Capítulo 147: The game
As the game approached, the anticipation within the stadium was palpable. Fans donning Carlos's number 0 jerseys waved banners and held up supportive flags, cheering for him and the Suns.
The Suns, returning to their home court with a 21-game winning streak after four away games, were greeted with deafening cheers from the home crowd. This overwhelming support even applied a form of invisible pressure to the Rockets players, who hadn't even started warming up.
Despite the intense atmosphere, the Rockets were determined not to repeat the mistakes of others who had fallen to the Suns, intent on preventing the Suns from breaking the record over them.
Both teams engaged in earnest warm-ups, preparing for the contest ahead.
Meanwhile, across the ocean in Mexico, the national sports broadcaster's studio was abuzz with excitement. Commentators Mario and Jose discussed the significance of the night, highlighting Carlos's impact on Mexican basketball and the anticipation of fans for the potential record-equaling victory.
In a heartwarming show of support, Gustavo Ayon, who had been out due to injury, was present at the game in a suit, indicating his active recovery. Despite being a Rockets player, it was evident to discerning viewers that he hoped for Carlos's victory—though he couldn't outright express it without facing criticism.
As the warm-up session came to an end, the starting lineups took the court:
For the Phoenix Suns:
Steve Nash (PG) at 191 cm
Stephen Curry (SG) at 191 cm
Vince Carter (SG/SF) at 198 cm
Channing Frye (PF) at 211 cm
Carlos (C) at 215 cm
For the Houston Rockets:
Kyle Lowry (PG) at 185 cm
Kevin Martin (SG) at 201 cm
Shane Battier (SF) at 203 cm
Chuck Hayes (PF) at 198 cm
Luis Scola (C) at 206 cm
With the stage set and the players ready, the atmosphere was charged with the tension and excitement of a potentially historic night in the NBA.
As the game began, Carlos immediately established his presence on the court. The jump ball was a quick victory for him, showcasing his full condition as he effortlessly tapped the ball to Curry, who passed it to Nash to initiate the Suns' first offensive play.
Nash's acceleration attracted defense, leading to a back pass to Carter, who was up against Lowry's staunch defense. Despite the height advantage, Carter struggled to score. Lowry, embodying the nickname 'little cannon,' showcased his tenacity and defensive prowess by successfully stopping the Suns' consecutive attempts and even snatching a rebound and initiating a counterattack.
Yet, the Suns' were quick to adjust. Carlos blocked the Rocket's attempt and swiftly transferred the ball across the court, showcasing his agility and basketball IQ. A potential scoring opportunity arose as Frye took the ball with only Lowry to beat. An offensive foul was called as an aggressive move by Frye led to a collision with Lowry, who strategically positioned himself to draw the charge, much to the commentators' acclaim for his defensive intelligence.
The game continued with intense back-and-forth action. Lowry's consecutive stands on defense momentarily disrupted the Suns' rhythm, but the Suns were relentless. Carlos, seizing a rebound, accelerated the pace for a counterattack. Curry, on the left arc, made a quick feint suggesting a three-pointer—his threat from beyond the arc was real, considering his performance in the previous game. But instead of shooting, Curry smartly passed the ball to Carlos.
Carlos, receiving the ball at the right high post, charged towards the basket at full speed. Lowry, once again, positioned himself in the painted area, aiming to draw another offensive foul from Carlos.
The Suns' coach, Alvin Gentry, and his assistant George saw what was unfolding and yelled a caution to Carlos. But Carlos, aware of Lowry's intentions, didn't slow down. With an impressive display of athleticism, he leapt into the air, clearing over Lowry, who could only watch in astonishment as Carlos flew overhead.
Carlos avoided the charge and completed the play with a thunderous dunk, leaving the crowd in awe and sending a clear message: he was not going to be stopped easily. This moment of sheer physical prowess and basketball acumen only solidified his status and the Suns' determination to extend their winning streak.
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