Why must domestic media insist on branding the Rockets as 'championship contenders'?
Why, even after the Rockets dismantled all their quality players, do they still try to concoct a 'new version of the OK combination' out of thin air?
Because most people admire strength; previously, they might not have even touched a basketball but followed the NBA purely because of Yao Ming.
The title 'champion' holds a esteemed place in the hearts of the people with the mindset of 'friendship first, competition second, fight me for the championship, and I'll beat you to death'; anyone who starts following the NBA would know about the OK combination that dominated the league years before.
Superstar Yao Ming, the slogan of ultimate champion, rubbing shoulders with the OK dynasty—all these factors combined generate maximum attention.