NBA: Miracle Workers

Chapter 247 "I am AMVP!" (7000 words chapter)
On January 2002, 1, after four games a week, the Knicks had another easy schedule.

At the beginning of the game that night, New York fans in Madison Square Garden shouted in unison:
“Overrated!”

After experiencing a defeat at home in Philadelphia, Allen Iverson's mentality exploded again when he came to New York.

The more shots he made, the louder the fans screamed. Without the home whistle, it became more and more difficult for Iverson to score against the zone defense under high-intensity confrontation.

The disadvantages of small players are fully exposed, and the 76ers' low production beyond the three-point line makes the Knicks' defense shrink smaller and smaller.

When Iverson broke through along the baseline and was knocked to the floor by Artest, no one sympathized with him, only the fans at the scene booed and laughed.

The 76ers took too many free throws in the last game. When they return home, they naturally have to regain face.

Even the Knicks' role players didn't care about the scoring champion. After receiving a flagrant foul, Artest even pulled his jersey and shouted excitedly.

After making mistakes, making mistakes, being counterattacked, and losing rebounds, Larry Brown on the sidelines felt his interest waned when he saw the completely collapsed team. He no longer asked for a timeout and allowed the players to play blindly.

In order to show respect, the Knicks did not replace most of the main players as long as Iverson was on the court, which allowed the joyful atmosphere in Madison Square Garden to continue until the end of the game.

74:104, the Knicks defeated their opponents wildly and ushered in their 5th consecutive victory!

出场43分钟，25中6，15分3篮板7助攻2抢断4失误，艾弗森彻底迷失
The worse the opponent performed, the happier the New York fans were. When Iverson walked to the tunnel, the shouts of "overrated" couldn't stop at all.

Seeing Iverson angrily yelling and scolding in response, the cheers became even louder for a while. Everyone likes stars who react. It's boring to play in a muffled voice like Duncan.

As if amusing themselves, the players on both sides of the tunnel were shouting louder and louder. When Mutombo pulled Iverson away, someone was still shouting loudly:

"You stole your place in the All-Star Game! Bad team brush!"

No matter how good-tempered Mutombo was, he was yelled at and got angry. In the end, the coaching staff pulled the players back to the locker room.

Star players can never get into fights with fans, and Madison Square Garden has become the least favorite away venue for other stars in recent years.

No matter how the team wins or loses, New York fans can always find fun. This is why everyone likes to buy tickets to watch games. Exporting opponent stars on the spot has become the team culture of the new era.
The game was broadcast by NBC. At the end of the game, Hannah Storm, who had returned from maternity leave, served as a sideline reporter for the first time in a long time.

The two hugged each other after the game, and Li You also said hello to the veteran female host who returned to the NBC studio:
"Without you, the ratings of NBC's programs have dropped a bit. Welcome back!"

Not a vase character, but a professional host in the studio. When Hannah heard Li You’s joke, she just tilted her head and said:
"You know Li, NBC's broadcast era is coming to an end, and I specifically applied for the opportunity to interview you."

The two briefly exchanged news about the industry. After being reminded by the staff, Hannah took the phone and asked with a smile:
“连续7场比赛砍下30+，李，你有机会追平1973年阿奇博尔德创下的连续12场30+的纪录！”

"I noticed that your three-point attempts are still on the rise this month. Is this the secret to your efficient scoring?"

Taking the microphone, many fans at the scene were still shouting happily. Infected by the atmosphere, Li You also joked:

"Efficient scoring is indeed inseparable from three-pointers, but I also have to thank my opponents tonight. I like this kind of game!"

"."

Since Jeff Van Gundy served as the head coach of the Eastern Conference All-Stars last year, according to the rules, this year's head coaching position was deferred to Byron Scott, the head coach of the No. 2 Nets in the Eastern Conference.

In the Western Conference, the Kings and Mavericks overtook the Lakers and Spurs. Adelman served as the head coach of the Western Conference All-Stars last season. After the postponement, Nelson got this position.

O'Neal made a brief comeback, played two games and was injured again. Kobe led the team's record to decline during this period, and no one was discussing the MVP.

On January 1, Iverson rebounded strongly and defeated the Timberwolves at home, which saved his face.

It’s just that on the second day of TNT’s program, in addition to warming up for the upcoming All-Star Game, they also didn’t forget to take a dig at the host country’s star players:
"If you only look at the previous schedule performance, I would choose Baron Davis, he is more worthy of an All-Star qualification."

"Don't tell me about the injury. As long as you go out and play, no one will sympathize with you. Going all out is respect for the players."

"I don't like the Sixers' performance this season, and I wouldn't be surprised if they end up missing the playoffs."

Charles Barkley once again put on the appearance of a famous senior, while Kenny Smith helplessly covered his forehead and pretended to whisper:

"I'm going to play for the Rockets in the Masters this year, and I don't want to be booed in Philadelphia. Chuck, it's time to change the subject."

Charles Barkley has given up his plan to go to Philadelphia. In the past two years, he has poked a hornet's nest. His status as a celebrity is useless, and he was criticized miserably by Philadelphia fans:

"Kobe Bryant is also overrated. He was just a scorer next to Shaq. He cost Phil Jackson his job as head coach of the Western Conference All-Stars."

"I don't know why he still appears on the MVP rankings. Without Shaq, the Lakers' record has declined. Kobe is not an MVP-level player."

When Ernie Johnson heard this, he also raised his forehead and said helplessly:

"If we keep talking, the studio will be filled with letters from fans. I plan to change my phone number and start over. What we want to discuss is Li's record!"

Seeing the helpless expressions of his two partners, Charles Barkley grinned and said seriously to the camera:
"If Lee shoots like Iverson in every game, I even think he can break Chamberlain's record!"

Iverson and Kobe were always inseparable from each other. Charles Barkley himself laughed after saying these words. Kenny Smith was completely helpless and changed the subject again and said:
"If Vince Carter withdraws from the All-Star Game, who on the bench is better suited to start the game?"

"It's not Iverson anyway. The Nets have a better record. This time I vote for Jason Kidd!"

As soon as Charles Barkley finished speaking, both people in the studio stared at him. They really didn't want to be complained about anymore.

On February 2st, Rockefeller Center and Radio Concert Hall, Hook held a new product launch conference.

Different from previous product launches, this time there are more charity elements. The previous high-price sales strategy will not work. The price needs to warm people's hearts.

As the ESPY Awards Ceremony approaches, as long as there is no schedule pressure, many sports stars have gathered in New York.

At this product launch, everyone naturally supported us and made donations to express their love.

In addition to sneakers, there are also some sports equipment and new clothing. Designer Eric Wacker is introducing Li You's new sneakers. When talking about the design concept, his voice also begins to deepen:
"Lee hopes that every kid who loves basketball can wear this signature shoe."

"There are no expensive special materials, nor too strange styling designs. They are completely based on actual combat. This is definitely an excellent pair of sneakers that can accompany you on the basketball court."

"In order to highlight the uniqueness of this pair of signature shoes, we have also made unique patterns on the outside. Although the price has been reduced, we guarantee that the quality of the sneakers will remain as outstanding as ever!"

"."

As the introduction sounded, everyone also saw the design sketches and the final finished sneakers. The video and physical display, combined with the excellent design concept, also made the media reporters at the scene scream.

Li You, wearing a light gray formal suit, sat in the front row, beside him were Hook founder Phil Knight and Matt Parker, general manager of the footwear division.

The three of them chatted in low voices, talking more about sneaker sales and advertising.

This sneaker is close to the Hyperdunk series that Li You remembers, but the upper material and shoelaces are slightly different.

The lack of technological materials is indeed to lower the cost of sneakers. Li You’s first-generation signature shoes are still on sale, and the price remains high.
"Being able to reach the finals every year, although it increases some advertising costs, is what we are looking forward to."

"Keeping the current data, there is still a lot of hope for this year's MVP!"

Matt Parker whispered to Li You, which was a reassurance for him:

"Do I have a chance to win three consecutive MVP awards?"

Hearing Li You's joking words, Phil Knight also whispered:
"Then we need more shocking data. In recent years, the demands of sports media have become higher and higher!"

As the pure white sneakers were displayed, Li You also followed on the stage. There were some black moire patterns on the uppers. These are this year's All-Star boots.

In addition, there are pure white color matching, black bright Knicks color matching and eye-catching bright orange color matching.

The price of 149 US dollars is also more conscientious compared to the Jordan 17. The sale of a pair of shoes, hooks and charitable donations will be used to relieve the pressure on New York's public finances.

The sneaker introduction is almost complete, and Matt Parker, who followed him on stage, also did not forget to introduce the follow-up promotional documentary:

"On February 2, Li's personal documentary will be broadcast on ESPN. Hook hopes that more people can understand Li's story!"

The documentary is mixed with a lot of sneaker information, which can be regarded as an alternative way of advertising. A generation of signature shoes has once again prepared the sickle, and new leeks can be harvested again.

Li Youxin's advertising posters began to appear outside Madison Square Garden. The black cloud pattern on the sneakers has Chinese elements. This special color matching has naturally been well received.

The number of Chinese in New York has gradually increased in recent years. The significant change is that the area of ​​Chinatown has become larger, and many Italians have been squeezed out of the city.

More and more Asians like to go to Madison Square Garden to watch football, and with the opening of the Chinese market, Hook will not miss this opportunity.

On February 2, Ewing appeared at Madison Square Garden to cheer for his good brother Mourning.

The Kidney Warrior returned to the court with such spirit, it is indeed admirable.

It was rare for New York's fun-lovers not to mock their opponents. The Heat won at 94:86, and Mourning was applauded at the scene.

According to the current record of 17 wins and 28 losses, the Heat will most likely miss the playoffs. Mourning's comeback failed to change the team's decline.

After the game, looking at Ewing's mellow smiling face, Mourning felt sour in his heart. He naturally knew that his career had begun to decline.

Looking at the six championship flags above the arena, Mourning wanted the championship very much at this moment.

In the next three games, the Knicks first defeated the Pacers, and then warmed up the Clippers on the road.

On the night of the 7th, they defeated the Hawks at home at 86:98. Before the All-Star Game, the Knicks' record was fixed at 35 wins and 12 losses.

After losing to the Mavericks, the Nets' record became 32 wins and 15 losses.

Although the gap of three wins is not big, it allows the Knicks to sit firmly in the first place in the Eastern Conference.

Also at the end of the day, the Wizards defeated the Kings at home.

With 26 wins and 21 losses, although McQueen's efficiency has declined, he has a great chance of leading the team into the playoffs this year!

The Kings, who lost the game, have a record of 37 wins and 12 losses, and are currently ranked first in the Western Conference;

Ranked second in the Western Conference is the Mavericks with 35 wins and 14 losses;
O'Neal was injured again, and after Kobe led the team to lose to the sluggish Bulls, the Lakers ranked third in the Western Conference with a record of 33 wins and 13 losses.

The Knicks' dominance in the Eastern Conference is disappointing, but the Western Conference has begun to crazily involute, and the gap between the East and the West has become even more apparent.In the Eastern All-Star Team, Vince Carter was eventually absent due to injury, and Jason Kidd came to the starting lineup. At the same time, the big-mouthed Paul Pierce entered the All-Star team as a substitute.

In the Western Conference All-Stars, O'Neal also sat out due to injury, Chris Webber entered the starting lineup, and Elton Brand of the Clippers entered the All-Stars as a substitute.

Michael Jordan was selected to the All-Star Game for the 13th time, and sports media have recently begun to report on Michael Jordan's "great achievements."
On Friday, February 2, Li You and Grant Hill set off for Philadelphia.

The two chose to take a private plane, and Li You took the opportunity to place an advertisement for American Express.

Compared to Li You, who was dressed in casual formal attire and a single man pushing a small suitcase, Grant Hill took his singer wife Tamia on a love trip.

After staying in New York for more than a year, Tamia became familiar with Li You.

After the three of them said hello to the media reporters, they completed the photo taking task and got on the plane. Tamia hugged Grant Hill and joked with a smile:
"Li, why don't you take your girlfriend out with you? Do you have a date in Philadelphia?"

Li You leaned back on his seat, sighed comfortably, and changed the subject with a melancholy look on his face:

"I'm probably the most hated person among Philadelphia fans. Every time I go to the First United Center to play, the boos can't stop."

"I'm just going through the motions this year. I have no interest in performing for them amidst boos!"

Tamia didn’t know much about the situation in Philadelphia, and Grant Hill laughed out loud:

"What Li said is true, but I think this matter should have something to do with the New York fans. Both sides can't stand each other, so it's understandable that they enjoy this kind of treatment."

The "evil" New York fans and the New York media stepped on the Balloon Star, and the Philadelphia sports media naturally had to fight back.

However, there is a gap in influence between the two sides, and with the emergence of "traitor" Stephen A. Smith on the opposite side, Philadelphia's counterattacks are usually loud and clear, and have little influence locally.

In this All-Star Game, Philadelphia fans naturally want to support their stars, and Li You is ready to be booed as soon as he catches the ball.

Tamia listened to her husband talk about how the Knicks "bullied" Allen Iverson, and soon she giggled with joy. In this All-Star Game, Li You had thrown himself into the trap.

Compared to Li You, who plans to fish, Kobe, as a "child of Philadelphia", naturally has to perform hard and strive to win the award!
Taking Vanessa back to his "hometown", Kobe felt like he was returning to his hometown.

Although he did not achieve many achievements, Kobe believed that he was still better than Allen Iverson. After all, he reached the finals for two consecutive years, which is something that many players cannot do in their lifetime.

In an interview with the famous NBC reporter Rashad, Kobe was in high spirits and confidently stated:
"I love Philadelphia, this is my hometown! I'm very happy to be able to play in front of my hometown fans!"

"On Sunday, I will give a wonderful game to the fans here. I hope everyone can support me!"

"."

As the host's core player, Iverson was not in the starting lineup and was upstaged by another "child from Philadelphia." Naturally, Iverson was not in a good mood.

On the morning of the 9th, the NBA arranged for everyone to take makeup photos. None of the Western Conference All-Stars were champions, and everyone wanted to sit in the C seat in front.

On the Eastern All-Star side, wearing Knicks jerseys, Li You and Mai Dun both looked like big shots, and they didn’t need to be greeted by photographers. They just sat in the front.
Li You wanted to hold the prop basketball, but Michael Jordan raised his eyebrows and snatched the ball away:

"5 is greater than 4, you have to sit on my left, and the ball must be in my hand!"

"For the sake of you being 38 years old, I will give it to you this time!"

Li You counterattacked casually, without looking at the furious Maidu, and called Grant Hill and Ray Allen to stand nearby.

Of course, taking photos is very particular. Ray Allen smiled and stood next to McQueen. He is a star of Jordan. Grant Hill also stood with Li You. They both belong to Hook.

The four people filled up the place where the sneakers could be exposed in the front. Seeing this, Iverson cursed in his heart and did not raise any objection. He followed the little guys to the front.

The big man stood at the back, and Mai Kou and Li You sat at the front, one on the left and one on the right. The four of them had bright smiles on their faces. The host, Iverson, had a big face. The photo was frozen at this moment.

On the night of the 9th, in addition to the rookie challenge and individual events, this year's Philadelphia All-Stars also added some celebrity skills challenges.

The game is divided into 4 groups-Houston, International, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia.

In addition to current NBA players, each team also includes WNBA players and retired team stars as well as well-known entertainers.

Representing Houston are Cariti Mobley, Tina Thompson, Kenny Smith and actor Mick Fox.

On the international team's side are Turkoglu, Ticha Penicello, Marciulionis and the famous Canadian actor Tom Kavanagh.

The Los Angeles team consists of Fisher, Lisa Leslie, Magic Johnson and singer Brian McKnight.

The four members of the Philadelphia team are Eric Snow, well-known female coach Dawn Staley, 4ers star Moses Malone, and NSYNC singer Justin Timberlake.

Before the game even started, the First United Center was already bustling with activity. Due to the labor agreement, Philadelphia’s All-Star Game was canceled and it became the host city again after a few years. Philadelphia fans were also particularly happy.

Li You, who planned to take advantage of the situation, came to the scene mainly to cheer for Ray Allen, who was participating in the three-point shooting contest.

Kenny Smith was practicing with the ball at this time. When he saw Li You, he immediately pulled him to the center of the field.

"Why isn't Charles here? Is this guy talking about Iverson on the show again?"

Hearing Li You's words, Kenny Smith couldn't help laughing:
"Li, do you watch our show every day? I want to tell everyone this good news!"

Looking around, he did not find Charles Barkley. Li You also smiled:
"Your show is really great. Remember to ask Chuck to say less bad things about me."

The two chatted for a while, and Kenny Smith introduced a few people around him. Soon, Magic Johnson also greeted Li You on the other side, and at the same time joked loudly to the surrounding sports reporters:

"Come and take a picture of the best point guard in history!"

Li You immediately walked over and hugged the Lakers legend, then hugged Magic Johnson and joked to the sports reporters who gathered around him:
"5 is greater than 4, but I am confident that he will steal the title of the best point guard in history!"

Although the Lakers lost twice in a row in the Finals, Magic Johnson didn't care about it and didn't delay the business exchanges at all.

After greeting "Little Fish" and the female Sparks players, Tom Kavanagh also hugged Li You and exchanged greetings:

"Long time no see, Lee! It seems you are really not welcome in Philadelphia!"

Tom Cavanagh, who stars in "Ed," watches games at Madison Square Garden from time to time. The two have known each other since 2000.

After hearing the future "reverse flash" joking about himself, Li You realized that some Philadelphia fans began to boo again:
"I still prefer New York, where everyone is cheering for me."

The young Justin was holding the ball and shooting wildly. At this time, he came to the two of them and said with a sad face:

"I don't have time to practice, I'm going to be embarrassed tonight!"

Li You looked to the sidelines again, but didn't find Britney. He bumped Justin with his shoulder and joked in a low voice:
"Didn't your superstar girlfriend come with you?"

Although the two have known each other for a long time, in order to maintain a good boyfriend image, Justin has never participated in excessive parties.

Every time she appears at Madison Square Garden, there will be Britney by her side. However, when she heard her girlfriend’s name, Justin could only smile awkwardly and change the subject:
"I plan to release a single this year, Li. Remember to come to my party then!"

"."

Iverson's eyes were on fire watching from the sidelines. This was his home court, but now he could only watch Li You greeting everyone.

When Maikou also appeared at the scene, they quickly started chatting and laughing.

Only the 76ers' star encouraged Iverson. Old-school coaches like Chuck Daly were chatting with McQueen at this time, and no one paid attention to the host's star player.

The All-Star Game is also an opportunity to expand your circle of friends, but Iverson has had more negative news than positive news in recent years. In addition, he was beaten up by Li You again, and he was a little unable to hold on for a while.
After the Rookie Challenge began, Iverson was still sullen on the sidelines, but Kobe was very happy as a "child of Philadelphia". The fans in his hometown were indeed enthusiastic!
The Celebrity Skills Challenge was responsible for warming up the atmosphere. After the scene became lively, it was soon the turn of the Rookie Challenge.

The first-year rookies failed to break the dominance of the second-year team. After the restructuring, the second-year team won this year's Rookie Challenge.

In the end, the Warriors' second-year rookie Jason Richardson won the Rookie Challenge MVP trophy.

After the three-point shooting contest started, Li You pulled his friends who had participated in the Celebrity Skills Challenge to cheer for Ray Allen.

As a result, the good brother stretched his hips and was eliminated in the preliminary round.
Peja of the Kings finally narrowly defeated his opponent and won the three-point shooting contest.

The dunk contest was quite exciting. Jason Richardson used a beautiful crotch-hand switch dunk to win another dunk contest championship!
On February 2, during the All-Star Weekend, before the game started, in the Eastern All-Star locker room, head coach Byron Scott noticed that McQueen was a little depressed, and he still said with a smile:
"After the game starts, let McDunn attack a few times, Kidd, Lee, show your gorgeous passing skills to the Philadelphia fans!"

Playing cards until midnight last night, Maikou lost another dollar. Although his physical condition was average, he still waved his hands bravely and said:
"No need to take special care of me, I'm not old enough to need someone to feed the ball!"

Li You, who was sitting aside, was very energetic. Hearing the request of the head coach who suddenly turned into a "dog licker", he finally gave him face:

"Don't worry, coach! Kidd and I will control the rhythm of the game."

Kidd was also very happy to get the starting position. At this time, he fist bumped with Li You and agreed:
"Tonight we will play more fast breaks. Don't think about the outcome. At least we must play the game beautifully!"

Grant Hill is just a good guy in the locker room. His task tonight is to score a few beautiful goals after his appearance and then just fish.

Iverson and McGrady wanted to perform to the fullest, but unfortunately they were just substitutes
At this time, Ray Allen transformed into a little fan of McQueen, always talking to each other intentionally or unintentionally.

Although it was a home game, Mutombo was not in a high mood. Fortunately, he was accompanied by his good brother Mourning. As for the result of the game, he also didn't care much.

At the beginning of the All-Star game, when Li You took the ball, huge boos erupted from the scene.

In this case, after showing off two dunks and passing two balls to Mai Dun, Li You started to take advantage of the situation, throwing three-pointers blindly.
No one likes to play in the midst of boos, not to mention this is still an exhibition game. Li You didn't steal the show. He took the initiative to leave the game after playing 1 minutes in the first quarter.

The Eastern All-Star team's substitutes worked harder than the main lineup after coming on the bench, while for the Western All-Star team, Kobe became more and more excited as he played!
Seeing the Philadelphia fans wildly booing Li You, Kobe felt an indescribable joy in his heart.
In the end, the Eastern All-Star starting lineup all took advantage of the situation. 120:135, the Western All-Star team ushered in a big victory!
As the host, Iverson came off the bench and made 11 of 3 shots, scoring 8 points.
Kobe made 25 of 12 in the game and 7 of 7 free throws. With a game-high score of 31 points, Kobe successfully won the AMVP trophy.

Li You stood in the back wearing a towel, chatting with Pierce, Nash, and Nowitzki from time to time.

After receiving the trophy from David Stern, Kobe excitedly raised the glass again, but what he heard was boos from Philadelphia fans.

Turning around, Kobe saw Li You waving goodbye to the fans behind him and slowly walking towards the tunnel.

Kobe, who was holding the trophy, found that the boos were getting louder and louder. It seemed that no one cared about him anymore. He felt aggrieved for a moment, the smile disappeared from his face, and he even cursed in his heart:
"Shet! I am the AMVP!"

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(End of this chapter)