"Thank you, Tang. I don't know how to thank you enough."
The chance to have it back made Xiao Gen very happy.
She was so excited that she couldn't speak for a moment. It was Tang Long who patiently encouraged her, occasionally telling a humorous joke to keep her relaxed.
Gradually, Xiao Gen's professionalism allowed her to find her rhythm. The subsequent interview became very smooth, with both of them asking and answering questions in a relaxed manner, as if they were old friends who had known each other for many years.
Tang Long also learned at this time that Xiao Gen had half Dragon Country blood.
"You're welcome. I hope the next time we meet, you'll be the pillar of the sports channel. At that time, I promise you that I'll invite the entire Cavaliers team to be interviewed by you."
"Really?"
Xiao Gen looked at Tang Long excitedly.
Throughout the league, apart from special events, inviting the entire team for an interview was almost unheard of. If she truly had this opportunity, it would be a significant achievement in her career.
"Of course, it's true. I, China Tang, always keep my word."
"Tang, thank you so much. I know words can't repay you now, but I can only wish you victory against Phoenix City and achieve a 28-game winning streak."
As she spoke, a blush spread across Xiao Gen's cheeks. "I'll be a sideline reporter for this game as well. If you're willing to have a couple of drinks after the game, I... I'll agree."
Xiao Gen was a bit shy. After saying this, she quickly ran out, leaving only a faint scent of perfume.
Bill Daffy looked at Tang Long with envy. "Tang, I'm starting to get a little jealous of your charm with women. This Xiao Gen, with her curves, while not as beautiful as Scarlett, has a unique allure. She's the kind of woman men dream of."
"Look at your ambition."
Tang Long rolled his eyes at him, annoyed. "I'm warning you, keep a close eye on all these gossip news. I don't want any of it to affect my playing."
"You're practically doubting my professionalism," Bill Daffy protested indignantly.
Then, as if remembering something, he added, "By the way, Shaq will definitely say something disrespectful before the game. If you don't want to engage with him, just ignore him. Whatever you do, don't get into a verbal spat with him."
"Verbal spat?" Tang Long chuckled. "I haven't conceded to anyone in that regard. Let him come."
Tang Long knew Shaquille O'Neal quite well.
Shaq was the lovable type. The most classic example was when he deliberately pranked Kobe during the filming of Saw.
But speaking of the past, the number one center in history was truly deserving of his title.
Even now, though he was old, the phrase "Lian Po, old but still able to feast" applied. With his weight of over 290 pounds and height of 7 feet 1 inch, anyone who underestimated him would surely regret it.
Of course.
Tang Long was aware of Shaquille O'Neal's weakness.
It was the infamous Hack-a-Shaq strategy.
His free throw shooting was simply terrible.
Furthermore, Phoenix City primarily employed a run-and-gun offense, which was even more taxing than the Rockets'. Yao Ming was still in his prime, let alone an aging Shaq with his massive frame.
This was also why O'Neal hadn't performed at his full potential in Phoenix City.
The ultra-fast offensive pace, spectacular alley-oops, dazzling offensive maneuvers – the run-and-gun offense had once led the league, and it was also Coach Mike D'Antoni's most glorious years!
Phoenix City's run-and-gun offense was a constant headache for traditional teams in the league. Tall and strong centers could only become background figures, watching small forwards weave through the offense. It was difficult for the big centers to utilize their strengths.
However, this strategy could only be effective in the regular season. Once the playoffs began, with everyone focusing on defense, the run-and-gun offense lost its fast-paced offensive space and was restricted from the outset.
This was also why D'Antoni had recruited O'Neal.
Shaq was the player with the most championship rings on the team, possessing extensive playoff experience, and as a traditional center, he could also anchor the half-court offense.
Unfortunately, despite D'Antoni's good intentions, Phoenix City, accustomed to the run-and-gun, often used O'Neal primarily for rebounding.
Of course, Phoenix City indeed had the capability for a run-and-gun offense at this time.
Besides Steve Nash, Marion and Amar'e Stoudemire were also gradually making a name for themselves in the league.
Against Phoenix City, even if you didn't want to speed up, you would occasionally get caught up in their rhythm.
"Tang, you are now a center who is closely following your team in all sorts of league statistics. Some people outside are also saying that Tang is the successor to traditional centers. What are your thoughts on these remarks?"
At the pre-game press conference, Katherine posed another tricky question.
"I think it's great."
O'Neal pulled the microphone closer. "The league doesn't pay much attention to traditional centers anymore, but I want to say that for a team to go far in the playoffs, or even win a championship, they still need a strong center as an anchor."
"Shaq, are you complaining that you're not getting enough attention in Phoenix City?"
Olney's face immediately fell.
Katherine was indeed very annoying.
Since he hadn't fallen for her trick, she immediately put him on the spot.
But as a veteran who had been in the league for many years, how could Olney be cornered by a mere reporter?
"That's precisely why I came to Phoenix City. Alright, let's let the reporters ask questions."
"Wait."
Katherine clearly wasn't willing to let this opportunity slip away. Holding her microphone, she continued, "So Shaq, this matchup against the Cavaliers can be considered a clash between the old and new generations of centers in the league. If you lose to Tang Long, will you congratulate him after the game?"
"Lose?" O'Neal couldn't help but laugh. "Then you should ask if Tang will cry if he loses."
After saying this, O'Neal immediately regretted it.
He knew he had fallen for the reporter's trap.
As expected, Katherine happily held up her microphone and said, "Okay, I'll pass that message on to Tang."
O'Neal felt like cursing now.
...
"Tang, this matchup between you and Shaq. Many people are discussing it as a clash between old and new centers before the game, but you can't get caught up in it. If you get into a half-court battle with O'Neal, we won't be able to target the opponent's weaknesses."
Both mainstream media and fans were now very interested in the confrontation between Tang Long and O'Neal.
Before the game, Mike Brown had conducted a detailed study of Phoenix City's tactics. If Tang Long was solely focused on competing with O'Neal for the title of the best center, he would be abandoning their advantages.
"Coach Brown, don't worry. I have a very effective method for dealing with Shaquille O'Neal."
Saying this, Tang Long pulled Pavlovic over and whispered a few words in his ear.
...