Chapter 115: Chapter 115: "How Did You do that shit?"

Irving bounced the ball with precision, making a crisp pass to Tatum. Tatum's technical prowess was undeniable as a 2017 third overall pick and a Kobe disciple. Unfazed by Durant's height and reach, Tatum launched a tough, fadeaway jump shot, nailing it with a style that echoed Kobe's unmistakable touch, drawing gasps from the home crowd. 6-4. The Celtics retook the lead.

Back on the Warriors' side, Tang Lei found Durant, who sank a smooth three-pointer over the defense. 7-6. The Warriors inched ahead. Both teams started out hot, trading shot for shot without missing a beat.

In the next sequence, however, Irving's flashy dribble got picked off by Tang Lei's impressive wingspan. With a quick push, Tang Lei ignited a fast break, setting up Iguodala for what seemed like a surefire dunk. Yet, the ball clanked off the rim, deflecting into the hands of Celtics' Marcus Morris, who capitalized on the other end with a three-pointer. 9-7, Celtics.

Iguodala, visibly disappointed, let out a sigh. A layup missed, only to be answered by an opponent's three-pointer—there was little else to do but shake his head.

"Get ready for the ball next time," Tang Lei said, patting Iguodala's shoulder as he tried to lift his spirits.

"You mean, I should set a screen?" Iguodala asked, slightly taken aback. Typically, his role focused on defense and setting screens, not scoring.

"No need. Just be ready to catch it," Tang Lei assured him. Iguodala nodded, heading upcourt with the team.

Tang Lei brought the ball up.

"Come on then. This time, you're not getting past me!" Irving said, widening his stance and locking eyes with Tang Lei, his intensity on full display.

"Well, we'll see about that," Tang Lei replied coolly, feeling his own competitive drive kick into gear.

Tang Lei began dribbling at a measured pace, each bounce of the ball echoing louder as his dribbling intensified, speeding up and resonating through the arena.

With a sudden surge, he accelerated, pushing the ball forward. Irving reacted instantly, staying with him step-for-step. Known for his acute feel for pace and direction, Irving anticipated Tang Lei's movement.

Midway through the drive, Tang Lei abruptly stopped, pulling the ball back before shifting to his right. Irving was unfazed, quickly cutting off Tang Lei's path. Observing Tang Lei's grip on the ball, Irving recognized the setup—this was going to be a back pass to Livingston in the corner. A self-assured smile spread across his face. To Irving, this was amateur hour—attempting a flashy pass in front of a master was like "showing a sword to a samurai."

In a split second, Irving extended his hand, ready to intercept what he assumed would be an easy steal. But to his shock, Tang Lei's behind-the-back pass defied his expectation, spinning left instead of right, defying Newtonian physics to land perfectly in Iguodala's hands on the other side.

Iguodala, too, was momentarily puzzled, staring at the ball in his hands. But within a fraction of a second, he realized the opportunity. With no defender in sight, he leaped up for the slam, and despite Horford's desperate contest, Iguodala threw it down.

And-one!

Still in disbelief, Irving approached Tang Lei, eyes wide with amazement.

"How did you even manage that pass?" he asked, as if searching for the trick behind a magic act. Standing right before Tang Lei, Irving had seen the movement, yet still couldn't grasp the skill Tang Lei had used to pull it off.

Above them, the jumbotron replayed the play, showcasing Tang Lei's behind-the-back pass that had duped Irving and found its mark perfectly. Gasps and cheers filled TD Garden as the crowd marveled at the beauty of the play.

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