章 82: The Legend's Pep Talk
During halftime, Southern California strategized for the second half: they would focus on shooting from the outside or driving to the basket to draw fouls from Danny Green.
If they could get Danny Green out of the game, Lian Dao would have more freedom on the court.
Without Danny Green's defensive prowess, the University of North Carolina would have a vulnerable perimeter defense, potentially leading them to double-team Lian Dao.
Meanwhile, during halftime, Braised Dan barged into the University of North Carolina's locker room.
"Hey guys, hello!" Braised Dan's entrance interrupted Roy Williams' lecture.
Roy Williams initially frowned at the interruption, wondering who had the audacity to disrupt his speech. When he saw that it was Michael Jordan, he immediately changed his demeanor.
"Roy, let me tell these kids how to play!" Jordan's voice filled the room with authority.
Roy and Jordan embraced warmly. They had known each other for years; Roy had been an assistant coach at North Carolina when Jordan played there. Roy had also played a significant role in convincing Jordan to choose North Carolina.
Despite feeling uneasy about Jordan's unannounced presence, Roy chose not to object. He hoped Jordan's presence would uplift the North Carolina players.
So Roy Williams stepped back, giving Jordan the floor to address the team.
"Guys, don't be so dejected. You're only 7 points behind. It's no big deal. You just need to make three more three-pointers and defend the opponent's shots or layups, and we can overtake the score," Jordan said confidently.
Jordan's pep talk aligned perfectly with his reputation; many observers noted, "Jordan's biggest flaw is making basketball look easy."
"Danny, don't give the opponent any chances," Jordan addressed Danny Green first.
"What are you worried about? You've given that kid too many opportunities in the first half. If he dares shoot from the outside, jump up and contest him!"
Danny Green hesitated, wanting to explain, but Jordan's intense stare silenced him.
"It would be even better if you shut him down completely. Stay glued to him so he can't get a shot off. You're faster than him, so even if he tries to drive, you'll catch up," Jordan added with authority.
Unable to challenge Jordan's advice, Danny nodded obediently, absorbing every word.
Immediately, Jordan turned his attention to Tyler Hansbrough.
"Tyler, you weigh 113 kilograms, can't you handle that guy on the opposite side? You've got to fight! Make him feel your presence inside, what are you afraid of?"
Tyler Hansbrough grinned awkwardly but didn't offer any excuses.
Initially, when Lian Dao defended at the fifth position, Hansbrough hadn't paid much attention. Even after witnessing Lian Dao dunking over Thabeet in their previous encounter, Hansbrough attributed it more to Thabeet's lack of preparedness rather than Lian Dao's prowess.
However, facing Lian Dao head-on now, Hansbrough quickly realized it wasn't just about impact; it was about sheer dominance.
Jordan frowned slightly at Hansbrough's initial response.
"Tyler, if the Chinese kid can do it, why can't you? He shoots three-pointers, so can you. He attacks with the ball, and you can pass—though maybe passing isn't your strongest suit right now. But today, he hasn't had all the opportunities to showcase his passing skills."
"So, Tyler, you've got skills inside. Use them to outplay him!"
Tyler Hansbrough felt a surge of encouragement at Jordan's words and nodded vigorously
Immediately, Michael Jordan shifted his attention to the other players.
Roy Williams glanced helplessly at his assistant coach. They both knew Jordan hadn't changed over the years.
After a while, Jordan finished his "tactical guidance".
Roy Williams exchanged pleasantries with him and swiftly ushered him out of the locker room.
It felt like banishing a relentless spirit!
Soon after, Roy tactfully made a few adjustments to Jordan's instructions.
Back from the intermission, both teams resumed play in the second half.
On the USC side, Lian Dao continued to take charge with the ball. This time, Danny Green's defense was tight and close.
With you guarding me so closely, it'd be embarrassing if I didn't break through, thought Lian Dao.
After a quick dribble, Lian Dao made a decisive move, swiftly passing Danny Green.
He then accelerated into a three-step layup.
Unexpectedly, Danny Green managed to keep pace. Their speeds were almost identical.
Though Lian Dao was slightly behind with the ball, he persisted with his layup despite Danny Green's defense.
As he leaped, Lian Dao maneuvered to evade Danny Green's attempted block, but Danny's hand grazed Lian Dao's arm.
Instinctively, Lian Dao flicked the basketball towards the hoop—swish!
The ball spun on the rim before dropping in.
And-one!
Lian Dao calmly sank the free throw.
50:43!
Danny Green committed his fourth foul.
Jordan shook his head in disappointment from the stands. "The comprehension ability of North Carolina players this year is really poor!"
"Do you think North Carolina still has a chance?" Larry Bird asked mockingly.
Jordan, maintaining his confidence, replied, "Of course, North Carolina will definitely make a comeback!"
Larry Bird sneered. "Do you like that Chinese kid?" he asked, noticing Bird's focus on Lian Dao.
"It's useless to be optimistic. Your Pacers have no chance this year," Jordan added.
"If you don't try, how do you know?" Bird responded confidently.
Jordan couldn't help but admire Bird's confidence. As the only person in NBA history to achieve a regular season MVP, Finals MVP, Coach of the Year, and later the Best Manager Award, Bird's accomplishments were unparalleled.
Bird's interest in Lian Dao sparked an idea in Jordan's mind: Should I cut off his chance and get Lian Dao for the Bobcats?
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