Chapter 90: Asian Championships
After receiving the ball, Lian Dao decided to attack inside, relying on the footwork skills he had learned from Yao Ming. However, when he attempted to back Yao Ming down with his strength, he realized for the first time that he lacked the physical advantage.
With strength not being an option, Lian Dao opted for different tactics. Dribbling along the baseline, he attempted a drive towards the basket, feinting a layup. Yao Ming, however, was quick to defend and blocked Lian Dao's initial attempt.
Taking advantage of Yao Ming's defensive commitment, Lian Dao swiftly pivoted away towards the perimeter, faking a shot. Yet again, Yao Ming anticipated the move and contested the shot.
Just as Lian Dao thought he had shaken Yao Ming off, he attempted a layup, only to have Yao Ming's large hand swat the ball away against the backboard.
Confused, Lian Dao wondered how Yao Ming had recovered so quickly after seemingly being fooled by his fake moves earlier.
"Your movements are too predictable. To deceive defenders effectively, make your fakes more convincing and fluid. And remember to use your pivot steps with better form," Yao Ming pointed out directly, identifying Lian Dao's issue.
Reflecting on Yao Ming's feedback, Lian Dao realized that Yao Ming had anticipated his fakes and adjusted his defense accordingly. Yao Ming had cleverly feigned vulnerability to lure Lian Dao into driving towards the basket, all while maintaining his defensive position.
Over the next nine attempts, Lian Dao managed to score only twice. The rest of his shots were either blocked or hurried layups that missed their mark in an effort to avoid Yao Ming's defense.
Thus, finding success on the court was proving more challenging than expected.
"Do you feel that NBA defenses are much stronger than those in the NCAA?" Yao Ming asked, studying Lian Dao intently.
Taking a moment to collect himself, Lian Dao nodded in agreement.
To be honest, today's one-on-one matchup with Yao Ming in the paint had been eye-opening for him. While Lian Dao had dominated inside play against many opponents, facing Yao Ming showed him the physical demands of NBA-level competition.
In the NBA, battles in the post are inevitable once you reach the fourth position. Against someone like Thabeet, Lian Dao could rely on his strength to overpower him, but Yao Ming's defense posed a different challenge altogether.
Reflecting on his journey so far, Lian Dao realized that perhaps things had been a bit too smooth.
"Indeed, inside offense and physicality are crucial," Yao Ming continued, his tone serious.
"Your height and build can certainly play effectively at the 3rd and 4th positions, depending on the team's needs. But regardless of position, adapting quickly to the NBA is key."
"While you may face strength disadvantages against players like me, it's more than sufficient for the 3rd and 4th positions," Yao Ming added, offering a perspective on Lian Dao's potential roles in the league.
During their earlier post-up exchanges, Yao Ming had been surprised by Lian Dao's strength. He hadn't expected such power from someone who didn't possess a particularly imposing physique. Yet, as an experienced veteran, Yao Ming couldn't afford to underestimate any opponent, especially someone he saw potential in like Lian Dao.
Yao Ming wanted Lian Dao to enter the NBA with a mindset of continuous improvement and readiness for the challenges ahead.
Unbeknownst to Lian Dao, this encounter in Houston had provided him with valuable insights. It wasn't just about physical strength but also about mental preparation and realizing that there's always room to grow.
Winning the NCAA MOP had been a significant achievement, but it was moments like these that reminded Lian Dao that the journey to NBA success was filled with formidable opponents and endless possibilities for improvement.
Yao Ming and Lian Dao also shared a friendly chat about Yao's rookie experiences.
"By the way, there's something I want to ask if you're interested in," Yao Ming said after discussing his early challenges in the league.
Lian Dao, intrigued, responded, "What is it, Brother Yao?"
"Would you be interested in joining this year's Asian Championships?" Yao Ming asked.
"The Asian Championships?" Lian Dao was taken aback by the unexpected proposition.
"Let me explain. This year, the Asian Championships run from August 6th to 16th, overlapping somewhat with the Summer League, which is scheduled from August 9th to 18th. Since it's being held in our home country, it's received considerable attention from higher authorities."
He continued, "If you decide to participate, it would require advanced training, potentially disrupting your current schedule. It's crucial to see if your team agrees, as it could impact your preparation for the NBA during the Summer League."
Yao Ming grinned, adding, "But if you're tight on time, you should stay behind, the Summer League itself offers a great opportunity to get a feel for the NBA rhythm beforehand."
Since China is hosting the Asian Championships this time, there's significant importance attached to the event. Just last year, China showcased a distinct Olympic style following the conclusion of the Olympic Games.
In the previous year, the men's basketball team achieved a top-eight record, fostering anticipation for them to stand prominently on the world stage. Therefore, this year's goal for the team is clear-cut: reclaim the championship and re-establish dominance in Asian basketball.
Moreover, Yi Jianlian's evident progress after his NBA stint has garnered attention. Hence, facing Lian Dao, the NCAA championship MOP, the men's basketball team is keen to explore his potential.
Yao Ming's interest in having Lian Dao join stems from recognizing the team's current lack of a proficient scorer with strong organizational and passing skills. The team's notable deficiency lies in players who can effectively orchestrate plays.
It's not just Yao Ming; many in China watched Lian Dao's NCAA games through live broadcasts, gaining a solid understanding of his abilities. Hence, Yao Ming sought Lian Dao's opinion on the matter.
Given that Lian Dao isn't part of the formal recruitment system, any decision ultimately hinges on his personal arrangements and preferences.
After Yao Ming finished speaking, he turned his gaze towards Lian Dao, waiting for his decision.
"I can't say for sure right now," Lian Dao replied after a moment of thought. He did have some familiarity with the Asian Championships.
Being hosted in China, the tournament garnered significant domestic attention. Lian Dao recalled the recent Asian Championships where the Chinese team secured second place but failed to reclaim their dominant position in Asia.
In a pivotal final match, the team faced a collective breakdown, suffering a humiliating 52-70 defeat to the Iranian team. This game marked several ignominious records: the lowest score in a single quarter (10 points), the lowest score in a half (25 points), and the largest margin of loss in Asian Championships history (18 points, surpassing the previous 16 points). It was also the first time they lost the championship at home.
The aftermath was tumultuous, with Sun Yue, Zhu Fangyu, and Du Feng's alleged internal issues becoming public, leading to Coach Guo Shiqiang's resignation. This tournament marked the start of a six-year slump for the men's basketball team, only breaking their streak to win the Asian Championship again in 2015.
Despite criticisms, the Asian Championship remained a significant international event. If possible, Lian Dao expressed interest in participating. However, without having participated in the draft yet and uncertain which team might select him, he couldn't make a definitive decision.
"I don't even know what the team that drafts me will think," Lian Dao added with a shrug.
"Don't worry about it now. You can give me an answer after the draft," Yao Ming reassured him with a smile, understanding Lian Dao's concerns.
Lian Dao nodded in agreement. As the evening grew late, Yao Ming suggested they grab a meal together, and Lian Dao accepted, continuing their conversation as they exited the Toyota Center.
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