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***

On June 27, 2001, after the draft ended that night, sports media began to comment.

Madison Square Garden, as the home court of the New York Knicks, saw the New York Media being the most active.

If the New York Knicks had not received an assist from Champion Guard Sprewell, they would have gained nothing from this year’s draft.

Due to the Minnesota Timberwolves having their draft picks forfeited, the New York Knicks ultimately selected Trenton Hassell with the 28th pick.

With the 47th pick, the New York Knicks selected power forward Antonis Fotsis from Greece.

With the 50th pick (a second-round pick from the Phoenix Suns), the New York Knicks selected 2.11-meter big man Jarron Collins from Stanford University.

Affected by their record, the New York Knicks’ draft picks were basically worthless.

Most of the selected players were just for atmosphere, getting two years’ salary at the end of the first round before being cut, and second-round picks were usually eliminated in one year.

This is also why many low-draft-pick players do not like to play for the New York Knicks.

Coming here, don’t expect to make it big.

The case of Ben Wallace is somewhat special.

Over the years, through in-depth investigation by sports media, everyone knows that Ben received care from Oakley.

If second-round players don’t have “connections,” they shouldn’t expect to make a name for themselves with the New York Knicks.

Lewis falling to the second round was an accident, and big men who can shoot three-pointers are also a rare attribute in the NBA.

Second-round guys really don’t have those two skills.

There were also some New York Knicks fans at the draft site, who enjoyed the spectacle and many even held up pictures of Sprewell—the true Champion Guard!

Chicago Bulls General Manager Krause had a grim expression throughout.

Sprewell’s stats were very impressive and ranked high in the NBA.

In many games, he easily scored 20+ points, and for the current Chicago Bulls, he was definitely the strength of the team.

What was troubling was that good stats did not equate to winning, and the Chicago Bulls had some internal conflicts last season over ball possession.

This time, if the Champion Guard does not produce results with a new interior partner, Sprewell will most likely bid farewell to Chicago.

Lee knew the truth.

Sprewell was just tanking.

This guy had too much to drink and confessed to him.

Having won a championship, a big contract, and being the leader of the Chicago Bulls, with all these conditions, playing basketball was almost becoming a side job.

Such situations are not uncommon.

In fact, this is the true performance of most NBA players.

Training is too hard, games are too many, and “I got the money, what’s there to fear” is the commonality among players.

The New York Media didn’t care about the low-draft-pick players.

Just by looking at their faces, they weren’t superstar material!

In contrast, the handsome Pau Gasol fit most people’s perception of a star player.

Although his agency had already informed Pau Gasol and confirmed he would play in New York, and he didn’t even have to pay out of pocket to buy out his contract with the club, being traded after being drafted still made Pau Gasol’s face flush with excitement.

Wearing a black suit, white shirt, and dark blue tie, Pau Gasol was quickly surrounded by the New York Media as he took his official photo holding the New York Knicks hat.

It is well known that Lee dislikes the Fat Man Eddy Curry, and Jeff Van Gundy loves Tyson Chandler.

Rumors had long been confirmed, as the New York Knicks only invited Kwame Brown, Tyson Chandler, and Pau Gasol for tryouts.

Eddy Curry, known as the “Little Shaq,” was quite upset when he heard this news.

After being traded to the Atlanta Hawks in the draft, he didn’t forget to complain during an interview:

“Compared to New York, I prefer Atlanta. I will prove myself, and I am confident I can lead the Atlanta Hawks to rise again!”

“…”

Unfortunately, after his boast, most sports media paid little attention.

If the genuine “Big Shaq” couldn’t do it, the pirated “Little Shaq” would likely end up fishing within a few years.

On the other side, Pau Gasol, surrounded by reporters, was answering the New York Media’s questions in broken English:

“I have always followed the NBA. To play in the highest level league in the world, it’s a dream come true!”

“Yes, of course, I like the New York Knicks. They have won the championship for four consecutive years; I think fans all over the world like this team.”

The New York Times really liked the “superstar face” of Pau Gasol.

Although he looked a bit soft, after a few years of refinement, he would likely become an All-Star:

“Pau, next season you will be playing with Lee. What are your expectations for your first season in your professional career?”

Knowing that he had to boast and not be modest when answering such questions, Pau Gasol said in simple sentences:

“Clay Lee is a superstar. Playing alongside him, I believe I can learn a lot. I won a championship in the Spain league. For my first season, I want to win Rookie of the Year.”

“I know my strengths. I can help him, help the team. I can’t wait to get on the court and play!”

“…”

Most of the New York Media were circling Pau Gasol, and the other highly anticipated player was Kwame Brown.

High school players lack systematic training in college basketball, and their tactical awareness is deficient.

However, with high school Rookies generally making a name for themselves in recent years, prejudices have become less and less.

Mark Bartelstein was worried that the No. 1 pick he signed would say something wrong, so he handled the media reporters throughout.

Unlike Lee, Kwame Brown, who hadn’t even gone to college yet, had the personality of a child.

Charles Oakley didn’t particularly like this No. 1 pick, nor did he like Hamilton, who was just playing a minor role on the team.

In general, the two sides didn’t get along.

Oakley liked to smoke cigars, play with girls, drink, dress maturely, enjoyed acting like a big boss, and branded himself as a member of high society.

Meanwhile, some younger players liked to play video games, enjoy lively nightclubs, and prefer personalized clothing.

Both sides looked down on each other, but the older guys had more say, so it was destined not to be easy for Kwame Brown to make a name for himself with the Washington Wizards.

Most media reporters did not know that Michael Jordan planned to make a comeback, as he had previously said he was 99.9% retired.

When interviewing No. 1 pick Kwame Brown, most of the questions were about leading the team to rise:

“I am the best player in this draft. I like playing for Michael Jordan. He is our idol. I am very happy to play alongside my idol.”

Keeping his agent’s words in mind, Kwame Brown boasted energetically and tried to appear confident.

Everyone didn’t make things difficult for him, after all, they still had to give Mark Bartelstein some face.

Tony Parker, selected by the San Antonio Spurs, saw the reporters surrounding the two and felt a bit envious.

At this moment, no one was paying attention to him.

Michael Jordan also did not forget Clay Lee.

After the draft ended, the two got together to discuss the private training camp afterward.

Even knowing his physical abilities had declined, Michael Jordan still believed he was better than most players in the NBA.

The two, both in dark gray suits, were chatting and laughing together, quickly attracting many media reporters.

Noticing the Chicago Media, Jordan pulled Lee and said with a laugh:

“This offseason, I plan to hold a training camp back in Chicago. I invited Lee, but this guy seems unwilling to accept my invitation!”

“He lost to me many times in Las Vegas. I don’t want to be dragged to play golf. In that regard, he should challenge Tiger Woods. Although the other party is his fan, I guarantee Michael Jordan will lose very badly.”

Jordan didn’t mind Lee exposing his past and instead laughed heartily, clearly in a great mood after selecting the No. 1 pick.

The Chicago reporters were curious about the training camp, roughly guessing it was a Nike event, and casually asked:

“Michael, is the training camp a brand event?”

“No, I just want to understand my physical condition. You know, sometimes I also want to move my body around.”

As soon as Michael Jordan finished speaking, many people suddenly realized something and couldn’t help but let out a low gasp.

Lee looked at Jordan, who was laughing silently beside him, still teasing the reporters, and couldn’t help but secretly laugh: “The days of losing miserably are yet to come!”

On June 28th, at the Westwood Mann Village Theatre in Los Angeles, Lee wore a black formal suit, accompanied by Scarlett, who was in a black cocktail dress.

At the premiere of “Beautiful and Crazy,” Lee arrived at the scene.

Before he could wave, he was booed loudly by some Los Angeles reporters, and then everyone burst into laughter.

Apparently, many reporters were Lakers fans, and having just lost the Finals, they naturally wanted to join in the jeering when they saw Lee.

Starting at 6 PM, celebrities and stars gradually arrived to show their support.

Many media reporters knew that unlike young players who liked to play games, Lee preferred watching movies.

Whenever a premiere was held in New York, he would show up to support it, but this was his first time appearing at a premiere in Los Angeles.

Director Stockwell certainly had a lot of face.

Although it was a cliché romance film, he managed to attract many stars to support it.

Scarlett, holding Lee’s arm, carefully shuffled her feet while muttering in a low voice:

“A little slower, this is my first time wearing such high heels!”

After her last movie flopped, the big girl, Scarlett frequently returned to California to find work.

Unfortunately, the film industry seemed a bit superstitious, and for a while, she couldn’t get any good scripts.

“Lee, are you planning to leave New York? This is your first time appearing at a premiere outside of New York!”

Everyone started to jeer again, but Lee didn’t mind.

He pointed to the movie poster on the other side and said with a smile:

“It’s the offseason. Actually, I really like Los Angeles. The weather here is great!”

“…”

After some casual chatting and posing for photos, Jimmy Fallon, also in a formal suit, quickly hugged Lee:

“Thanks, Bro! I knew you’d come!”

Lee was torn between laughter and tears.

He hadn’t planned to attend the movie premiere before.

If it weren’t for a friend’s invitation, he wouldn’t be interested in a cliché romance film.

At this point, computers and games held no attraction for him.

Watching classic “old films” became Lee’s primary pastime in his free time.

“Are you serious? Don’t you like the older sister type? Oh, Dunst is young, but she does have an older sister vibe.”

Lee whispered to his friend while hugging him.

Scarlett, whose feet were aching nearby, covered her mouth and chuckled.

Dunst, also a child star, seemed to be aging prematurely, indeed looking older than her years.

Casually greeting the people around him, Jimmy Fallon gave a bitter smile.

After co-hosting MTV, this girl had been pestering him:

“We’re just ordinary friends. I don’t really like dating big stars.”

Lee secretly pouted.

This guy was being disingenuous.

They had known each other for many years and were well aware of each other’s preferences:

“Back in New York, I’m having a party. I’ve invited Nicole. Haven’t you watched Moulin Rouge several times? Do you want to come?”

Completely dropping the act, Jimmy Fallon nodded quickly, almost beaming.

Lee then leaned in again and whispered into his friend’s ear:

“Hollywood actresses over 30 might start thinking about settling down!”

“…”

Although not everyone can be a “taker,” Lee still had to remind him.

Just like Jennifer Connelly, she had already started looking for a father for her child.

On the other side, Kirsten Dunst, in a white dress, quietly moved next to them, took Jimmy Fallon’s arm, and smiled:

“So glad to see you here, Clay! Thank you for coming to my premiere!”

19-year-old Dunst looked a bit mature for her age, but she was dressed “generously and richly,” knowing well how to show off her sexy side.

“Bitchy!”

Scarlett secretly glanced at the “headlights” opposite her and kept complaining in her heart.

Everyone chatted and laughed in low voices, and the atmosphere was very good.

While the “generously and richly” dressed Dunst was away, Scarlett whispered again:

“Her resources are really good. She always gets some decent scripts.”

Lee didn’t pay attention to Scarlett’s sudden “envy and jealousy.”

He put his arm around her and comforted her softly:

“When you reach her age, maybe you’ll become a big star!”

In the future, she would likely continue to flop.

There were too many Hollywood eye candies, and a plethora of beautiful girls.

To make it big, she was destined to wait another two years.

Even though Jimmy Fallon kept assuring him that the movie was very good, Lee still wasn’t very interested.

The story of a poor boy and a rich girl, most people liked this kind of thing.

In the film, Dunst once again showed off her sexy figure, truly “generous and rich.”

Scarlett, watching the movie, rolled her eyes again, then suddenly leaned into Lee’s ear and whispered:

“I don’t want to go home tonight!”

In California, she mainly stayed with her mother, and in Manhattan, she was taken care of by her father.

Without supervision, the young girl wanted to indulge a bit.

Even though she put on an adult facade, she still appeared very naive.

Lee glanced at the young girl, and his fantasy of practicing “big balls” was shattered.

On the morning of the 29th, at the Beverly Hills Four Seasons Hotel, after practicing “small balls” all night, Lee woke up to Scarlett smiling as she handed him nail polish.

He knew she wanted to recreate the scene from last night’s movie.

Completely unconcerned about her nakedness, Scarlett, whose feet were held, lay on the bed and burst into laughter.

Watching Lee apply nail polish to her, the young girl pulled over a pillow and asked with a smile: “Lee, how many girlfriends have you had?”

Lee didn’t even lift his head.

At this point, his OCD kicked in, and he meticulously applied the nail polish, casually saying:

“I don’t remember, but every time the girl broke up with me, and the reason was always that I was too good to them.”

She twisted her body and laughed again.

Seeing the clothes scattered by the bed,

Scarlett’s face flushed slightly, and she quickly asked:

“Will you marry Melinda? You’ve been dating since college.”

Lee still didn’t lift his head, continuing to respond casually: “Of course, I’m a responsible good man!”

Apparently not getting the answer she wanted, the young girl secretly pouted, then asked in a low voice:

“What about Kim? You’re so good to her. You even brought her to the mayor’s party!”

“We’ll also get married. Didn’t I say that? I’m a responsible good man.”

“Don’t try to fool me! Answer seriously.”

“God didn’t say a man can only marry once!”

Lee was speaking the truth.

Few people could win his heart, but young and beautiful girls could always win his body…

And after getting his body, they could unlock more knowledge!

Seemingly angered, the young girl sat up and pounced directly onto Lee.

After hugging him, she bit his shoulder hard:

“I knew you were a playboy all along! And my brother likes you so much!”

Unexpectedly, this girl had such good stamina.

Lee simply lifted her up and slowly moved to the window.

This made her gasp in surprise.

Lee quickly leaned into the young girl’s ear and teased softly:

“Of course, everything I said was sincere. Do you still want to continue discussing this topic now?”

Noticing his body’s reaction, the young girl bit Lee hard again and grumbled with a muffled voice: “It’s already noon!”

On July 1, 2001, the NBA announced that the salary cap for the next season would be $42.5 million.

Since the players’ BRI (Basketball Related Income) was unlikely to be triggered, it was highly probable that no team in the league would pay a luxury tax this season.

Although new regulations were implemented, restraining wealthy teamswould have to wait until next season.

The settlement time for this offseason would be brought forward.

On the 18th, teams could officially conduct trades.

Although Kukoc was sent to the Atlanta Hawks, he was still in New York at this time, helping the Rookies Pau Gasol and Fortsis find houses and settle down these past few days.

Pau Gasol, already playing in a professional league, was considered a millionaire.

With money leading the way, he naturally enjoyed the best services in New York.

Kukoc had visibly gained weight.

Seeing Pau Gasol renting a house near the Madison Square Garden, he advised in a low voice:

“Daily training is in Tarrytown. A small apartment here is enough. It’s more convenient to settle near the training facility.”

The real estate agent naturally recognized them and took the opportunity to promote houses:

“Lee has a house near the Metropolitan Museum of Art. If you’re looking to settle down in New York, you can consider that area. We can provide the best housing information.”

Pau Gasol shook his head.

He was a bit apprehensive about whether he could establish himself with the New York Knicks, especially since the Head Coach didn’t seem to like him much.

As a Champion Coach, Jeff Van Gundy’s reputation was growing, and Rookie players naturally felt psychological pressure when encountering such a coach.

After looking at houses all morning, Pau Gasol treated his elder brother to lunch.

They chose a Spanish restaurant.

After they were seated, enthusiastic fans asked for autographs.

After Pau Gasol finished taking photos, Kukoc chuckled and continued to introduce the team’s situation:

“Pau, don’t worry about starting or playing time. Even if Head Coach Van Gundy doesn’t like you, as long as Lee nods and wants to partner with you, you’ll be able to start!”

Pau Gasol was slightly taken aback, seemingly not having reacted, and Kukoc quietly explained:

“This is the NBA. Superstars call the shots. It’s completely different from Europe.”

“The New York Knicks’ offense is actually very simple. Most of the time, it’s just giving the ball to Lee, and he decides what kind of play to run each possession.”

“Head Coach Van Gundy and the coaching staff are mostly responsible for building the Defense system during daily training.”

“So, as long as Lee thinks partnering with you is fine, you’ll definitely get a lot of playing time and should also achieve some good statistics.”

Pau Gasol was completely stunned.

Are NBA coaches master caretakers?

Seeing Pau Gasol’s surprised expression, Kukoc couldn’t help but grin and laugh twice:

“If you have good statistics, you might even make the All-Star in your first year. That’s the advantage of playing in New York.”

“The New York Media here holds a lot of sway. As long as they recognize you, getting honors will be much easier than on other teams.”

Completely different from what he had expected, Pau Gasol subconsciously nodded, then suddenly asked in return:

“What happens if you don’t get media recognition?”

Kukoc suddenly remembered Ewing, who had failed repeatedly before:

“If you don’t get recognition from fans and the media, you’ll probably be booed at home. People here prefer victory. Their tolerance for failure is very low.”

Nodding thoughtfully, Pau Gasol hadn’t yet personally experienced what it was like to play in New York.

Thinking of the elder brother across from him and his particularly successful career, Pau Gasol suddenly asked gossipy:

“Michael Jordan and Clay Lee, who do you think is a better teammate? Who is stronger?”

The Dream Team introduced the world to the NBA, and Pau Gasol grew up watching Michael Jordan play.

Clay Lee was only 3 years older than him and had achieved exaggerated honors, so he naturally wanted to learn more about him.

When he was with the Chicago Bulls, Kukoc had been ostracized, and after coming to the New York Knicks, he mostly played a minor role:

“It’s hard to compare the two’s strength, as their playing styles are completely different.”

“Neither of them are good teammates. Michael would lose his temper on the practice court and demand strictness from his teammates, while Lee never makes demands, but if he thinks your ability or attitude isn’t enough, don’t even think about starting.”

“The way they lead the team is also completely different. Michael Jordan is a strict jerk, and Clay Lee should be ruthless, but as long as you perform well, both of them will acknowledge you.”

Pau Gasol was again confused.

He thought Lee was easy to talk to.

On draft day, he smiled and encouraged him for a long time.

Now he was being told that all those impressions were wrong?

Anyway, since he was leaving the New York Knicks, Kukoc let loose and continued:

“There’s no pure basketball in the NBA, and there are no secrets to playing in New York.”

“Be careful not to complain in front of the New York Media. The reporters here have good relationships with Lee. They’re practically his mouthpiece. Play seriously, and I believe you can succeed in New York.”

“…”

Upon returning to New York, Lee received an invitation from Ben, with Larry Johnson and Allan Houston also present.

The four met at an indoor golf course not far from New Jersey.

This club was frequently visited by the New York Knicks players.

Dressed in golf attire, they casually chatted while hitting balls randomly.

After some bragging and joking, Larry Johnson suddenly said:

“I plan to officially retire this year. I don’t want to suffer from back pain anymore. As long as my contract can be bought out, I should enjoy life.”

“That’s a lot of money, which should be enough to cover all those child support payments!”

Hearing his self-deprecating remark, the others didn’t laugh along.

Allan Houston even frowned and asked in a low voice:

“32 years old? After your contract ends, you could still play for a few more years.”

Patting his stomach and then pointing to his chest, Larry Johnson said seriously:

“Last season, I was in constant pain from rehabilitation, but I still had problems with my physical conditioning.”

“We play to earn big money. Now I’m satisfied. I have a championship and a lot of money. As long as I don’t spend recklessly, it’s enough for me to enjoy a wealthy life in New York.”

Allan Houston didn’t refute, as he was currently pursuing a big contract.

His agent was still negotiating with the team.

For his last contract of his career, he needed a long-term deal.

Lee was also a bit surprised by the sudden retirement announcement, but seeing Larry Johnson’s nonchalant expression, he knew that everything he said was sincere:

“You should find a job after retirement. I’m worried your child support payments will increase, given how many beautiful girls there are in New York.”

Larry Johnson let out a lewd laugh. If he didn’t play with women now, he’d be too old.

After returning to New York, the orgies had to start!

Ben Wallace, with his hair tied back, also chuckled along.

After being traded, their relationships hadn’t changed.

As mature players, they naturally understood that business was business.

Ben Wallace looked at the others, seemingly recalling his days of negotiating contracts, his mood slightly low, but he still spoke:

“Lee, I’m planning to go to the Detroit Pistons. My agent told me that the Atlanta Hawks are unlikely to offer me a stable starting position.”

“I want to go to a weaker team first and get more statistics, so I can sign another big contract later.”

Lee wasn’t surprised to hear Ben’s plan.

With Larry Johnson’s retirement, the Detroit Pistons were essentially rebuilding.

“That’s indeed a good plan. To get a big contract, besides statistics, you also need more honors. No one will share rebounds with you, so getting a Rebounding Title would be great.”

Soon, the four began to chat casually.

They all had championships, and when discussing the future, it was mostly about how to make money.

Larry Johnson was the most pragmatic.

He planned to look for a job with the New York Knicks, just in case child support payments exploded, giving him a safety net.

Allan Houston hoped to get a 6-year long-term big contract, retire immediately after fulfilling it, and then become a basketball coach like his father.

Of course, if given the opportunity, Allan Houston hoped even more to join the New York Knicks coaching staff as an assistant coach, so his salary would still be substantial after retirement.

Ben hoped to rack up impressive statistics, gain more recognition, and then sign another big contract, making his career complete.

The few of them called friends, and eventually partied until late into the night.

The Retro-style nightclub was still exceptionally noisy deep into the night.

Lee looked at the rolls of money on the table and then at the drunken crowd, hugging and kissing girls, and secretly sighed:

“All under heaven, bustling, all for gain.”

“…”

…..

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Source: Webnovel.com, updated by NovelKeep