Chapter 604 - 604: Jealousy and Respect (4783 words)

On July 21, 2008, a large number of sports reporters gathered at the University of Las Vegas after the United States Mens National Basketball Team officially announced its closed scrimmage.

Although not open to the public, reporters were allowed to cover the scrimmage, which primarily involved playing against a select team.

For this, USA Basketball nominated 10 young NBA players.

Among this year's Rookies, only Derek Rose and OJ Mayo were selected.

The rest of the players were also familiar names to fans.

The backcourt players included Rajon Rondo of the New York Knicks, Rodney Stuckey of the Detroit Pistons, and Kevin Martin of the Sacramento Kings.

The frontcourt players included Andre Iguodala of the 76ers, Kevin Durant and Jeff Green of the Thunder, Al Horford of the Atlanta Hawks, and LaMarcus Aldridge of the Portland Trail Blazers.

JR Smith was originally on the big roster, but he was in contract negotiations.

Old Smith worried about his son getting injured, so he politely declined the training camp, citing fatigue.

Coach Krzyzewski was very dissatisfied with the World Championship loss.

He believed the team had more internal problems.

The success in the Americas Championship led him to praise Kobe, and this time, he confirmed the captain's personnel early.

Jason Kidd arrived at the training camp just in time, spending the weekend in Las Vegas mingling with everyone.

Old Kidd wasn't really concerned about the captaincy.

Instead, he was more interested in participating in the Dallas Mavericks' construction.

After Coach Rick Carlisle took over the team, the Dallas Mavericks began an 'internal cleansing.'

Spending more money was out of the question.

Getting rid of the internal mole who partied during the playoffs was the top priority.

Mark Cuban brought in Jose Barea from New York, who had an impressive performance in the NBA Finals.

This was actually the player's personal choice, but the successful poaching still made the outspoken owner quite pleased.

The day before training camp began, on Sunday, Cuban published an article on his blog, largely calling for the NBA to impose more luxury taxes on super teams!

Last season, the Dallas Mavericks' salary expenditure exceeded 100 million US dollars, but their luxury tax wasn't as high as the New York Knicks'.

This public attack immediately stirred up a hornet's nest again.

James Dolan, when negotiating with the NBA, was actually very professional, preferring to cite data and advocating for 'transparency.'

Of course, the reason the curly-haired owner was so confident was primarily because the New York Knicks were built through the draft, which is actually quite extraordinary, as most NBA players' careers last less than 4 years.

The NBA actually encourages this development model.

After all, players can theoretically earn more money only if they stay with their original team, and more money means more luxury tax.

Cuban's proposal was undoubtedly aimed at the New York Knicks, as no other team in the NBA has a payroll exceeding $100 million.

Some small teams planning to fill their minimum salary cap also seemed to agree with this proposal, which led to several columns in the New York Times this morning vehemently criticizing this shameless attitude:

"Why can't other teams cultivate championship players? Why can't they establish a true winning culture?"

"They only want to make money, and now they even want to profit without effort through league subsidies!"

"The New York Knicks make huge contributions to the NBA every year. We only develop players we draft. Those teams with poor records should collectively reflect."

"..."

If following normal development trends, the New York Knicks should theoretically have fallen into the "mid-level contract trap," but after waiting a few years, the players' performance has instead gotten better and better, even playing with more ease.

Several meetings have been held in Orlando in recent years, basically with Dolan and Cuban exchanging sarcastic remarks.

The two had previously co-proposed adding rules, but ever since the Dallas Mavericks' crushing defeat in the NBA Finals, Cuban broke down, and the subsequent 'Black Eight' completely cost him face, turning him into a 'joke.'

Whoever spends money gets privileges!

The Dallas Mavericks can complain about the Houston Rockets using game footage and turn the tables in the playoffs.

The New York Knicks can also create an undefeated home record, turning Madison Square Garden into a true devil's home court.

This year, Cuban provoked again, but James Dolan did not respond at length as in previous years, simply tweeting a brief reply:

"Wow!"

If a special clause were to be introduced targeting one team, the Dolan Family would likely sue the NBA directly.

To monopolize the New York sports market, they could even disrupt New York State's plans.

In recent years, not many NBA teams have paid luxury tax.

In fact, it's been getting fewer and fewer. ESPN released a data report after this year's free agency began:

"For the 2008-09 season, it is estimated that no more than 10 teams will have total salaries exceeding the luxury tax line."

It was already late July, and there were no 'big fish' in the free agency market.

Rookies had all received contracts, and most teams seemed to be in 'lying flat' development.

Dirk Nowitzki was still working hard for Olympic qualification after returning to the Germany team, while Kidd, having entered training camp, wasn't as busy.

He even had a 'watching the show' mentality.

At 9 AM, the Thomas & Mack Center began to liven up.

Chandler and Prince appeared together, standing with their hands on their hips beside Kidd, watching the situation on the training court:

"It's starting again? Honestly, I somewhat admire Kobe's choice!"

Chandler, with a beard, watched the ongoing one-on-one, again expressing his respect.

Prince was the same, without the 'watching the show' mood of a few days ago, saying with emotion:

"Perhaps the Head Coach thought of this long ago."

Among those in training camp, Kobe got up the earliest, trained the hardest, and actively communicated with the coaching staff every day, demonstrating his leadership qualities through his actions.

Of course, some players were unconvinced.

Kobe's approach to this was simple: one-on-one.

If they could consistently beat him, he would give up his position.

Initially, Carmelo Anthony made a splash, winning the one-on-one duel, but winning on the first day didn't mean he would always win.

Kobe quickly regained his face and won more and more.

Among the Rookie players, Durant also performed well, but facing Kobe's continuous challenges, he eventually lost and then no longer participated in this activity.

Now it was the fourth match between the recovered Wade and Kobe.

Their confrontation was intense, and the sweat on their bodies indicated this wasn't the first round.

In these past few days, LeBron James hadn't participated in the 'captaincy battle,' choosing instead to cheer on his good brothers.

As Wade released the ball, he immediately started a countdown:

"Five, Four"

Wade received the ball in the left elbow area and chose to face the basket.

After continuous jab steps with his left foot, he suddenly released the ball with his right hand, then accelerated with full force, gaining most of a body length, and drove forcefully past Kobe into the paint.

To the sound of his good brother's countdown, Wade stopped abruptly, exerted force, bumped Kobe away, and then stepped back, drifting to the right-rear as he jumped and shot.

Wade, transformed into a tank, was the most formidable competitor Kobe had faced these past few days.

They had truly ignited, and as the ball flew through the air, Wade called out "foul," saying the opponent hit his wrist.

Seeing the basketball clang off the rim, Kobe glared at Wade and said fiercely:

"Don't complain like a softie!"

"Nigga, you can only interfere with me by fouling."

Wade retorted, while Anthony on the sideline was laughing beside James.

In a one-on-one, he actually had a huge advantage, but Kobe seemed to have a great obsession with the captaincy, and he had no interest in repeatedly accepting challenges.

"That's it, Bro! We all support you, teach him a good lesson!"

Anthony egged them on with a grin, and Chris Paul began to 'strategize' for Wade.

Wade was the representative for the group, helping them pass a lot of boring time.

When Billups and Michael Redd appeared in the training facility, the two still hadn't decided a winner.

Howard was also grinning, shouting and explaining the 'game' in front of the Rookie players:

"I like Kobe's elbow! But the power doesn't seem to compare to Lee's."

"Oh! Shit! Flash broke through the Defense, he's too strong! This guy regained his strength through the Speed Force!"

Before the reporters entered, everyone let loose, watching Kobe and Wade continue their 'battle.'

They couldn't decide a winner even when the coaching staff appeared.

Although they kept missing shots, it was an incredibly exciting spectacle for everyone.

With the 'core technology' applied, Wade's condition was frighteningly good.

Not only did his body become stronger, but his reaction speed and explosiveness also seemed to have improved slightly.

No one would underestimate such progress.

For gifted athletes, even a small step forward is an extraordinary achievement.

The morning primarily consisted of video analysis and 'heart-to-heart' talks.

Coach Krzyzewski was very satisfied with the current team atmosphere, and Kobe had taken on the responsibility of leadership.

For sports reporters, they were more anticipating whether conflicts would arise between Kobe and Rajon Rondo today.

It wasn't until the 'heart-to-heart' session began that they realized they had unearthed another big story.

Everyone, dressed in training gear, was seated.

Coach Krzyzewski, standing up, saw everyone looking at him and immediately said loudly:

"I know conflicts always arise between players, but in my opinion, that's not a problem. We are exceptionally talented, yet we haven't achieved success in recent years. Clearly, our mentality has an issue."

"Before the closed training begins, you can speak freely. I want to understand your deepest, most truthful thoughts."

"After this meeting, we will unite, undergo closed training, and then face the Canadian National Team, before heading to Macau before the Olympic Games begin."

Sitting in the front row were Kobe and LeBron James, among others, while the back row held the low-key Kidd and Prince.

Wade was the first to speak, his strong physique making him even more confident:

"I've experienced losing twice, and we played like shit back then!"

"Lack of discipline, lack of focus, and even complaining to each other. This is not the United States Team I expect. I hope everyone can focus on Defense."

"The team's talent and depth allow us to pressure opponents full-court. When they miss shots, we punish them with fast breaks. I don't want to frequently experience half-court offense anymore. Basketball has changed!"

LeBron James immediately took over, as a fast-break expert, he fully agreed with his good brother's basketball philosophy.

The Cavaliers played this way, and he was very accustomed to a game strategy with a lot of transition offense:

"Look at the players here! We possess such outstanding talent! As long as we unite, there's no reason we should lose!"

"No more excuses. Defense, fast break. We're going to use our talent to dominate the world."

Exchanging glances with his good brother, James appeared full of confidence.

As long as the game entered the rhythm he excelled at, he could easily lead the entire team.

It no longer mattered who the captain was; anyway, the "LeBron Gang" within the United States Mens National Basketball Team had just as many members as the "New York faction."

LeBron believed he could take over with his actions and become the most dazzling star of this Olympic Games!

Most players from the Eastern Conference were deeply influenced by the New York Knicks.

Their fast breaks and three-pointers left a profound impression on them, and young players continued to grow in such an environment.

In contrast, players from the Western Conference didn't have any particular feelings.

Watching videos was ultimately different from experiencing it firsthand.

Anthony didn't immediately agree, but Kobe, with a serious expression, offered his opinion:

"I agree with these points. If the game enters a stalemate, I am willing to take responsibility."

"We must have a killer mentality. As long as we're on the court, we have to go all out, completely kill our opponents, and even destroy them psychologically!"

"I came to the United States Mens National Basketball Team to do just that!"

Howard chuckled softly from behind.

Kobe, briefly interrupted, simply paused and then calmly stated:

"I know some of you are jealous of my achievements, but God witnessed my efforts!"

"I don't want to talk about these things with players who haven't experienced the NBA Finals. Your understanding of basketball is still superficial. The most important thing on the court is the mental confrontation!"

"You don't like me being captain? Then come and defeat me. Basketball doesn't lie! I am the best player!"

Kobe's voice started low, but by the end, he was practically shouting.

He then turned to look at everyone, and for a moment, the media room was silent.

No one refuted him.

Those who secretly mocked Kobe actually knew that among the backcourt players in the NBA, besides Lee, Kobe was the strongest.

Speaking ill of someone behind their back is often a manifestation of jealousy.

After all, most players in the NBA cannot receive the same attention as Kobe.

This is what a superstar is.

There are always people discussing them.

Every player expressed their views, and the surrounding sports media became increasingly excited.

Captain America Kobe displayed leadership qualities!

Many reporters had high expectations for the scrimmage held in the afternoon.

Kobe's speech made them feel invigorated.

This United States Team truly seemed different.

However, to everyone's surprise, less than three minutes into the game, LeBron twisted his ankle and left the court to rest.

As Wade came in as a substitute, Kobe moved to the small forward position, partnering with Bosh and Howard in the frontcourt.

Old Kidd was excellent at seizing opportunities, but as the game time passed, the Rookie Rajon Rondo on the opposing team performed even more brilliantly.

"Screen for OJ!"

"Andre, faster!"

"Shoot, big man! That's an open shot!"

"Al, go to the three-point line. Good job! Perfect screen!"

Under Rajon Rondo's loud command, the Rookies gradually loosened up and, relying on excellent offensive spacing, slowly tied the score.

Derek, sitting on the bench, was a bit frustrated.

Due to knee inflammation, the Chicago Bulls did not allow him to play.

Seeing his teammates' brilliant performances, he could only enthusiastically wave his towel.

OJ Mayo was initially suppressed, but as the quality of his teammates' screens improved, he moved flexibly under direction, and his shooting percentage gradually increased.

Durant, playing at power forward, also showed his super scorer side.

Several isolation plays and transition attacks made the surrounding sports reporters' eyes light up.

When OJ Mayo popped out to the left wing and hit a contested three-pointer over the switching Kobe, the Rookies were screaming wildly, and a liberated OJ Mayo jumped and shouted taunts:

"You're not Michael Jordan! Clay Lee is the best player!"

Clearly, OJ Mayo had also watched this year's NBA Finals.

This was the New York fans' favorite taunt, which made Kobe glare in anger on the spot.

If it weren't for the Rookies continuously losing defensive rebounds in the final moments, the "Dream Team" might have faced defeat in this closed practice game.

After nearly an hour, when the game ended, a masked Rajon Rondo continuously high-fived everyone.

Losing in this manner also annoyed him a bit, but the roster configuration indeed lacked big men:

"Playing the right way, we can beat them!"

"Jealous? Some people are talking nonsense. I have two rings."

Prince secretly shook his head from a seat on the other side.

While Kobe's words sounded good, his efficiency was generally average.

Having grown accustomed to Lee's daily performance, he somewhat understood Rajon Rondo's thoughts.

Chris Paul was also talking with Jason Kidd.

He also couldn't stand Rajon Rondo showing off.

Only Durant appeared the calmest.

After coming off the court, he pulled out his phone, icing his leg while scrolling through Twitter and browsing Facebook.

Seeing his goddess post a photo of afternoon tea with the Olsen Sisters, Durant immediately logged into his secondary account and left a comment, typing rapidly with both hands:

"You are the most beautiful."

Rajon Rondo was still immersed in the game.

On the opposing side, Wade performed the best, easily scoring 20 points.

At this moment, he was pulling Andre Iguodala aside to share defensive experience.

Thinking of Durant's physique, he immediately turned and suggested:

"Kevin, you can participate in more help Defense! Your switching speed also needs to be faster. We need to make that guy take more jump shots!"

"Yeah! You're right."

Durant, snapping out of his thoughts, looked up and responded simply.

In fact, after the team moved, they didn't want him to play in the Olympic Games.

Next season, he would be the main ticket seller, so for his health, the practice game was just a formality.

After scrolling through Twitter messages again, Durant didn't see any personal updates related to Lee, which made him feel relieved.

His goddess was being well taken care of!

It was a rare Monday where the "family gathering" was canceled, and Lee spent the entire day resting at Peninsula Manor.

Scarlett, who had recovered quickly postpartum, invited her plastic sisters to pass the time, and the three Olsen Sisters gladly accepted.

After the photo session, the four began playing Texas Hold'em.

The garden was well-maintained, and looking out from under the parasol, one could even see the sea, which significantly improved Mary-Kate Olsen's mood.

"Clarence is truly adorable. What are your plans for the future?"

Since her sister came to New York for college, the Olsen Sisters, who had regained control of Dualstar Company, spent more and more time in New York.

They had been hanging out with succubi since 2004, so they had watched the little ones grow up.

Krysten Ritter, wearing only a white camisole and shorts, looked at the curious expression on Mary's face and lazily replied:

"I don't know. I'm too lazy to think about those things. Anyway, I have more money than I can spend. My parents, however, hope to take care of Clarence."

Scarlett, on the other hand, was wrapped up tightly.

While playing cards, she didn't forget to complain.

With The Dark Knight recently released, she knew her plastic sisters were thinking about the death of their close friend Heath Ledger again:

"Alyce is always like that. I hope they can go to the best universities and then manage businesses. Being a celebrity is the worst choice!"

"You can also consider a different life. Instead of making movies, you can invest."

Ashley Olsen, wearing the same black printed T-shirt as her sister, rolled her eyes at her plastic sisters.

The two only regained control of the company at 18, and it had only been a few years.

They were still in a puppet state.

"We don't have that much money, and we don't want to act. I heard that Harvey Weinstein is having some problems with the distribution of The Reader."

It seemed the gossip was quite scandalous. Ashley Olsen involuntarily lowered her voice and whispered, adding:

"Apparently, he harassed the family of director Pollack before he passed away!"

"Oh! He truly is a scumbag!"

Scarlett couldn't help but glare.

The moment she heard the news, she imagined a bunch of terrifying scenarios.

Krysten Ritter also glared, having also fantasized about some forbidden plots.

The two sisters continued to add.

Since New York Minute flopped, they no longer acted, but they remained keen on Hollywood gossip, and these tidbits were one way to pass the time.

Unlike the twin sisters, 19-year-old Elizabeth Olsen was still a bit naive.

At this moment, dressed in a tennis outfit, she chattered behind Lee, with the elderly dog Happy by her side.

"Will you attend the Marvel party? Lee, you really should go to the Olympic Games. I also want to visit Beijing."

"I read the Iron man comic books. They're not as good as the movie. But the teachers at school all think iron man shouldn't succeed."

After playing tennis all afternoon, Elizabeth Olsen was still full of energy.

At this moment, she was sharing her daily life. iron man was expected to break 200 million in global box office, and Marvel was about to hold a celebration.

"I will attend the board activities. If you're interested, your sister has an invitation."

"Every year I need to rest. Stop reading the New York gossip newspapers."

Some New York newspapers wrote about Lee as "inhuman"—having infinite stamina, never getting injured, and even being eternally young—which forced him to grow some stubble to make himself look older.

Having officially moved to New York for almost a year, Elizabeth Olsen attended parties with her sisters and, after getting thoroughly acquainted, became no different from an ordinary young person.

She tried to squeeze next to Lee but was separated by the elderly dog Happy.

The husky's natural smile seemed to mock the young girl, and soon the dog was chased away, running wildly.

When Lee came to the four, they were still enthusiastically gossiping, complaining about a certain actress who almost slept with the entire crew to get ahead.

"Ladies, what would you like for dinner? No need to consider Scarlett."

Hearing Lee's voice, Ashley Olsen immediately turned and smiled.

After stating her request, a different smile also appeared on Mary-Kate Olsen's face.

Not noticing her sisters' state, Elizabeth Olsen was still calling out loudly from behind, reminding them not to forget Happy.

The pleasant day seemed to be coming to an end.

(Ashley Olsen)

(Mary-Kate Olsen)

(Elizabeth Olsen)

The night at Peninsula Manor was very quiet.

The young girl, who had played tennis all afternoon, went to bed early and only woke up groggily after midnight to get water.

Looking at the dim light on the third floor, Elizabeth Olsen, wearing a camisole nightgown, inexplicably sobered up.

She instinctively tiptoed upstairs, and some unusual sounds made her heart race.

In the huge master bedroom, a naked Ashley Olsen was being "attacked" by her sisters.

Scarlett, holding a DV, seemed to have transformed into a director at that moment.

Elizabeth Olsen took one look and immediately turned away, bumping into Lee in the dim environment in a panic.

Then, a warm sensation appeared in her ear:

"This is our little secret."

"Oh."

....

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