Chapter 14: Chapter 14: New York's Attention
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### Post-Semifinal Celebration
After the anticipated semifinal victory, the North Carolina Wolfpack team headed to a renowned barbecue restaurant in Oklahoma City, where they enjoyed a hearty meal.
Wang Song declined his teammates' invitation to celebrate further and returned to the hotel. The legal drinking age in America differed from China's, and Wang Song wasn't flush with cash.
Coming from a middle-class family in China, Wang Song's situation in the affluent United States was quite different. His education and basketball pursuits were largely funded by his parents and supplemented by school scholarships. Without this support, Wang Song might have become a basketball coach instead.
The financial strain on his parents was significant, and Wang Song hesitated to ask for more. Being a student with no income was normal; once he made it to the professional league, money would just be numbers.
Thus, the midnight celebrations didn't interest him much. He was more curious about the experience points he earned today.
"2500, huh?"
The system panel showed a number. As expected, Wang Song didn't hesitate and allocated 2 attribute points to his under-basket skills. His personal attribute panel updated accordingly.
Under-basket attribute: 76!
Strengthening his under-basket game was his priority. This was the early 21st century, the era of muscle-bound players, with fewer restrictions on physical play. The NCAA, as the NBA's training ground, mirrored the professional league's standards.
With the progression of the "March Madness" tournament, Wang Song knew the opponents would only get tougher. Especially now, having reached the regional finals, every game would be a hard battle.
Based on his memory, if correct, their final opponent, Syracuse University, was the NCAA champion in 2003.
### In New York
#### A Noteworthy Call
Zhong Yuan had been in New York for four days, thoroughly enjoying the city's nightlife.
"Eastern regional finals? In New York? Alright, alright... What's the budget for this? I think if we move quickly, signing an endorsement deal won't be too costly…"
The call ended with a series of beeps.
Hearing the numbers on the other end left Zhong Yuan's mouth agape. He pushed away the American woman beside him and adjusted his tie. The effect of the alcohol dissipated instantly, clearing his mind.
The investor's call had reminded him of his mission in the U.S., almost forgotten amidst the revelry.
"Why do I feel this sudden task is more important than securing the broadcast rights?"
From the investor's tone, Zhong Yuan deduced: "It seems the boss has a bigger agenda! The endorsement is the main goal, and the broadcast rights are just a bonus."
With decades of experience, the New Fox Sports executive concluded.
Instantly, the once reveling executive transformed. His clear eyes reflected newfound focus.
Even the American women cheered as he paid the bill.
"Securing broadcast rights and signing an endorsement deal will make New Fox Sports better! Everything is moving in a positive direction."
#### Knicks' Front Office
Meanwhile, in the Knicks' front office, lights burned late into the night. With the playoffs approaching, all teams scrambled to strengthen their rosters, and the Knicks were no exception.
Despite being in a major market, the Knicks had been floundering, missing the playoffs for several years. The owner's dissatisfaction had led to an ultimatum for the current management team: if they didn't rebuild the team within two years, the entire management and coaching staff would be overhauled.
This pressure had everyone on edge. Scott Layden, the Knicks' president, was no exception. Tasked with team operations, he bore the brunt of the responsibility for failing to deliver results despite substantial funding.
"Ernie, is this the scouting report on that player?"
Layden glanced at the document on his desk. Knicks' scouting director, Ernie Grunfeld, nodded affirmatively.
"Yes, sir. This is the scouting report on the Asian center."
"Height and wingspan look good. But... why is there only the head coach's contact? Haven't you got his personal contact?"
Layden's tone suddenly sharpened. His expressionless face turned stern, making the office atmosphere tense.
Grunfeld apologized, "Mr. Layden, we tried contacting the North Carolina Wolfpack coaching staff, but they haven't provided his contact info. We've been unable to reach Wang Song directly."
Seeing Layden's frown deepen, Grunfeld quickly added, "But we have a plan. The Eastern regional finals will be held in Albany. I'll be there to scout him in person and complete a detailed report…"
"Hmm!"
Layden's face remained unreadable.
"No, I'll join you. The team isn't in the playoffs, so I have time to observe firsthand. Arrange it."
"China is a huge market, and we must show genuine sincerity!"
Layden's calm tone alarmed Grunfeld. When a boss steps in to do your job, it signals dissatisfaction with your performance. Given the Knicks' poor draft record in recent years, Grunfeld understood.
### Albany University Main Arena
The Albany University main arena, comparable to a small NBA venue, could hold 15,000 people. Despite its size, the arena was packed for the Eastern regional finals.
The moment fans entered, they were captivated by the grand scene.
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