NBA : Formidable Center

Chapter 66: Chapter 66: Making History, Jordan's Frustration



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The final buzzer echoed through the arena, signaling the end of the game.

The Knicks secured an emphatic victory over the Seattle SuperSonics, finishing with a score of 110:90. The home crowd trudged away into the cold Seattle night, dejected.

The highest scorer of the game was Ray Allen, who put up an impressive 29 points on 12-of-24 shooting. Unfortunately, his valiant effort was in vain, as his teammates failed to rise to the occasion.

Beyond Allen, the SuperSonics' second-highest scorer was Rashard Lewis, who managed 15 points. Only two other players reached double digits, underscoring the team's offensive struggles.

The Knicks' defense, led by Wang Song, showcased a dramatic improvement from the previous season. This was most evident to Lewis, who, despite being a perimeter-oriented forward, found his options limited by Wang's agility and defensive anticipation.

Even when Lewis tried to avoid challenging the Knicks' paint, Wang's quick lateral movements disrupted his mid- and long-range attempts. Forced to shoot from increasingly difficult positions, Lewis saw his shooting percentage plummet.

The game reached its climax when Lewis was blocked by Wang, who delivered an emphatic rejection. Wang dominated the defensive end, recording a total of six blocks in the game.

By the end of the night, Wang had racked up an extraordinary stat line: 25 points, 12 rebounds, and 6 blocks. More importantly, he made history.

Under the bright lights of KeyArena, Wang became the youngest player in NBA history to achieve a 25-point, 10-rebound, and 5-block game.

Alongside Wang's dominance, Steve Nash contributed a stellar 17-point, 12-assist double-double, cementing the Knicks' dynamic duo as a force to be reckoned with.

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**Post-Game Chaos**

As soon as the game ended, a swarm of reporters surrounded Wang, leaving the tunnel to the Knicks' locker room completely blocked.

"Sorry, Wang, I'm already in the locker room!" Nash teased as he squeezed past the mob, leaving Wang to fend for himself.

Caught off guard by the media frenzy, Wang could only smile awkwardly. Fortunately, assistant coach Herb Sendek stepped in to provide an escape route.

Meanwhile, Knicks head coach Don Chaney willingly diverted attention to himself, taking on some of the media questions and giving Wang a chance to slip away.

Back in the locker room, the atmosphere was celebratory. Teammates were already congratulating one another when Wang finally burst in.

"Wang, what happened? Why are you so flustered? Did a fan block your way?" Alan Houston asked with a smirk.

Before Wang could respond, Houston added jokingly, "If you're not into those big Western girls, let me know. I've got connections!"

Wang rolled his eyes. "Alan, I envy how carefree you are after every game."

Houston paused, processing the comment, before his face darkened in mock indignation.

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**Facing the Media**

After changing, Wang returned to the arena for the inevitable media session. Dodging reporters was futile, especially after breaking a historic record.

The media eagerly pounced as Wang began answering questions.

"Wang, congratulations on becoming the youngest player in NBA history to achieve a 25+10+5 stat line. What's your reaction to this accomplishment?" one reporter asked.

"Wait, I broke a record?" Wang feigned innocence, his wide-eyed expression convincing even the most skeptical journalists.

"I honestly don't focus on personal stats," he continued. "My only concern is helping the team win. The SuperSonics don't have a dominant center, and our offense was flowing well today. Maybe that's why I'm standing here answering your questions."

His humility masked a subtle boast, and the reporters seized on his words, interpreting them as a veiled critique of Seattle's lackluster interior presence. To the media, Wang's remark was a headline-worthy display of quiet confidence.

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**The Fallout**

The next morning, Wang's performance dominated sports headlines. His historic night, paired with his on-court heroics, captivated fans and analysts alike. Photos of Wang blocking shots and celebrating his achievements adorned the front pages of newspapers across the country.

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**Meanwhile, in New York...**

David Falk's office was uncharacteristically tense.

"Falk, are you telling me there's nothing you can do? No room for negotiation?" Michael Jordan's voice was filled with disbelief.

He tossed aside a copy of the *Seattle Sports Times*, frustration etched across his face.

"Mike, you have to understand," Falk began cautiously, "This kid isn't like other players. He's young, but he knows exactly what he wants—just like you did when you first entered the league."

Jordan said nothing, his disappointment palpable. After years of dominating the NBA, he now faced an unfamiliar challenge: being turned down.

As he moved toward the door, Falk called out, "Listen, Mike. I'll try one last time when Wang gets back. But you need to come prepared with a clear offer. No more games."

Jordan paused briefly, then left without a word, the weight of missed opportunities heavy on his shoulders.

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*(Chapter End)*


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