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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 Thursday, December 16, 2004, regarding the incident that occurred last night at Auburn Hills Palace, NBA spokesperson Frank made a brief statement to the media:

“The NBA will not comment on this incident until it has been reviewed.”

There were only three games scheduled for the 16th, so the public began to pay close attention to the incident.

The New York Knicks and Detroit Pistons did not immediately speak out.

Instead, those who enjoyed a good show made things worse.

When Philadelphia sports media interviewed Allen Iverson, the former star, as always, showed his personality:

“You can’t blame the players for reacting that way!”

“Without a doubt, Ron Artest was protecting himself and his teammates. That white man threw beer, and someone punched him. Of course, the players will fight back.”

“If it were me, I would make the same choice!”

Vince Carter, who had recently been involved in trade rumors, also spoke to the media:

“In my opinion, some fans think they can do whatever they want, which is unfair to the players. Civilized play includes the fans as well.”

“Nobody likes to be splashed with beer or have objects thrown at them. Fans cannot harm players.”

Toronto fans had recently been quite hostile towards Vince Carter, believing he betrayed Toronto.

Vince Carter’s interview was also a way to subtly criticize his own fans.

Unlike his colleagues, on the ESPN program, host John Sanders did not dwell on the conflict but directly attacked Detroit Pistons fans:

“This isn’t the first time this has happened! If I remember correctly, during last year’s Eastern Conference Finals, Detroit Pistons fans started attacking players!”

“They aren’t there to watch the game. They’re there to vent their emotions. Perhaps they’ve encountered difficulties in their lives, but this chaos was absolutely caused by the fans.”

Last night, John Sanders commented sharply on the farce on his show, even calling Detroit Pistons fans “punks.”

On the show, Greg Anthony and Tim Legler did not say much last night, but after reviewing the video carefully today, they also spoke out:

“No doubt! If I got punched, I’d punch back.”

“Such behavior is indeed wrong, but the NBA should investigate thoroughly.”

Tim Legler also did not talk much about the fan who was “KO’d,” defending Ron Artest:

“There were only dozens of seconds left in the game, and the outcome was decided. Ron Artest performed very well. He made 4 steals and limited Williams.”

“Detroit Pistons fans were venting their emotions! This was chaos caused by fans, and I hope to see the NBA investigate it thoroughly.”

The NBA had not yet responded, but on the show, Stephen A. Smith avoided discussing the matter.

He knew that the three people beside him wanted to speak up for the players, but hitting a fan meant the situation had escalated.

David Stern would fine for dress code violations and improper remarks.

This kind of behavior would most likely lead to a direct suspension.

“I trust the NBA’s investigation, but what I’m very curious about now is whether Clay Lee can continue to lead the team to win.”

“Currently, they are performing exceptionally well, not just because of the schedule, but more because of Clay Lee’s performance!”

Noticing that his partners wanted to continue discussing the previous topic, Stephen A. Smith spoke again:

“If two key players are really missing, this might be an opportunity for other teams. Basketball is a five-person game. Clay Lee and the coaching staff need to prepare in advance.”

“Three consecutive championships, I don’t think anyone would refuse to achieve such a feat again.”

“…”

On Friday, December 17, the New York Knicks had already flown to Philadelphia in the morning.

Regardless of the NBA’s punishment, the game in the evening still had to go on.

Rookie Anderson Varejão was stunned last night.

He never expected such a conflict to occur in a regular season game.

Dikembe Mutombo, although he felt the NBA would impose a heavy penalty, believed that even if the NBA did impose a penalty, it would not affect the New York Knicks’ record.

After checking into the hotel, Anderson Varejão remained silent, while Dikembe Mutombo comforted Ron Artest:

“Don’t worry, Ron Artest, the NBA will investigate thoroughly. I don’t think the suspension will be too long.”

“Even if a fan sues you, the Players Union will stand up for you. After all, they made the first move.”

In December in Philadelphia, the weather had turned cold.

Ron Artest was wearing a baggy black hoodie, a small red hat, and somewhat baggy jeans, looking very dejected.

The most direct consequence of throwing a punch was a suspension, and a suspension would lead to financial losses.

Losing a large sum of money after a few punches would make anyone feel the sting.

Raja Bell and Amar’e Stoudemire were the same.

Their losses were estimated to be less, but afterward, knowing that Ben Wallace was breaking up the fight, it immediately made them depressed.

Lee didn’t like to make a fuss, so he still wore formal attire for away games, adding a black overcoat.

At this moment, he was discussing the NBA’s punishment with the coaching staff.

Before the game that evening, the NBA would announce the results.

Clay Lee believed David Stern would impose a heavy penalty because the media had already begun to attack safety issues.

Last night, Sky Sports in the UK also joined the commotion.

After Manchester United’s shareholder meeting, no acquisition agreement was reached, which made Lee the target of fan protests again recently.

They questioned why the NBA audience seats were so close to the court:

“Money versus safety, the NBA ultimately chose profit.”

Although Mike D’Antoni wasn’t surfing the internet, he was aware that the New York Knicks would likely be short-handed again:

“It’s almost afternoon now, so it seems we have to prepare for Artest’s absence from the regular season.”

Ewing, who had grown round, was somewhat annoyed.

Although he resented the fans’ provocation, he was equally displeased with Ron Artest’s heavy punch:

“If it were just a normal shove, Ron would at most be suspended for a few games. He couldn’t control his emotions. This is the worst choice!”

“I’ve said it before, those brothers only cause trouble, black people are all like this. Does he think he’s still that drug-dealing hooligan?”

“He earns millions of dollars every year. He’s a millionaire. But in recent years, he’s always been hanging out with those Niggas, and sooner or later, those people will spend all his money.”

Ewing and Oakley always liked to act like big shots, always insisting that once you have money, you should have some class, and not maintain the appearance of those hooligans.

When Ron Artest’s hangers-on were mentioned, Gorilla was particularly annoyed, even bringing up the old story of Ron Artest selling drugs when he was a child.

Lee had no interest in commenting on black culture.

This phenomenon is very common in the United States.

When a good brother becomes successful, his friends naturally follow suit.

“What I’m worried about is that after the suspension, the NBA will prohibit Ron Artest from participating in public training.”

“If he can’t play for half a season, that would definitely be a problem for a player in his ascending phase.”

When the others heard Lee’s words, they all shook their heads, indicating there was no solution.

At this point, it could only depend on the player’s self-discipline.

Even more troublesome was that the New York Media would not forget Ron Artest.

After being suspended, the public would be even more interested in seeing his daily life.

Grant Hill thought of the medical team’s previous suggestion and quietly proposed:

“Perhaps letting Ron fully undergo psychological treatment is also a good option.”

“Seeing a psychologist should help him with his emotional control issues.”

Grant Hill found it difficult to empathize with lower-class black players.

He sympathized with Ron Artest’s childhood experiences but also tacitly acknowledged his teammate’s psychological issues.

As the few of them chatted in low voices, the sports media quickly spotted Lee.

The Philadelphia reporters all had a schadenfreude mentality.

Noticing that the New York Knicks staff indicated that interviews were allowed, everyone swarmed towards Lee.

Although everyone wanted to interview those who had been pulled away, it was also good to hear Lee’s thoughts:

“Clat, if Ron Artest is suspended until the end of this season, will the New York Knicks be able to defend their title?”

Yahoo Sports didn’t ask about last night’s events.

The footage was clear, and they were more concerned with the championship’s outcome.

“The NBA hasn’t made a specific decision yet, but I believe in my teammates, and the New York Knicks will achieve a three-peat.”

The Philadelphia reporters smiled and eagerly asked Lee:

“Will the absence of two key players affect the New York Knicks’ strength?”

Lee had expected them to say they would end the New York Knicks’ winning streak, so he was surprised the question turned out to be so subtle:

“Of course, the absence of two key players will affect our strength.”

“For two consecutive seasons, we’ve achieved over 70 wins. This year, we might only get 60 wins. Everyone is prepared for losses.”

His words left everyone speechless and unable to refute, as 60 wins is also very difficult to achieve.

The NBA didn’t make the New York Knicks wait too long.

In the afternoon, NBA Commissioner David Stern issued a statement:

“The incident in last night’s game was shocking, and it is unforgivable for the NBA.”

“It is a disgrace to everyone associated with the NBA!”

“We have always emphasized that players are not allowed to enter the stands, regardless of any provocative actions by the fans watching the game. This is not permitted.”

“A detailed investigation is still underway. Please trust the NBA.”

“Before the investigation is officially concluded, the following actions will take effect immediately:

New York Knicks player Ron Artest and Detroit Pistons player Ben Wallace are suspended indefinitely.

The specific suspension period will be announced on Saturday.

New York Knicks players Raja Bell and Amar’e Stoudemire will be suspended for 4 games, and Detroit Pistons player Rasheed Wallace will be suspended for 6 games.”

Many sports reporters were surprised to hear about the indefinite suspensions.

This meant that the NBA might impose the heaviest penalty, and there was a high possibility that Ron Artest would not receive his remaining salary for this season.

After issuing the statement, David Stern did not accept many interviews, only saying that the NBA would release the final investigation results tomorrow.

Detroit Pistons CEO Tom Wilson also issued a statement:

“John Green has been a Detroit Pistons season ticket holder for many years, but starting today, Green will be banned from entering the Auburn Hills Palace.”

The Detroit Free Press reported in the evening that John Green, who threw the beer, was from West Bloomfield Township, and local prosecutor David Gorsica also stated to the media:

“Green has several criminal convictions and three prior drunk driving records.”

“Green’s probation condition was that he stop drinking. Clearly, he failed to keep his promise.”

When the Detroit Media asked if Ron Artest could claim self-Defense, Gorsica denied it:

“Even if someone throws beer, you don’t have a license to hit them.”

“More importantly, the fan who was knocked down was not the one who threw the beer.”

After this news was released, the onlookers burst into laughter:

“Ron Artest hit the wrong person!”

John Green, the person who threw the beer, also accepted an interview:

“I wish the whole thing hadn’t happened!”

“I’m sure the players involved in this regret it as much as I do, and the Detroit fans also don’t want to see such violent incidents.”

“I didn’t do it on purpose. Thinking back to everything that happened last night, it was truly terrifying!”

Before the game against the 76ers, after several pieces of news were released online, the New York fans were enraged and started to furiously criticize those who were gloating.

Most sports media outlets also felt somewhat speechless after seeing these pieces of news.

The whole incident seemed comical no matter how you looked at it.

That night, Tayshaun Prince started in the lineup, and the game proceeded as usual.

Philadelphia fans cheered passionately at the start, loudly supporting their home team.

Since 1996, they hadn’t defeated the New York Knicks in a regular season game, and tonight, everyone saw hope!

With a record of 9-12, the 76ers needed a win!

Allen Iverson partnered with Willie Green in the backcourt tonight, while the frontcourt consisted of Andre Iguodala, Kenny Thomas, and Dalembert.

With one big and four small players, as the game progressed, Allen Iverson and Kenny Thomas began to commit turnovers, helping the New York Knicks easily launch fast breaks.

Andre Iguodala, who was working hard on Defense, had a very low presence on offense.

In contrast, Allen Iverson stubbornly attacked as always, and the 76ers didn’t score for the first few minutes after the start.

Ultimately, it was Willie Green’s free throws that helped the team break their scoring drought.

Attempting to use faster ball movement to disrupt the New York Knicks’ Defense, the 76ers tried to slow down the game’s pace, but it didn’t have much effect.

29:14, at the end of the first quarter, the Philadelphia fans were utterly disappointed.

“Boo!”

During the quarter break, boos echoed throughout the arena, and a fully equipped Allen Iverson sat silently on the bench.

Andre Iguodala quietly glanced at his boss.

Allen Iverson usually had a strong leadership presence when playing against other teams, but it was different against the New York Knicks.

1-of-4 from the field, 1-of-2 from the free throw line, 3 points, 2 turnovers in a single quarter—Allen Iverson’s performance was as consistent as ever.

In the final game, the 76ers were possessed by a blacksmith from beyond the arc, only able to repeatedly attack the basket.

Kenny Thomas constantly made turnovers against the New York Knicks’ zone Defense, and the boos grew louder and louder.

They couldn’t narrow the score by halftime, and in the third quarter, the Philadelphia fans broke down again, with the score difference returning to the familiar 20 points.

After the garbage time ended in the fourth quarter, the score was 113:95, and the New York Knicks continued their winning streak.

Allen Iverson, who played with all his might, was on the court for 40 minutes, shooting 7-of-19 from the field, 0-of-2 from beyond the arc, and 6-of-8 from the free throw line, accumulating 20 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, 1 steal, and 6 turnovers.

The boos in the arena wouldn’t stop, and the Philadelphia fans on both sides of the player tunnel didn’t give Allen Iverson a good look either.

After the game, Andre Iguodala watched Willie Green and Clay Lee chatting and laughing, and after some hesitation, he chose to follow his boss through the player tunnel:

“Is this still our home court?”

Lee noticed the security personnel entering the arena early, and thinking of Ron Artest, who had already flown back to Manhattan, he could only shake his head secretly:

“Is the NBA going to make an example of us?”

On Saturday morning, December 18th, the NBA announced the final disciplinary results for the Auburn Hills Palace incident:

“New York Knicks player Ron Artest is prohibited from participating in the remainder of this season’s games.”

“Prohibited from participating in team training and public activities.”

In response to such a severe penalty, the Players Union immediately intervened, and President Billy Hunter once again stated:

“Such a penalty is unfair. We unanimously believe that a 35-game suspension would be more appropriate for Ron Artest.”

However, according to collective bargaining rules, the NBA has discretionary power over penalties for on-court conduct, and all appeals must go through David Stern.

On the evening of the 19th, the New York Knicks, returning to their home court, easily defeated the Utah Jazz, who were missing Kirilenko.

Although they won, the atmosphere at Madison Square Garden was still affected.

After the game, when interviewed by MSG, Lee no longer discussed the penalties.

After taking the microphone, he loudly assured the fans present:

“The New York Knicks will get through this tough season, and we will still win the championship!”

“Wow!”

The New York fans naturally believed Lee’s assurance.

Mike D’Antoni looked at the empty spot on the bench where Ron Artest used to be and couldn’t help but shake his head slightly:

“This is truly the worst outcome.”

…..

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Source: Webnovel.com, updated by NovelKeep