constantly from the Reddit Detroit Pistons forum, more and more fans agreed with this statement, with everyone believing Lindsey Hunter was right.

This outdated veteran gained widespread recognition after retirement because of a single quote, and there's a trend of him becoming even more "popular" in the new season.

If nothing unexpected happens, he will soon be invited to shows.

In a way, Lee helped this veteran find re-employment.

Isn't this a way of respecting Black players?

At 9 AM, Lee had just finished his morning workout at his home in Manhattan.

Ivanka, who was preparing for her birthday, was overly enthusiastic.

After the intense confrontation, she still seemed full of energy.

She snuggled back into Lee's arms, her skin flushed, and Ivanka took deep breaths, unable to resist kissing him again.

Melinda, returning from the bathroom, was only wearing a nightgown.

Seeing the dazed blonde girl, she slowly pulled open the curtains, causing the other party to exclaim before covering her body.

Lee glanced at the time, kneaded Ivanka who was still squirming, and then waved to Melinda, who was watching the show.

The latter quickly returned to the bed.

"After your birthday, have you thought about how to spend Halloween?"

In previous years, everyone didn't really care about this holiday, but with so many little ones in the house, they decided to celebrate it properly this year for the sake of ceremony.

Melinda, leaning in his arms, blinked her big eyes, not caring about her exposed, round, fair skin.

Seeing Ivanka's somewhat expectant gaze, she teased,

"How about a special ball?"

Ivanka, propping herself up, blushed even more.

This was actually her idea.

After working for half a year, she wanted to try something new.

At times, she was a bit reserved, but she also looked forward to those little games.

After her fair skin was held again, Ivanka squeezed into Lee's arms, changing the subject to hide her anticipation, and asked softly, looking up,

"Darling, are there any more people to invite?"

Donald planned to hold a grand birthday party for his beloved daughter this year at his beloved Florida estate.

The main purpose was to show off his wealth and introduce new family members.

In mid-September, Forbes released its latest list, with Bill Gates returning to the top with a net worth of $57 billion, while Clay Lee quietly climbed to 86th place.

In the wealth snapshot as of August 29th, Lee's personal wealth was estimated to be $8 billion.

This was after the devaluation of his Peninsula Manor.

If it were according to the market conditions of previous years, the number would be even higher.

In fact, the "wealth feast" was not over yet.

In mid-November, after the hearing, as long as they followed the federal pace and harvested European wealth once more, personal assets would continue to rise.

Currently, Axe Capital is still accumulating funds, not only in preparation for purchasing excellent CDS but also because the time has come to "fire" at British banks.

Interestingly, after the list was published, Donald was squeezed out.

With a minimum net worth threshold of $1.3 billion, Forbes believed his assets had shrunk by more than half, infuriating the old man.

Not everyone likes to be on the list.

Low-key billionaires never flaunt their wealth, while some people need this list, after all, this is America, and dollars sometimes means respect.

"You can invite more of your friends. I don't think he'll mind."

Hearing Lee's words, Ivanka became even happier.

The immense wealth had made her feel "dizzy" these past few months.

In fact, she had no say in this year's birthday party.

Donald planned to invite old friends and Donkey Party members.

His beloved daughter's friends were not in the plan.

Looking at the excited, bare-bodied girl preparing invitations, Lee guiltily stroked his chin.

He had originally intended to cheer her up, but then he remembered that Georgina might be invited.

Bloomberg had the largest increase in wealth, $20 billion, ranking 8th.

The old man would always try to probe him when he had the chance, but his obedient daughter never admitted anything, yet she would occasionally flirt with Lee.

Melinda chuckled, looking at Ivanka's tall and voluptuous figure, then turned her watery big eyes and whispered in Lee's ear.

Hearing the "bad idea," Lee couldn't help but kiss the thoughtful, big-breasted girl fiercely, holding her in his arms, and said with a sigh,

"It would be great if Kim could come back. We need to prepare a private jet. American Express's service isn't suitable for her."

After giving a speech at the Republican Party convention, Kim began preparing for the New Mexico House of Representatives election.

Deciding which district to go to was important, as it could affect her development in the coming years.

As they talked about future plans, Melinda's voice also became clearer.

She proactively embraced Lee and whispered softly,

"You've done well enough. This much capital is enough to support a future gubernatorial campaign."

Thinking about the situation in his previous "hometown," Lee didn't say anything.

This was completely unfamiliar territory, but fortunately, he had some support behind him.

Ivanka, immersed in her wealth, completely forgot about her beloved son until Lee picked her up and carried her into the bathroom.

Caught between the two of them, the young mother finally reacted:

"I forgot to prepare a dress for Cyrus!"

"..."

On Thursday, October 30th, the New York Knicks played their first away game of the new season against the neighboring 76ers.

Although the journey was short, it didn't stop Rookie Chalmers from serving his boss.

In his first professional game, he played 6 minutes and "controlled the team" in the latter half of the fourth quarter.

As long as Rajon Rondo leaves next season, Chalmers is confident he can squeeze into the regular rotation, and he is incredibly excited about it!

Although Chalmers had personally experienced Lee's extraordinary individual strength during offseason training, the Rookie was still greatly shocked to see the opponent collapse due to his individual play in the opening game.

Waking up before 6 AM, Gary Neal, who had been disturbed, watched the Rookie carefully pick out four oranges, feeling speechless.

He muffled his voice and said,

"I remember you were very against this during the Summer League!"

Chalmers felt that squeezing orange juice with a manual juicer was a skill.

Hearing his roommate's words, he immediately vowed,

"No, I'm just thanking Lee for taking care of the Rookie!"

"33 minutes, 42 points. This is simply God playing basketball. Playing alongside Lee, maybe I can also become a superstar."

Most of the New York Knicks veterans chose single rooms, while Rookies chose double rooms to integrate into the team.

Although Gary Neal knew his roommate was a sycophant, he still felt speechless at this moment.

Gary Neal watched the Rookie carefully carry the tray and leave, unable to help but complain,

"The Rookie is crazy."

At 6:30 AM, Chalmers knocked on Lee's door on time.

Seeing his boss shirtless and holding a newspaper, he delivered the juice and showed a look of remorse:

"Sorry, Boss, I shouldn't have forgotten the newspaper!"

"Taste it. I also prepared sugar and honey."

The Philadelphia Inquirer was delivered by Patrick Ewing Jr.

Although Lee didn't make things difficult for his "big nephew," Ewing Jr. was very conscientious and voluntarily took on the job of carrying bags and delivering newspapers.

"Don't be nervous, Mario! As long as you can deliver qualified stats within a limited time, your playing time will always increase."

"I understand Rondo's choice. After all, if he stays here for the next few years, he's destined not to get a starting spot. You know, he's not a combo guard."

"Coach will give you more opportunities, but you have to perform better in practice. Coach DAntoni needs a reason, you have to speak with data!"

Hearing Lee's "guidance," Rookie Chalmers handed over the large glass of orange juice with both hands, a happy expression on his face.

His future was bright.

"I understand, Boss. Any instructions for tonight's game?"

Lee, drinking the orange juice in big gulps, showed a satisfied expression.

After putting down the glass, he saw the Rookie's expectant look, patted his shoulder, and said in a relaxed tone,

"Remember to warm up early. The game will quickly lose suspense. Perhaps in the fourth quarter, the fans will start leaving."

"..."

With less than 10 minutes until 7 PM, the 76ers home commentator, Marc Zumoff, was in a bad mood.

Losing to the Toronto Raptors last night, the arrival of "Captain" didn't seem to have changed the team.

"14 of 23 from the field, 7 of 14 from three-point range, 7 of 7 from the free-throw line! In the opening game, Clay Lee scored 42 points, 4 rebounds, 10 assists, 2 steals, 2 blocks, and 2 turnovers in just 33 minutes!"

"Tonight, our interior Defense will face a huge test. I think Philadelphia fans, like me, are all looking forward to a victory."

His tone revealed bitterness.

Since Allen Iverson joined the team in 1996, the 76ers had never won against the New York Knicks.

The attendance rate already explained the problem.

The game was about to begin, and some front-row seats were still empty.

Although the team had new players, ticket sales had still declined.

After the game officially began, in the first possession, Lee easily made a three-pointer off a pick-and-roll against "Captain."

Then, Dalembert committed a turnover, and the New York Knicks launched a fast break.

The familiar feeling made commentator Marc Zumoff "dizzy."

Seeing Lee on a fast break, he instinctively said,

"The 76ers need someone to step up."

....

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