Chapitre 259: Chapter 259: The Underdog Rockets
Even though a lot of money was spent, the Rockets' performance remained underwhelming. Preseason games didn't mean much, but it gave sports commentators plenty to criticize.
William White wasn't too bothered by all of this. Olajuwon and Jordan were formidable, but they were not superhuman, and the Rockets were fundamentally weak. It wasn't that simple.
"Coach, don't mind what others say. We have our own TV station; those critics are nothing."
"Alright, the players still need to get familiar with each other, but they're all good, they won't let you down."
"Take it slowly, don't overstrain the players physically. How are the two newcomers? I've got a keen eye, haven't I?"
"They're great, really great. Although they're still a bit green, there's no doubt they're outstanding," Doug Collins was secretly thinking. Is this really your selection? They were top draft picks; anyone would have chosen them.
Despite his internal complaints, every coach would love a boss willing to spend big.
"Coach, how's the medical team?"
"Excellent, the two professional massage therapists are also very good."
The Rockets players were undoubtedly lucky. Their owner was not only wealthy but also amiable, and most importantly, he understood basketball.
Well, even if he's not a great player, that's rare enough. If you're not satisfied, try finding another basketball-playing owner in the league.
While the team was training, William White was just being a bystander. Fifteen minutes later, soaked in sweat, he politely took his leave.
Watching him depart, Doug Collins felt a sense of admiration. He had to admit, some people were just born with leadership qualities. In just a short interaction, he managed to bond with the players.
Many said William White just bought himself a toy. Doug Collins scoffed at this notion. There were plenty of rich owners, but how many genuinely cared about their players?
The guy who just left not only knew the players' names but also their nicknames and even joked about their past mishaps.
You all say someone who spends this much time is just playing with a toy? This guy is no ordinary rich man.
Some folks used to say this guy was the richest man in America, and many might not have agreed.
And now?
They can fight for second place; that top spot will remain uncontested for a long time.
...
"Mr. White, what do you think about the team's poor performance?"
"Haha, which paper are you from? Be careful, or I'll sue you for slander. I'm a really, really petty guy, so watch what you say."
"Alright, alright, I apologize. I was just judging from the previous preseason games and thought their performance wasn't great."
"You know, buddy, we're just underdogs. Turning things around isn't easy. Besides, this is almost a brand-new team; you need to be patient, the fans need to be patient. Even though we're underdogs, our goal is that ultimate trophy."
"Mr. White, if you'll forgive me, you've got a lot of money. You could buy more players."
William White shook his head with a rueful smile. "You know, that old fella David Stern already talked to me. If I go for the money-powered basketball, then I'll have to face high luxury taxes."
"Besides, I'm here to win the trophy, you get it, not to buy it." William White's exaggerated gestures made it clear who he was sarcastically criticizing.
Watching the television, David Stern was exasperated. Did I ever say you couldn't buy players to strengthen your team? I just didn't want to disrupt the balance, that's all.
Well, that was indeed his underlying message, but did you have to make it so obvious?
After White's complaints, the sports commentators fell silent. They weren't backing some media giant. As a critic, you could talk all you want; it's a matter of opinion, but it wouldn't result in much trouble.
TV stations?
Heh, got nothing better to do? NBC is an easy target? Better shut up, or you'll be out of a job.
Many said the Rockets were pitiful, but the big shots in the league didn't see it that way. If you knew it was just a preseason game, does Doug Collins not know that?
They weren't afraid of suddenly surging Rockets since that couldn't be sustained. But a Rockets team steadily building its foundation with such a wealthy owner? The league's future wouldn't be rosy.
...
"Huh? How come you have time to come over? Shouldn't you be helping your dad?"
"Not much drama, nothing to manage there."
"Heh, that storm's over. I say, that old guy flubbed his lines, right?"
Bush Jr. had a constipated look. "That old guy, don't be fooled by his age; he's lively as anything."
"No way! He's all old and worn out, and he still has those needs?"
"Ahem, I'm not talking about that. The old guy's all over the place. If the Russians take it seriously, we'll have big trouble."
"Nah, nah, the Russian missiles blow themselves up. They won't overreact."
"Sigh, you don't know. I was dumbfounded just standing outside listening."
William White really couldn't understand. He was just testing a microphone. Did he have to talk about wiping out Russians in five minutes? Is that something he should've said?
That's because the Russians are now a shadow of their former selves; if it were in Kennedy's time, they might have prepared for war. Even if it wasn't serious, a full radar alert would be necessary.
"George, is it over?"
"No contest. Even if some are worried he's too hardline."
"Hardline? Are you kidding? This guy's just reciting lines. Honestly, when he's retired, I'll consider hiring him to make a movie."
"Ahem, what a joke. You could have him for a speech, or writing memoirs, maybe. Movies? Not gonna happen."
"Sigh, perhaps I'll buy the films he made earlier and re-edit them."
"Heh, don't waste your time. The Secret Service already took care of it."
"Hmph, no wonder this guy got shot at. Turns out his capable men were off on side gigs. Let's drop it; what's your dad planning?"
"What else? Planning to take that top spot!"
"Don't worry; I've got your back."
"Yeah, thanks a lot."
*****
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État de l’alimentation hebdomadaire
-- Classement
Power Stone 
-- Power
stone