Chapter 23: Reporter Scout: Who is This Guy?
Wang Chong and Dwyane Wade, two of Marquette University's premier defensive players, were showcasing their defensive prowess with a double-team strategy on Carmelo Anthony. Their combined effort was proving overwhelmingly effective.
Wade, demonstrating his exceptional speed and agility, brought the ball up the court with purpose. Under the pressure of the opposing guard, he executed his signature move, the Phantom Step. With deft movements, Wade stepped left and right, creating confusion with his unpredictable direction. The defender, momentarily disoriented, watched helplessly as Wade elevated and effortlessly sunk a basket.
Anthony, unperturbed by Wade's successful play, focused his attention on Wang Chong. His voice was edged with disdain. "You can't handle him on your own, so you bring help? Is this your approach?"
Wang Chong shrugged, his expression nonchalant. "Which NBA star doesn't get double-teamed and still manage to score? If you can't handle this, how do you expect to make it to the NBA?"
Wang Chong's remark was valid. Basketball is a team sport, and expecting to dominate single-handedly while neglecting team dynamics is unrealistic.
In crucial moments, James is often criticized for his playmaking rather than taking the shot himself. Conversely, Kobe Bryant's relentless shooting, even when double-teamed, has often been both revered and criticized. While Bryant's approach could lead to spectacular wins, it also resulted in many missed opportunities.
The question was which category Anthony fell into. Wang Chong wasn't entirely sure, but given Anthony's role as Syracuse University's central player, he seemed to align more with Bryant's mentality—thrive in isolation and take on the challenge head-on.
"Really? Then let me show you how a star player should handle this!"
Anthony's reaction to Wang Chong's taunt was predictable. Provoked and eager to prove himself, he was determined to assert his dominance.
On the next possession, Syracuse University continued to focus on Anthony. Despite his resolve to play one-on-one against Wang Chong, he was wary of the double-team. Seeing Wade approaching, Anthony opted for a quick turnaround jump shot, trying to avoid Wang Chong's interference.
However, the rushed shot, coupled with Wang Chong's relentless defense, resulted in a miss.
Marquette University swiftly seized the defensive rebound. Wade, pushing the pace on a fast break, executed a flashy behind-the-back pass to Wang Chong, who was waiting on the perimeter. Wang Chong smoothly transitioned into a shot from twenty-two feet away.
"Swish!"
The ball sailed through the net with precision.
Syracuse University immediately called a timeout. The score gap had widened to a 10-point lead for Marquette University. In the realm of NCAA basketball, a 10-point deficit was significant and demanded immediate intervention.
The Syracuse coach, observing Anthony's frustration as he walked off the court, sighed inwardly. Anthony's journey from high school to college had been relatively unchallenged. The current situation, with Wang Chong putting him under constant pressure, was an unfamiliar and testing experience.
Despite Anthony's evident talent, his current struggle against Wang Chong's defense was causing an imbalance in his mindset. The coach knew that Anthony's previous success and strong physical and mental attributes would help him adjust, but it was crucial to focus on the team's overall success.
"Cameron, calm down. You're getting caught up in a vicious cycle. Competing with that Asian guy is not the goal. You're a superstar, destined for the NBA. What matters now is leading your team to victory and showcasing your strengths to the scouts, not just proving a point against one player."
The coach's words helped Anthony regain his composure. For Anthony, reaching the NBA was the ultimate goal, and winning the game took precedence over personal vendettas.
"Got it, Coach. What should I do?"
Anthony's inquiry was met with a nod of approval from the coach. "Excellent. The opponent is clearly targeting you, using double-teams as a tactic. Wade and that Asian guy are both strong defensively. It's challenging to break through their double-team. When Wade comes to help, pass the ball and trust your teammates."
Though the Syracuse players were not all NBA prospects, they were reliable and capable. Anthony had previously leaned on his teammates during crucial moments, such as in the finals against the University of Kansas, where he faced difficulties but eventually found his rhythm with team support.
Anthony acknowledged the coach's advice. "Okay, Coach, I understand."
After a brief respite, the players from both teams reassembled on the court.
Anthony resumed his offensive efforts, determined to take on Wang Chong. As Wade approached to assist, Anthony quickly passed the ball to an open teammate beyond the three-point line, who capitalized on the opportunity with a successful shot.
Wade glanced at Wang Chong. "Looks like we're going to need to keep our defense tight."
Wang Chong, unfazed, responded with confidence. "No problem. I'll keep him under control."
As the third quarter progressed, both teams exhibited high offensive efficiency. By the end of the period, Marquette University held a 6-point lead, slightly reduced from their earlier 10-point advantage but still maintaining the upper hand.
Anthony, despite finding success in passing the ball to teammates, struggled to score against Wang Chong's one-on-one defense. Wang Chong's relentless pressure made it difficult for Anthony to find clear shooting opportunities, leading him to force plays inside, which were often contested and missed. Anthony's strength alone wasn't enough to overcome Wang Chong's persistent and effective defense.
The scene had left the scouts, initially focused on Anthony, in a state of astonishment.
Is Wang Chong's defense truly this effective?
Throughout the game's first three quarters, Wang Chong's defense had been exemplary, particularly his close and tight coverage, which made life challenging for Anthony. Observers were starting to question how someone with Anthony's NBA-level potential could be contained by a player like Wang Chong.
The scouts were now asking themselves: Who exactly is this guy?
End of this chapter
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