"Coach Jonas, how do you see Coach Krzyzewski of the USA suggesting China has a chance to win the championship?"
At China's pre-game press conference, a reporter posed the same question.
This reporter started by flattering Jonas, then immediately brought up China's chances of winning.
"The gold medal is indeed within reach, no one can deny that. The competition has reached this point, and everyone wants this gold medal. We will give our all. As for whether we can defeat the USA, that will depend on the players' performance."
Jonas's answer was well-measured.
At least the reporter didn't detect any overconfidence from his response.
Another reporter then stood up to ask a question, this time directed at Tang Long.
"Tang Long, we all know you've been the team's leading scorer since the group stage. If China defeats the USA, but Yao Ming gets..."
At this moment, Yao Ming stumbled, almost tripping himself. Although he quickly regained his balance, the advantageous position under the basket had already been occupied by Howard. Howard then reached out to receive the ball. As Deron was about to pass it to him, he saw Tang Long loitering near Howard not far away.
This was Tang Long's favorite spot, where his steal success rate was very high. Deron hesitated and did not pass the ball to Howard, choosing to attack himself instead.
Swish.
2 points.
The USA scored first.
China immediately responded. After Sun Yue brought the ball past half-court, he executed a pick-and-roll with Tang Long. Tang Long not only made the shot but also drew a foul on Howard.
2+1.
The score became 3:2.
With the change of possession, the USA attacked again, from the same position, with Howard still occupying the advantageous spot.