On July 15, 2001, Lee hosted two parties back-to-back at his home on 82nd Street.

Most of the guests on Saturday were Hollywood stars and directors he had met at premieres over the years, as well as local celebrities from New York and New Jersey.

Parties were for everyone to call up friends, have fun, and if they hit it off, roll around in bed.

For Lee, such gatherings didn’t bring him much help, but they could earn him a good reputation.

Nicole Kidman, who had just finished promoting her movie, was very happy.

After her divorce, she moved to New York and lived not far away.

There were many beautiful women at these gatherings, but Nicole Kidman, still at her peak beauty, remained everyone’s favorite.

Older actresses weren’t Lee’s type, and he wasn’t interested in being a rebound.

His friend Jimmy Fallon spent the whole evening being attentive, making her eyes sparkle.

Regarding his friend’s choice, he could only offer blessings.

Perhaps with overlapping peak periods, their lives would be happier.

Sunday night’s gathering was for sponsors, socialites, and New York City officials.

There were no celebrities, and Lee put more effort into it.

Over the years, he had proven himself not to be just an ordinary NBA star.

At least, he hadn’t squandered the money he earned, and he didn’t have many hangers-on.

During University of Connecticut alumni events, many well-known alumni from the judicial system also gave positive reviews.

In New York, thanks to the mayor’s care, his reputation was equally good.

Ewing had been mixing in circles for so many years, still sticking to the same old black community ways, but often, skin color wasn’t important.

Profit was what truly mattered.

Compared to the relatively lively party last night, the atmosphere created by the party company tonight was quiet and reserved.

On the second floor, a pianist played a melodious tune.

Kenneth Chenault, who had just taken over as the current CEO of American Express this year, and his wife Kathryn, constantly greeted acquaintances.

For an African American to reach such a position, he naturally put in tremendous effort.

Lee patted Ivanka beside him.

She noticed Kenneth, quickly smiled and embraced him in greeting, then pulled Kathryn aside to whisper.

“It’s great to be young. If I had a choice, I wish God would let me return to 18. Look at me now, I can only play golf.”

For a successful man, 50 is when his career just reaches its peak.

He maintains a good physique, with only his hairline and hair color showing signs of aging.

Noticing his smug sigh, Lee could only follow with a compliment:

“Age is never a problem. If I had a choice, I’d rather achieve career success like you.”

In 1999, American Express had just launched the Centurion Card.

This item was not rare for the wealthy, and Lee was also one of their clients.

This card was mostly used for girls’ expenses.

The two parties had met before.

This time, the endorsement fee of $25 million for 5 years was just the beginning of further cooperation.

For many middle-class individuals, Lee was undoubtedly successful, even a representative of the “American Dream.”

The Wall Street Journal and Vanity Fair used this to continue promoting Clay Lee’s life, and the NBA even helped to boost it.

After becoming famous, he didn’t engage in promiscuity, drugs, or extravagance.

He studied, used his platform to make friends, expanded his influence, crossed social strata, and became a different kind of sports star.

With their combined efforts, after several years of observation and the impact of the championship, this cooperation was achieved.

After a brief exchange of pleasantries, Kenneth Chenault got straight to the point, saying earnestly:

“Kenneth Lay’s influence is far greater than you imagine. He has held important positions in the Department of Energy and the Department of the Interior.”

“Most importantly, he is also a good friend of the current President. Given Enron’s size, shorting them is not a good option.”

Kenneth Lay, the big boss behind Enron, is very well-known in the business world.

Of course, he is also a member of the financial community, and he started “falsifying and gambling” years ago.

Most of Lee’s funds are in Axe Capital.

As an investor, he is only responsible for providing some connections within his capabilities.

The ability to control more and more funds actually belongs to Bobby Axelrod.

No one can refuse high returns.

Tiger Capital collapsed due to shorting the internet, while Axe Capital reaped the benefits.

After gaining industry recognition, it naturally developed rapidly.

This wasn’t the first time Lee had heard such a warning, but for a foregone conclusion, he still smiled and said:

“I trust Bobby. He will be responsible to the investors, so I only look at the returns and never question the process.”

“But I will remind him. After all, the company’s funds are growing, and none of us like to lose our money.”

Kenneth Chenault looked deeply at Lee, then smiled and raised his champagne glass.

After they clinked glasses, they stopped discussing the topic:

“Clay, I recommend you become a member of the Westchester Country Club. There are many good golfers there, and the environment is excellent!”

“It seems I need to practice my golf quickly. I don’t want to be at the bottom every time.”

As everyone knows, Lee’s golf skills are far from his basketball skills.

Kenneth Chenault chuckled at this, which was also why everyone liked to invite Lee to play golf.

On the other side, Jim Cantalupo, the CEO of McDonald’s, and Charlie Bell, the head of the Chicago headquarters, were also smiling happily.

Noticing that Lee had finished his conversation, the two approached, pulling Lee and whispering to the Vanity Fair reporter:

“Take a picture of us. I love tonight’s party.”

Jim, dressed in a black suit, was bald but didn’t care about his image.

Lee put his arms around their shoulders, smiling brightly, allowing the reporter to take photos.

After a simple promotional task, Jim introduced his assistant to Lee, then whispered:

“Lee, we need to use your image more in Asian regions. Perhaps you don’t know how much people across the ocean love you!”

McDonald’s was indeed about to enter the Asian markets in large numbers.

Lee, of course, knew his popularity, especially since his player cards were selling like crazy in Japan.

“I think we can improve the product taste. You know, New York fans often complain that our new products are terrible.”

Hearing Lee’s words, Jim gave an awkward smile.

For many middle-class families in New York, McDonald’s food indeed had an average taste.

This led to many complaints during fan events that McDonald’s wasn’t putting in effort, and even when coupons were given out, no one used them.

Some burgers were even worse than the expensive food at Madison Square Garden.

To change this impression, they could only improve the products.

Jim quickly moved past the topic, chuckling as he gossiped with Lee:

“More talented players will emerge in the next two years. Have you been following Carmelo Anthony and LeBron James?”

“They are definitely geniuses. Perhaps they will become your biggest opponents in the future.”

More young players began to pay attention to Lee.

Perhaps some people didn’t like him or his mixed race origin, but everyone didn’t reject the money.

More importantly, Lee’s lifestyle was enviable.

Even a fool knew that with a lot of money, women were a byproduct.

The media didn’t report it, but players who knew the inside story were well aware.

On the morning of the 18th, the moratorium ended, and the NBA free agency officially opened.

The Detroit Pistons sent Jud Buechler and John Wallace to the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for Ben Wallace.

Ben’s stats were not impressive last season, coupled with his undrafted and “connected” status, this trade did not attract much attention.

The biggest trade news of the day was the Nets sending Stephon Marbury, Johnny Newman, and Soumaila Samake to the Phoenix Suns for Chris Dudley and Jason Kidd!

Marbury had been leading the team to fishing for several years, and the New Jersey Nets could not wait any longer, so they simply traded for the “Triple-Double Master.”

Kidd’s popularity goes without saying.

After this trade was announced, he immediately made a bold statement during an interview in Phoenix:

“I know what New Jersey fans crave. Believe me, I will lead the team to the Finals!”

“I don’t need to prove how good I am, because I know I am a championship-level player.”

“Next season, Nets fans, be prepared. We are going to win big!”

Kidd, who had already shaved his head bald, seemed to feel stronger, and he was boasting wildly in front of the sports media.

This was also related to the recent Phoenix sports media no longer favoring him.

Kidd was eager to prove himself again.

After Kidd finished boasting, an ESPN reporter suddenly asked with ill intent:

“Kidd, after coming to the Eastern Conference, you will frequently play against Clay Lee. During the regular season, you will definitely match up often!”

“What are your expectations for this, and do you think the Nets can break the New York Knicks’ dominance?”

Kidd heard the name of his superficial brother, and secretly glared at the tactless reporter.

Not even allowing him to boast?

“Lee is my good brother, and I’m glad he has achieved what he has today.”

“I like playing against excellent players. The Western Conference backcourt is too weak. I believe I can gain more next season!”

“As for the New York Knicks, they certainly won’t keep winning forever, and next season, it will be the Nets who end their run.”

As an All-Star guard, Kidd still had a lot of swagger.

Even before reporting to the team, he had already taken on the role of a leader.

Everyone laughed as they listened to Kidd boast.

Many had a premonition that this guy would also get a boomerang to the face.

Marbury was also welcomed by the Phoenix media.

In many people’s eyes, Kidd was a “ball hog.”

He always had disagreements with the Head Coach.

On the basketball court, Kidd always prioritized his own feelings.

Although he could lead the team to a relatively flashy offense, facts proved that it was useless in the playoffs.

Marbury, who also wanted to prove himself, gladly accepted this trade.

As a 96 rookie who also signed a big contract, his exposure was pitifully low.

This trade attracted the attention of basketball commentators, and Marbury also stated:

“I like Phoenix, and I will prove myself again here.”

“…”

Under the major trades, no one paid attention to the Lakers’ abandonment of Tyronn Lue and Horace Grant, who were subsequently signed.

The Washington Wizards signed Tyronn Lue, while the Orlando Magic took Horace Grant.

Both players, who didn’t play much of a role in the Finals, were ultimately abandoned.

The Lakers seemed to want to find reliable perimeter defenders, but such players were highly sought after by all teams in the NBA.

On July 19th, the New York Knicks sent Rashard Lewis to the Seattle SuperSonics for a 2002 first-round draft pick and a 2002 second-round draft pick.

This trade also gave the New York Knicks a $4.4 million trade exception.

This trade was entirely due to the player’s personal wishes.

The New York Media was somewhat dissatisfied with this.

Although they obtained a first-round pick, the Seattle SuperSonics were clearly not a bottom-feeder like the Chicago Bulls.

A late pick doesn’t help the team much, but Lewis’s one-dimensional attributes made this trade seem reasonable.

General Manager Grunfeld did not explain to the New York Media that some players no longer wanted to play with Lee.

In interviews, he only subtly stated:

“Rashad is indeed an excellent player, and we are very sad to lose him, but business is business, and we fully respect the player’s personal wishes.”

“During his time with the New York Knicks, Rashad contributed to the team. He is a true champion player!”

By joining the Seattle SuperSonics, Lewis could become the team’s third-leading scorer.

Glen Rice was clearly not in the team’s plans, and Head Coach McMillan also began preparing for a rebuild.

In the afternoon, Lewis invited the New York Knicks players to his home for a party.

Kurt Thomas was ecstatic about his decision.

If all went well, he would claim a starting spot next season!

Lee, who had received the news earlier, was not surprised.

After all, there was only one ball, and Lewis would most likely only be the fourth scoring option on the team.

Ewing, who had been frequently interviewed and appeared on sports programs recently, had gained some weight.

Regarding Lewis’s choice, Gorilla joked:

“It’s not easy to make it to the Finals with the Seattle SuperSonics. The Western Conference has more strong teams.”

“But I think you’ll definitely put up good numbers. As long as you hit a few more three-pointers, 20 points won’t be a problem.”

“You’ll definitely get a good contract after next season!”

The apartment Lewis rented in Manhattan was also quite spacious, and everyone chatted cheerfully.

Grant Hill had also been frequently invited to sports programs for the past half-month.

Upon returning to New York City for two days, he found the team had changed dramatically.

Noticing that Lee’s expression remained unchanged, even sharing tips on how to score efficiently, Hill could only instinctively blink.

This scene once again exceeded his expectations.

“To get good stats, you must have three-pointers. I’m not worried about Rashad’s performance on that front.”

“Of course, the Seattle SuperSonics is indeed a good choice. Gary Payton is getting old, and Vin Baker’s form is declining year by year. If you can perform well, you might even become the team’s leader.”

Everyone burst into laughter.

Lee waved his hand and continued seriously:

“Shooting is very important; it’s the foundation for getting good stats. Three-pointers, free throws, fast breaks—as long as you master these three, you’ll definitely become an All-Star!”

Rashad Lewis was so excited that he hugged Lee tightly.

Grant Hill, standing nearby, suddenly retorted:

“Lee, why don’t you emphasize post-up moves?”

Lee shrugged.

He had no reservations about this question:

“That’s an outdated skill. Next season, the NBA will allow zone Defense. I can guarantee that playing in the low post will attract even more Defense.”

“Everyone will be standing near the paint, and low-post offense will be easier to double-team. So I won’t increase my low-post game. Instead, I’ll continue shooting three-pointers.”

“Sometimes scoring is just a math problem, Rashad. What you need to do is stick to your playing style and not care about outside comments.”

“As long as you persevere, you’ll definitely get a big contract. There are too few big men in the NBA who can shoot three-pointers.”

Kurt Thomas finally understood why Ben wanted to leave the team.

Lee’s offensive structure was destined to affect rebounding and a series of other stats.

Rashad Lewis chuckled and patted his chest, loudly promising:

“Lee, I believe you. I will stick to my playing style!”

Ewing waited for a while and still didn’t see Allan Houston, so he couldn’t help but sigh in a low voice:

“It seems Allan really likes Orlando’s hospitality. He seems to have been there for over half a month.”

Ron Artest, who was tinkering with the stereo, wished for one less competitor.

He turned his head and gossiped:

“I saw ESPN’s news report; the Orlando Magic seems to be offering a 7-year contract!”

Lee didn’t pay much attention to gossip, but when he heard “7-year contract,” he was also a little surprised.

Signing this contract, Allan Houston truly wouldn’t have to worry.

He could still earn a large sum of money in the last year of his career, making him a true life winner.

Everyone else also started gossiping when they heard the news.

Ewing felt a pang of envy.

He only enjoyed the benefits of a contract late in his career.

Looking at Allan Houston, who would easily earn tens of millions of dollars after signing the contract, Gorilla thought it over and decided he had to keep making money after retirement!

On Saturday, July 21st, the TNT regular program replayed the regular season game between the Orlando Magic and the New York Knicks.

The three praised Tracy McGrady’s talent.

Perhaps because news of Michael Jordan’s comeback was increasing, Charles Barkley had been somewhat bewildered recently.

A few days ago, he had boasted, and it felt like a boomerang was coming back to hit him in the face.

Kenny Smith, however, did not tease his partner but suddenly gossiped:

“Why are the New York Knicks players choosing to leave the team? Are players in their contract year unable to get more opportunities playing alongside Lee?”

Charles Barkley’s spirits finally lifted when he heard this topic:

“It’s very difficult to put up good numbers with the New York Knicks. Allan Houston and Clay Lee currently control most of the shot attempts. Last season, the New York Knicks was a two-man team.”

“If you go further back, Ewing also needed shot attempts. If Hill’s physical condition recovers next season and his playing time increases, he will inevitably take away some more possessions.”

“Role players can only play Defense. They have very few opportunities for self-initiated offense. I’ve said it before: Lee’s success is built on the sacrifice of others.”

“But to win a championship, these sacrifices are inevitable. They succeeded, and I’m not surprised by the choices of the role players.”

Ernie Johnson had been gossiping about Allan Houston’s choice in the past few episodes, and he added, following this topic:

“If Allan Houston chooses to join the Orlando Magic, coupled with Tracy McGrady’s talent, under Head Coach Rivers’s leadership, I believe they can take another step forward.”

“For the Orlando Magic, this is indeed a good trade. If they choose a sign-and-trade, they only need to pay a very small price to get an All-Star guard in return.”

“Do you think the New York Knicks will offer a bigger contract?”

Kenny Smith immediately shook his head.

He had wanted to say Allan Houston was overpaid, but in the end, he expressed it tactfully:

“Lee is too young. No one can guarantee a player’s competitive state after 34 years old.”

“And a big contract would make the New York Knicks lose salary cap space. If injuries occur again and the team performs poorly for several consecutive years, Lee might choose to leave.”

“The current roster structure is already excellent. Of course, for Head Coach Van Gundy, next season will also bring more challenges for the coaching staff.”

“What kind of tactics will they play? Without excellent offensive space, can Lee still maintain efficient performance?”

“There will be problems on both ends of the court. I am very much looking forward to the answer Head Coach Van Gundy provides.”

Charles Barkley then stroked his chin and self-deprecatingly said:

“Perhaps this is the best time to join the New York Knicks. I’m considering it. I can play power forward and teach the young players some game experience.”

Glancing at his partner’s physique, Kenny Smith naturally didn’t take this topic seriously and joked with a smile:

“Believe me, Lee will directly reject your joining. He doesn’t like working with veterans at all. Look at the New York Knicks now. Most of them are young!”

“…”

On sunday, July 22nd, Orlando Media broke the news that Allan Houston had officially reached a verbal agreement with the Orlando Magic, and sports media erupted again:

“Dynasty team completely disintegrated!”

“…”

….

By the way, don’t forget to throw power stones and leave a review to motivate me 🙂

Source: Webnovel.com, updated by NovelKeep