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Dragon Emperor in Pokemon World.

The return of Itachi

I am Sasuke. Why should I defect from Konoha.

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***

On July 15, 2004, after the NBA free agency opened, several teams simultaneously looked for takers.

The Phoenix Suns gave up on Stephon Marbury, using a second-round pick to have the Bobcats help clear salary cap space.

After several maneuvers, they did free up space, but Anfernee Hardaway was stuck with them.

With two years left on his contract, the Phoenix Suns wanted to trade away the past All-Star, whose physical condition was deteriorating, but they could never find a suitable taker.

In the free agency market, the Dallas Mavericks, after much deliberation, finally gave up on Steve Nash.

The management did not offer a satisfactory contract to the star guard, who had obvious strengths and weaknesses, and it seemed that Head Coach Don Nelson’s position was also about to change.

Though somewhat reluctant, Nash ultimately bid farewell to his friends.

He needed respect, and no matter how well the Dallas Mavericks spoke, they lacked genuine sincerity.

For 4 years and $40.26 million, with the first year’s salary only a little over $8 million, Nash accepted the Phoenix Suns’ offer and chose to return to where his dreams began.

Although the Phoenix Suns signed Nash, their salary cap was full, which led to a ripple effect, making it difficult for them to make big moves in the free agency market.

Anfernee Hardaway’s contract became a huge obstacle.

Currently, they could only hope that the past All-Star would regain his vitality next season.

July 15 also saw a major trade:

The Denver Nuggets sent out a 2005 first-round pick (from the 76ers) and two 2006 first-round picks (one from the Orlando Magic).

They ultimately acquired the beast power forward Kenyon Martin from the Nets.

This trade stunned Nets fans.

The team was on the rise, consistently securing playoff berths each year, and now they were breaking up?

After his 4-year Rookie contract, the Nets had a team option.

The main reason for trading Kenyon Martin was that they considered the beast power forward a team weakness.

For professional basketball commentators, Jason Kidd’s presence seemed to elevate the level of Nets players, so after this trade, many actually gave it positive reviews.

Of course, what surprised commentators the most was the New York Knicks’ move.

Under limited conditions, Grunfeld ultimately signed free agent Derek Fisher with the full mid-level exception.

Next season, Fisher will serve as the New York Knicks’ backup point guard, and this trade filled the void left by Knight’s departure.

Fisher, who is about to turn 30, is also considered a big-game player.

After being refined by the Lakers, he is currently in the prime of his career.

However, as soon as this trade was announced, many Lakers fans immediately broke down, and even sports media in Los Angeles shouted “Traitor.”

Kobe was the most hurt.

In the recent Finals, when they were trailing by a large margin, only Fisher still supported him and played garbage time with him.

Recently, the two had even trained together and encouraged each other, but within a week, his old teammate had “defected.”

What made Kobe even sadder was the report claiming that Derek Fisher had volunteered, actively having his agent contact the New York Knicks immediately after the Finals.

With Kobe about to lead the team alone next season, he did not receive support from his old teammate, who left him decisively.

Kobe, who was left alone in the training gym, quickly accepted an interview with the Los Angeles Times.

When asked about the trade, his expression was still somewhat grim:

“I don’t know why the team didn’t keep Derek. We went through a lot together, and I believe he should have been part of the team’s plans.”

“However, this will not affect the Lakers’ record next season. Once the new season begins, I will still lead this brand new team to the Finals.”

Los Angeles sports media was very satisfied with Kobe’s attitude towards basketball.

Training at 4 AM is no joke!

After the trade was announced, Fisher, who had already flown to Manhattan, also accepted an interview with the New York Times.

When asked why he joined the New York Knicks, Fisher smiled brightly and said happily:

“No one would refuse to play with Lee. I want to continue chasing a championship!”

“Having played against Lee many times in the Finals, I know his strength. After joining the team, I will do my job well. You know, my three-point shot is not bad.”

When asked why he left the Lakers, Fisher did not shy away and simply said:

“I don’t like complicated locker rooms. Now I just want to enjoy the joy that basketball brings. The Lakers are great, but they are no longer suitable for me.”

“I simply want to chase a championship.”

After this trade occurred, even Shaquille O’Neal, who had previously been traded by the Lakers, began to gloat in front of the sports media:

“I knew it all along, no one likes playing with Kobe. He’s a system wrecker, only thinking about showing off!”

“I’m very glad the Lakers traded me to the Heat. I’m old now, and I just want to help Dwyane Wade win a championship.”

“I’m optimistic about Dwyane Wade. He has the ability. He is a better player than Kobe, and the Heat is his team. I believe we will succeed together.”

Fisher is very popular in the Players Union.

His words implied that the Lakers were finished and had major locker room issues.

Shaquille O’Neal had already broken with Kobe Bryant.

After “Shaq also did it,” Kobe never apologized to him face-to-face, and last season he didn’t like passing him the ball. With the trade, the two tore each faces.

Former teammates seemed to not be optimistic about Kobe’s leadership.

That day happened to be Thursday, and on TNT’s show, the trio also discussed these two trades:

“Considering the competitive environment in the Western Conference, it won’t be easy for the Lakers to make the playoffs next season.”

“Of course, I’m more concerned about Fisher’s remarks. Combined with Phil Jackson’s previous words, it seems the Lakers’ problems in this year’s disastrous Finals loss stemmed from Kobe.”

When the director showed footage of the two interviews, Kenny Smith also began to stir the pot.

Fans love to hear such gossip during the offseason.

Charles Barkley was no longer interested in talking about Kobe Bryant.

Like Allen Iverson, he wasn’t interested in past stars, only praising the New York Knicks’ signing:

“General Manager Grunfeld did a great job of addressing the team’s weaknesses. Fisher is experienced and can start at point guard for many teams.”

“Serving as the backup point guard for the New York Knicks, his ability is not a problem at all.”

“In terms of roster depth, many teams can’t compare to the New York Knicks. I’m still optimistic about them next season!”

Ernie Johnson saw that his partner was not in high spirits and immediately signaled the director to change the screen.

Japanese media filmed Lee’s basketball event in Osaka, a fan meet-and-greet organized by Nike.

The atmosphere was extremely lively.

In the Arena, as soon as Clay Lee appeared, screams erupted one after another.

The atmosphere in the arena turned electric as two fans, selected for the meet-and-greet, were completely overcome by the gravity of the moment.

These weren’t casual spectators.

They were Lee’s die-hard followers. In a frenzied display of devotion, they threw themselves toward him, clinging to his legs with a desperation that halted the entire event.

The scene was one of pure, chaotic adoration until security moved in to carefully separate them from their idol.

Charles Barkley watching the footage was visibly stunned.

Having spent a lifetime in the spotlight, even he seemed caught off guard by the sheer magnitude of Clay Lee’s influence in Japan—a level of fanaticism that bordered on the religious.

“It seems we underestimated Clay Lee’s popularity in Asia. Reportedly, ‘Win’ is selling well in Japan these days, and Upper Deck’s trading card sales are also rising.”

“Nike didn’t organize the event well in Osaka. The fans were too enthusiastic, and it was called off due to safety concerns.”

Ernie Johnson explained what happened in the video, and Charles Barkley kept shaking his head after listening:

“That’s insane! Last year, Nike’s overseas sales exceeded those in North America. That’s Lee’s influence.”

“Next year, when Lee’s contract expires, he should sign a lifetime contract worth over $500 million.”

“If I were a young girl, I’d also like Clay Lee. Who would refuse to be friends with a super-rich person? Damn it, why are players making more and more money now?”

In the studio, Barkley himself started sounding sour as he spoke.

Although he earned a lot of money during his career, in terms of sneakers, even if his sneaker sales increased tenfold, they couldn’t compare to Michael Jordan’s.

Now, Lee’s sneakers would once again boost Nike, and thinking of the green American dollars, Barkley gradually became so sour he couldn’t speak.

The NBA is essentially for public entertainment.

Players play to support their families.

No matter how much players emphasize honor, dollars are always first.

Kenny Smith understood his partner.

Clay Lee made too much money, too easily.

This was a benefit of winning, but another factor was his playing style:

“I’ve said it before, Clay Lee is unique, and basketball is only one aspect.”

“Not everyone can handle immense wealth. We’ve seen many players sign big contracts and suddenly fall from grace. This is where young players should learn from Lee.”

Once the contract issue was brought up, both of them felt a bit bored, with a hint of jealousy in their hearts:

“He makes too much!”

After a busy day, Lee, who was strolling in Chuo-ku, Osaka City, that evening, also felt that Upper Deck was making too much money!

Dotonbori often appears in many films and TV shows.

The massive billboards on both sides of this famous food street give one the illusion of New York.

Lee, dressed lightly, casually surveyed the shops along the street.

These past few days had been sponsor events, so he naturally wanted to wander around during his rare free time.

Ignoring the attention of the onlookers, Lee and his group found a fugu restaurant that wasn’t too crowded.

As soon as they entered, the owner quickly came forward to greet them warmly.

Matt Parker unbuttoned two buttons of his shirt.

This kind of Japanese style restaurant also existed in America.

After sitting down, he skillfully ordered, and only after the server left did he quietly complain:

“Damn event organizers, but this level of fanaticism from fans is also something I’ve never seen before.”

“Upper Deck has made a lot of money these past few years, Lee. Don’t be polite with them on your next contract!”

No matter how much they package the player cards, the cost of these things is ridiculously low.

Lee’s Rookie card price is getting higher and higher, and the collection value of his out-of-print cards has been climbing in recent years.

Even some special cards have incredibly low costs.

Ordinary mass-produced cards, as long as they have Lee’s signature, will double in price.

None of them collected cards, but these past few days had been an eye-opener.

Upper Deck was making a killing in Japan.

In the private room, Melinda, wearing a gray suit skirt, understood Lee’s contract.

At the time, 20 million American dollars over five years was already an astronomical price in the industry, comparable to Michael Jordan’s.

However, after participating in brand events in Japan these past few days, Melinda also felt that this price was still too cheap.

“The contract expires next year, so we really need to have a good talk. Matt, how big of a contract will Nike offer Lee, and have you discussed the percentages?”

Melinda asked with a smile, but Matt Parker just shook his head, saying helplessly:

“Don’t make it difficult for me. This still needs to be discussed. You know, business is business.”

Lee put his arm around Melinda.

He knew Nike’s contract bottom line: a 10-year lifetime contract, by which time his career would be nearing its end.

The amount would still require some negotiation, and the specific details would involve some incentive clauses:

“Don’t make it difficult for Matt. In a few years, he’ll be taking over as CEO, and we’ll need to continue working together in the future.”

Melinda, with sparkling eyes, kissed Lee.

The matter of a sub-brand would definitely require Matt Parker’s help in the future.

Japanese sports media had been very busy these past few days, constantly tracking and reporting on Lee’s brand activities.

However, what made local fans happiest were several articles in the Asahi Shimbun:

“Yuta Tabuse has been recognized by Lee!”

Lee actually had a little impression of this diminutive guard who was trying to get an NBA contract in the preseason.

But this did not prevent him from naturally boasting during interviews.

Lee spoke very eloquently:

“Persistence and effort will eventually pay off. What Yuta Tabuse needs to do is believe in his own ability. He has the ability to become a qualified NBA rotation player.”

Lee praised him to the sky, talking about his speed, excellent basketball IQ, courage in confrontation, and good court vision, all for free.

Even knowing these were just polite words, the Japanese sports media were overjoyed to hear them, even overlooking the matter of their local fans fanatism for Lee.

On July 16th, the Phoenix Suns finally found a taker, sending out Anfernee Hardaway.

In exchange, they acquired Dale Davis and Ruben Patterson from the Portland Trail Blazers.

Davis’s contract had only one year left.

Clearly, the Phoenix Suns were planning for the future.

Ruben Patterson would also increase the depth of the Phoenix Suns’ bench.

This trade received positive reviews from critics.

The Portland Trail Blazers saved a tiny bit of expense, exchanging small change for large sums.

They always liked to take on aging stars, seemingly believing that Anfernee Hardaway could have a second spring after coming to Portland.

Eddy Curry has currently become a key focus of the Portland Trail Blazers’ development.

Critics believe this trade is forward-looking, as Hardaway has worked with Shaq and might be able to mentor the Rookie.

Perhaps Kobe’s expression of dissatisfaction played a role, as the Lakers also quickly made reinforcements.

They offered a full mid-level exception contract and signed free agent Vlade Divac.

After this trade was announced, Lakers fans were greatly disappointed.

In last season’s playoffs, Divac had shown a serious decline, and no one believed that this former Laker could shore up the team’s interior.

Critics gave Kupchak’s confusing move a very low rating, as Divac was already 36 years old.

Compared to the Lakers’ confusing move, the Cavaliers’ trade was met with widespread praise:

They sent out Tony Battie, a 2005 second-round pick, and a 2007 second-round pick;

In exchange, they acquired Drew Gooden and Steven Hunter from the Orlando Magic.

The Cavaliers seemed to have too many big men.

Regarding this, Jeff Van Gundy, in an interview, confidently stated:

“When the new season begins, we must ensure absolute height in the paint!”

“We will use more zone Defense. The Cavaliers’ paint will become a true no-fly zone.”

“After a season of training, we all understand LeBron’s talent.”

“By relying on excellent Defense to generate more transition offense, and by relying on individual ability to finish, the Cavaliers will display a completely different style of play in the new season.”

LeBron James was selected for this United States Men’s National Basketball Team.

In the Summer League, Dwight Howard performed well.

Although his offensive moves were limited, his ability to rebound and jump was undeniable.

On Saturday, July 17th, the Cleveland Plain Dealer’s interview with Van Gundy was released.

The Champion Coach’s clear intentions once again sparked discussion among critics.

The tactics Van Gundy spoke of were not uncommon.

The Detroit Pistons had heavily used a 3-2 zone Defense in this year’s Eastern Conference Finals, frequently double-teaming the ball-handler.

Coupled with a more mobile interior combination, they aimed to limit the New York Knicks.

Although the tactics failed, everyone could see from the Eastern Conference Finals that Clay Lee definitely put in a considerable effort to cope with the game.

Compared to the Detroit Pistons, the Cavaliers’ current roster could indeed implement this defensive system.

Zydrunas Ilgauskas, after all, is over 2.20 meters tall.

Just standing under the basket can be effective.

Accordingly, pairing him with an interior player with faster lateral movement, compared to the Detroit Pistons’ Rasheed Wallace and Rasheed Wallace combination, does have some similarities.

However, in terms of game experience, there’s a huge gap between Rookies and veterans!

But Cavaliers fans bought into Van Gundy’s grand vision:

“As expected of a Champion Coach, he only took one season to build the tactical system most suitable for the team!”

Several prominent sports journalists in Cleveland rallied behind Van Gundy, believing this system was very suitable for LeBron James.

No one would doubt the athletic ability of this The Chosen One.

His impact is visible to the naked eye!

This weekend, ESPN continued to track and report on Lee’s news in South Korea, occasionally teasing Kobe about still having to report to Denver on the show.

TNT, on the other hand, reported in detail on the Cavaliers’ news.

Compared to their counterparts, they seemed more optimistic about this rebuilt team.

On Monday, July 19th, the United States Men’s National Basketball Team flew to Jacksonville, Florida.

They would train there with the North Florida University team until the end of the month.

Before the Olympics began, they would also play warm-up games against the national teams of Germany, Serbia and Montenegro, and Turkey.

Head Coach Larry Brown has been under fire recently, and his comments in an interview gave fans a bad feeling:

“Some players refused the call-up due to too many games, and some players are still working hard for big contracts and don’t want the Olympics to affect their health.”

“OK, I understand that, so I chose players who volunteered to play.”

“For the young players on the team, I hope they are mentally prepared. They may not get playing time, or they may play for 20 minutes.”

“They are the future of the team, but right now, the first thing they need to do is learn how to play the right way from other players!”

The young players referred to LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Carmelo Anthony, and the Rookie Emeka Okafor, who had just entered the league.

After taking a jab at Lee and others who refused the call-up, Larry Brown also stated his attitude:

“I trust veterans more!”

This statement displeased many sports commentators and some players.

Was this something that could be complained about to the media?

Grant Hill and Duncan, who had already arrived in Jacksonville, did not receive too much attention.

Most media surrounded LeBron James.

The Cavaliers’ trade and Dwight Howard’s good performance in the Summer League made the team a recent hot topic.

LeBron James enjoyed being surrounded by people.

He liked being the center of attention on the court.

The morning training session had not yet begun.

Arriving at the arena, most players were still warming up, and LeBron James, who was being interviewed, was confidently stating:

“I believe Head Coach Van Gundy can lead the Cavaliers to a championship!”

“We have already prepared for the new season’s tactics, but Dwight has to adapt to the NBA. Coach Thibodeau is very strict. He has to start with Defense.”

“Record? I haven’t thought too much about it. We have accumulated good talent. Starting next season, my goal is to lead the team into the playoffs.”

“You know, in this team, I am the only first-year Rookie who hasn’t played in the playoffs yet. I don’t want to be laughed at by Dwyane Wade and Melo all the time!”

Unlike Allen Iverson, who looked full of bitterness and hatred, LeBron James was laughing and joking during the interview, and Dwyane Wade and Carmelo Anthony also joined in the fun, bantering with reporters.

The three clearly didn’t fit the atmosphere of the scene.

Allen Iverson never smiled, and Marbury was still worried about his contract, frowning constantly while warming up.

Richard Jefferson and Marion were chatting in low voices, Carlos Boozer seemed to be imparting experience to Emeka Okafor nearby, and Lamar Odom seemed to have partied too hard last night, still drowsy while dribbling the basketball.

“The roster seems to have some problems. We lack experienced big men!”

Grant Hill, warming up, whispered to Duncan next to him.

The latter observed his surroundings and immediately responded in a low voice:

“Head Coach Larry Brown probably wants to speed up the pace of the game, just like in previous Olympics, relying on Defense and fast breaks to score.”

In this team, Grant Hill and Duncan had the highest achievements, both having played in the Finals, so they naturally led the team.

When Larry Brown and the coaching staff appeared, they didn’t look at the sports media present.

They clapped their hands to gather everyone and then said loudly:

“Forget your roles in the league. From now on, we play for each other.”

“Grant, you have experience in international competitions. I hope you can take on the responsibility of a leader!”

Seeing Grant Hill nod, Larry Brown smiled.

Sports media setting up cameras filmed from the sidelines, and soon someone began to quietly complain about the roster issues:

“The Detroit Pistons players all refused the call-up? If you don’t want to use Rookies, why select them?”

Most sports media still didn’t believe Larry Brown’s words, thinking that this experienced famous coach was trying to discipline the Rookies on the team.

On the 19th, Lee had already boarded a private jet to Singapore.

The activities in Japan and South Korea were not many, mainly Nike and Upper Deck, with some American Express business gatherings, and the rest were sponsorship events for Ray-Ban, McDonald’s, and Pepsi.

This Gulfstream could accommodate 19 people and had all the daily facilities, but Lee didn’t feel anything special when he sat in it.

As soon as he got on the plane, he pulled everyone to play cards.

These days, the Nike staff had witnessed Clay Lee’s popularity in Asia, and the fanatical fans left a very deep impression on them.

What made them most envious was Lee’s earning ability.

Melinda was very picky about endorsements, rejecting more than half of the money offered.

Everyone gathered around to play Texas Hold’em.

Matt Parker looked at his cards and teased Lee about his popularity:

“If you participate in some TV activities, you will definitely gain more fans.”

“When you return to the United States, you should also participate in more talk shows. This can deepen your impression among ordinary fans.”

Lee was in a good mood. Hearing the other party’s suggestion, he said indifferently:

“After Facebook develops for a few more years, more social media will definitely emerge. I’m not interested in compromising for activities.”

“In the future, I plan to acquire an online community. By then, I can speak for myself. My name is the brand.”

“If you’re interested, we can invest together. Oh, and I also plan to invest in a data website. Their algorithms are very interesting. Advanced data—this can also increase my influence!”

Hearing this plan, Matt Parker understood why Lee had rarely participated in TV shows in recent years.

Social media and personal branding were indeed good ways:

“Perhaps you are right. It seems I’m a bit outdated. I rarely pay attention to these things!”

Noticing Matt Parker shaking his head slightly, Melinda knew that he wasn’t very interested, but that was even better, as Lee didn’t lack funds.

A Nike staff member accompanying them had been following this year’s free agency market and, thinking of recent news, gossiped:

“It is said that Miami plans to hold a grand welcoming ceremony for Shaquille O’Neal!”

“The mayor also mentioned this in an interview. Pat Riley believes they have a chance to win the championship within three years. Lee, will the New York Knicks keep winning?”

Lee, of course, understood Pat Riley’s intentions; he was betting that the New York Knicks’ championship streak would be interrupted.

The timing was just right.

As long as the Heat worked hard, they were very likely to get the league’s support and thus end the New York Knicks’ dominance.

Grant Hill and Kurt Thomas’s physical condition could only last for three years at most.

35 years old is considered a watershed for a player’s body.

Gary Payton’s sudden sharp decline this year was also related to age.

“No one can predict the future, but I like to keep winning.”

“I’m not worried about opponents. Instead, salary cap space will be an obstacle. Although the Heat traded for Shaquille O’Neal, for his next contract, he will only earn $20 million.”

“Dwyane Wade is still on a Rookie contract. This should be the most ideal salary situation. Perhaps they won’t pay too much luxury tax!”

“Pat Riley is definitely a stingy guy. As long as the New York Knicks can maintain their current state, I don’t mind teaching them a lesson.”

Lee jokingly teased Pat Riley, which immediately made everyone burst into laughter.

Spending little money should result in small achievements.

Lee didn’t like the Heat’s team culture at all:

“Superstars should have privileges!”

…..

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

Source: Webnovel.com, updated by NovelKeep