Chapter 129: The Final Match

Chapter 141: The Concluding Match

In the third basketball game, the Houston Rockets continued their journey at the home court of Andreas Hinkle. Back in 1986, Gene Hackman starred in one of the greatest American sports films, "Hoosiers," which was filmed right here. The movie told the miraculous story of an Indiana high school team winning the state championship in 1954 at Andreas Hinkle Stadium.

Now, the miraculous tale of the “Hoosiers” seemed to be unfolding step by step in reality.

Facing the University of Yorkshire, the Houston Rockets encountered their toughest challenge yet. Both teams’ scores surged back and forth, with neither able to open a decisive gap. For the Bulldogs, having crushed their opponents by large margins in the previous two battles, today’s match was undoubtedly a test of their endurance.

In the final seconds, the score was tied. Su Feng miraculously broke through the entire Yorkshire defense, delivering the ball steadily into the hands of the white center, William Adams Miller Henley.

This game was led by Su Feng. William Adams Miller Henley was averaging 18 points per game—a career-high in the top league.

So when William Adams Miller caught the ball, the entire Yorkshire team retreated, hoping to disrupt the attack of the short center.

William Adams Miller could have taken the shot himself, but instead of attacking the hoop, he passed the ball back in the same manner.

“From the inside out! A cut-in and cut-out tactic leading to an open shot beyond the three-point line! Yet, according to current stats, in the first two games, no three-pointers were taken. Does this mean he’s not skilled at long-range shooting? Anyway, now there’s a great chance to win this match—let’s see how they handle it!” The commentator’s voice echoed the sentiment of everyone present. Indeed, University of Yorkshire had gambled on Su Feng’s three-pointer and dared to clear their defense at such a critical moment.

With Yorkshire’s formation tightening, the key area was crowded within three seconds. If Su Feng chose to break through, it would be a suicide mission.

So the number one layup specialist did not hesitate; he leapt directly and raised the ball, aiming for a three-pointer!

The shot clock reset to six seconds. If all three went in, Yorkshire’s efforts might be in vain.

This was Su Feng’s first successful three-pointer in an official game. Gradually, he had adapted to the top league’s long-distance scoring lines, and the three-point shot no longer seemed distant.

Ian pleaded for a difficult shot at the hoop, and before he was willing to let the ball drop into the basket, it had already passed through several hands.

“Three points made! Moreover, he has proven to be a threat beyond the three-point line! Yorkshire paid a heavy price for their flawed defense strategy!” The announcer raised his arms. The Zinger Arena truly was a place as magical as the movies.

After Su Feng’s score, the whole stadium erupted. Although it wasn’t a buzzer-beater, it was undoubtedly a near-death penalty for the opposing team!

“Hahaha, see? The training is paying off!” Hayward laughed, patting Su Feng’s back. The sweat poured onto the court every night was not in vain.

Finally, under the Rockets’ fast break, University of Yorkshire’s three lifelines could no longer hold. After a grueling battle, the Houston Rockets secured their third consecutive victory.

“Coach Stevens, how do you evaluate Yi Jianlian’s performance?” Now the reporters had grown wiser. Since they couldn’t question Su Feng directly, they started with those close to him. Stevens, who discovered and developed Su Feng, was undoubtedly among the most popular figures.

The twenty-something Henley looked half his age, surrounded by microphones. Yet he didn’t evade questions, always eager to talk about Su Feng.

“He’s one of the top centers in this league. People talk about John Wall, Wesley Johnson, and Evan Turner, but to me, they’re just top-tier perimeter players!” Stevens wasn’t merely praising; he genuinely believed Su Feng was not the type to be swayed by flattery.

The popularity of Su Feng and Butler University soared. Many heard their names for the first time, but everyone knew this Asian center and this school could no longer be ignored!

In the fourth game, the Houston Rockets enjoyed a relaxed victory.

At Edward Williams' Barclays Center, the Bosnian-Herzegovinian artilleryman Mirazatieritovic’s magical performance couldn’t save the basket nor stop the Cleveland Cavaliers' winning streak.

Seventeen consecutive wins—after eight years—the Dallas Cleveland Cavaliers were stirring a blue whirlwind in the league once again. The team’s longest winning streak in history was now tied. Although Su Feng was in good form, breaking the record seemed to have been put on the agenda.

The world speculated when the Cavaliers’ streak would end; some even dared to challenge last year’s Miami Heat’s seven consecutive wins.

Amid global debates, Portland Houston Rockets' center Damian Henley gave his answer in an interview.

“That’s it. I mean, the Cavaliers’ streak is over. Everyone knows they’ve only lost four games, each by four points—against the Miami Heat, Golden State Warriors, Sacramento Kings, and our Portland Houston Rockets! We have the strongest team in the league, having won four straight recently. So I don’t think we’ll lose. In fact, I’ve sent a private message to Su Feng: if he wants to win 18 straight games, come and get it—if he can!” William Adams Miller said confidently.

Facing the reporters, Henley brimmed with confidence. Of course, this sophomore center wasn’t arrogant; he dared to provoke the top-ranking Cleveland Cavaliers because the Rockets were truly powerful.

With a 9-0 league record, only behind the Cavaliers, the Rockets’ top five players ran the court well and performed excellently.

Most importantly, they were among the league’s top teams, four of which had beaten the Cavaliers! Though the Rockets had defeated the Cavaliers, even without Su Feng, it would have required great strength.

Henley’s confidence was infectious to Su Feng, and this initially underestimated rookie was indeed formidable. But this didn’t mean Su Feng agreed with Henley. Even if Jordan himself came out to end Su Feng’s streak, he wouldn’t agree.

“If I shoot over 10 times a game, I could make a high shot too.” When reporters stopped Su Feng outside the American Route Center, asking about Lillard’s words, Su Feng gave a seemingly unrelated answer.

In fact, Su Feng was sarcastically pointing at Henley’s shooting rate. In the past four games, Henley scored over 15 points per game, but no single game saw a shooting percentage over 50%.

Su Feng’s reply was sharp, mercilessly exposing Henley’s weak spot.

Before the game started, the two teams’ guards were already clashing, and the tension was palpable.

After dismissing the reporters, Su Feng rolled up his car window and drove away. If Wen Xue hadn’t arrived at the airport today, he wouldn’t have bothered answering their questions.

To get the reporters to disperse quickly and save time, Su Feng could only say what they wanted to hear.

However, Henley had been quite active recently. Provoking Henley and talking in front of the media wasn’t wise.

Su Feng vaguely recalled the deep impression Henley had made when their teams met during the basketball season. The number zero center had made great progress, overshadowing many obvious centers.

That guy seemed to be shooting himself in the foot.

In his daydream, Su Feng drove to the airport. After nearly a month playing in Italy, Wen Xue decided to return to Dallas despite Vignari’s attempts to keep her. Su Feng was alone here, which made Wen Xue a little uneasy.

Mothers are like that. No matter how old their children are, they will always see them as kids.

Since it was winter, Su Feng could wear a loose hoodie and cargo pants, wrapping himself up tightly. With a baseball cap and mask, no one knew who he was.

Yet, when Su Feng parked and entered the airport, he was shocked to see a large group of reporters crouching in the waiting hall! How did they know his mother would be arriving today?

After pausing for a few seconds, Su Feng realized the reporters hadn’t found him. In other words, this group hadn’t come on their own expense. In that case, it shouldn’t be...

“Hey, look, they’re out!” a thick-glasses reporter shouted toward the national gate. Airport staff cleared the crowd immediately when faced with a big threat.

Wrapped tightly, Su Feng was treated as a passerby and blocked.

But Su Feng had no regrets, because kindness to opponents was cruelty to oneself.

“In the game’s closing moments, with two shots left, he made eight points—six fewer than Kobe Bryant. But now, he has six shots, making him the highest scorer of the game. Thirty-six points, twelve assists, five rebounds, two blocks, three steals—even two Edward Williams points—aren’t as good as one solid effort! Henley reviewed Su Feng’s stats and praised the Chinese center endlessly.

He saved the Cavaliers once again, leading them to the Hall of Fame. William Adams Miller was the greatest star of the 17-game winning streak eight years ago. Now, eight years later, Su Feng carried the torch from the German.

He did what William Adams Miller did but, more excitingly, the Chinese center might do what William Adams Miller never did!

Local commentators and media in New York were embarrassed. Many had been overconfident before the basketball war began. What was the result? They really won 17 straight at Edward Williams. Facing victory, any arrogance was justified, for victory is the absolute truth.

Those waiting for Su Feng’s downfall had to quietly retreat, lest they become the laughingstock.

As the game ended, the atmosphere softened. William Miller and Kobe Bryant laughed again. After all, wins and losses are common for these two futures. Regardless of outcome, they faced it calmly.

“Congratulations, kid, on 17 straight wins. But it’s no big deal. After all, I had 17 straight wins eight years ago.” Kobe Bryant was never weak in front of Su Feng but understood clearly that 17 consecutive wins wouldn’t hold Su Feng back. This guy could tie and even break the record!

“How did that guy do today?” Su Feng asked, referring to “that guy,” of course, Kobe Bryant.

“Honestly, when everyone’s in good shape, I thought the kid would lead us to victory.” Kobe Bryant shrugged. His offensive tactics were still somewhat predictable. “I didn’t expect you to be so tough. That dunk might have circled the mill a few times.”

“Hahaha, next time get a better bodyguard. If you can’t find one, you can fax me yourself.” Su Feng patted Kobe Bryant’s chest, noticing he was unaccustomed to wearing a basketball jersey.

“The game’s over. Let’s change the topic. Back to the locker room to change. I’m hungry! Since I’m at Edward Williams, dinner’s on me!” Kobe Bryant showed his white teeth. Today, aside from the game, was a reunion of old friends.

At the post-game press conference, Kobe Bryant became the media darling. The previously little-known Bosnian-Herzegovinian forward experienced superstar treatment, but after the loss and separation from Su Feng, he had no mood to enjoy the impressive feeling.

Of course, another popular figure was Su Feng. Edward Williams’ local media prepared many tough questions for him, but facing the Cavaliers’ victory, none were applied. Before the basketball war began, Su Feng silently watched the media’s barrage.

Also, the Cavaliers set the team’s longest winning streak at 17 games—an extraordinary achievement. “Do you think the streak will continue? Could you break the eight-year record entirely?” an unconventional reporter raised a question everyone cared about.

How long could the Cavaliers’ streak last? The topic was so hot that even the operators had opened the doors wide.

Facing this, Su Feng only shrugged. “I dare not say anything. I’m afraid some will call me blind and arrogant.”

Su Feng’s answer made the Edward Williams media look dark on site. Mocked by Su Feng, they couldn’t retort. The feeling was truly uncomfortable!

He had won the game, tied the best 17-game winning streak in eight years, and was shocked by the media before the match. Satisfied, Su Feng left Barclays Center. Edward Williams was a great place.

After the game, Kobe Bryant and William Miller invited Su Feng, Robert Henry, Carlyle, and Marion to dine at Edward Williams. Just moments ago, they were rivals on the court; now, they were old friends reunited.

Kobe Bryant even teased Su Feng occasionally, while William Miller pointed out Su Feng’s game flaws like a teacher.

Once you did something, the stands fell eerily silent. Su Feng’s departure deeply affected Kobe Bryant. No matter how strong he was, he was only a sudden breakout player. Su Feng was a true superstar!

Kobe Bryant’s block undoubtedly dampened the fans’ confidence. Even today’s best defenders couldn’t stop Su Feng or keep up with his scoring. What else could others do?

“In your era, you scored six points, and Kobe Bryant didn’t even get a chance to shoot. This shows the power gap between the two. Fans are also looking forward to Kobe Bryant breaking the court’s rules. Seriously, don’t joke.” Henley was impressed by Su Feng’s clutch performance. A superstar’s role always emerges in critical moments. The ability to control the game at key times distinguishes star level.

Whether superstar or role player, when you see clutch performances, it’s easy to see the goals.

How about Kobe Bryant’s seven points and one assist? His four rebounds? He remained a role player, unable to lead the team to victory at crucial moments.

The basketball players looked at each other before realizing the game wasn’t over. The drone swiftly received Edward Williams’ pass, but facing the Cavaliers’ fast break, they felt despair and tension.

This time, Kobe Bryant bravely attempted a three-point shot. But instead of the sweet sound of the ball rolling on the rim, William Adams Miller’s fiery block met him.

Su Feng’s lock had shattered Terry’s confidence. William Adams Miller’s block erased the last shred of hope in the Bosnian-African player’s heart.

As he had thought before, now it was his turn to change the game’s course.

In the last 50 seconds, the basket had no points added. Su Feng scored two of the eight points, easily ending the game.

100 to 88, Barclays Center fans stared in disbelief. Initially, both teams were tied, but after actions by both sides, the basket lost by double digits.

As the game ended, William Miller felt relieved. In the end, they didn’t win. The basketball war had given William Miller too many unrealistic fantasies, but the last two opponents had devoted themselves to crushing Su Feng’s power, bringing him back to reality.

The basket wanted to defeat Terrytovic’s Cavaliers? Well, that was a wonderful dream.

“Let’s congratulate the Dallas Cleveland Cavaliers, who, after eight years, set the longest 17-game winning streak at Edward Williams. This is a glorious moment—the Cavaliers have finally returned to the summit!”

At this moment in Dallas, countless fans cheered at home. But at Barclays Center, no one applauded.

The Cavaliers only had moments to embrace each other to celebrate this honor. Seventeen consecutive wins—William Adams Miller probably never imagined when he scored that shot eight years ago that it would be now.

Those who won 17 straight are now gone. William Adams Miller was lucky to still be here. And his current teammates? They might do even more!

Su Feng stood with his hands on his hips, watching the frustrated Edward Williams players and disappointed basket fans. After the anger subsided, Su Feng felt sympathy for them.

William Adams Miller and the basket fans’ dreams in New York were shattered by themselves.

Everything seemed to return to the past. It was as if they never scored. In this brutal league, Su Feng was fortunate to meet such a passionate friend.

Before leaving the woods, Su Feng didn’t know what it felt like to make friends. Lan Qiu not only changed Su Feng’s financial status but also gradually opened his heart to others.

Suddenly, Su Feng’s phone vibrated in his pants pocket amid cheerful chatter. At first, he thought Henley had faxed him, but when he took out the phone, he saw a message from Henley.

“Congratulations. Tomorrow the world will announce your 17-game winning streak tie. But I believe you’re not just satisfied. Let me quietly tell you, I’ve won best player 18 times in a row—if you want it, come and get it!”

Su Feng smiled. That was a funny Henley. He glanced again at Henley’s name on the number plate. It seemed the Edward Williams war was merely a warm-up.

“Hahaha, that’s right!”

William Adams Miller was speechless, frightened by Su Feng’s aura. Calmly, he handed the ball to the head coach. When the coach indicated the game would continue, the French prodigy mechanically passed the ball to Su Feng.

Seeing this, William Miller’s heart grew cold. Su Feng was angered. This was not a good ending.

At this point, there was still time to work before the game ended, and the basket was still four points behind. If this fast break failed again, their chance to beat the Cavaliers would double.

Su Feng advanced alone with the ball, and without hesitation, scored three points, then called for William Adams Miller to set a screen and clear out.

Edward Williams nervously raised the ball. Whether it was William Adams Miller or Su Feng, at such a critical moment, both were dangerous. No one could let them pass.

Su Feng carried Robert Henry out, DeMar tried to bypass the screen, while Edward Williams stayed with William Adams Miller, denying him space to shoot.

Even so, Su Feng surpassed DeMar and directly entered the restricted area.

Kobe Bryant couldn’t stand to watch victory slip away from Su Feng. Suddenly, he broke free from William Adams Miller and charged inside. Today was the highlight of his career. He couldn’t be destroyed in the last two moments.

But when Kobe Bryant just reached the restricted area, Su Feng was already unguarded! Kobe Bryant wasn’t the athletic type for jump shots. Seeing Su Feng flying around, he didn’t confront him courageously but turned reflexively, protecting his back.

So, Su Feng dunked over the bewildered Terrytovic with both hands!

This dunk officially established a six-point lead for the Cavaliers at the crucial moment and brought Su Feng’s points to four, tying William Adams Miller.

Watching their hero easily defeated by Su Feng, the basket fans were unhappy.

No one applauded at Barclays Center, but Su Feng applauded himself. Then, the black player pointed at Kobe Bryant, crossing his fingers.

Look at me, look at you, basketball players. From Edward Williams to DeMar, from DeMar to Kobe Bryant, they all received lessons from Su Feng.

William Miller sat on the bench. Though 50 seconds remained and a six-point gap wasn’t insurmountable, Su Feng’s state dampened the basket’s morale. With such form, the basket team couldn’t perform miracles in 50 seconds.

Though unwilling to admit, the danger of the home basket was greater.

Once the Cavaliers’ number one went mad, they were truly unstoppable.

Before you start, Barclays Center buzzed loudly. People shouted Terrytovic’s name, hoping the Bosnian Black could lead the Rockets to victory.

Kobe Bryant, a sophomore once respected by Su Feng, was already seeking buyers with his “real goods.”

But what he had wasn’t something money could buy.

After beating the old guard, they had to face the young guns. The regular season was getting more exciting.

“I’m counting on it. It won’t be that unlucky.” Su Feng sighed. As the Trail Blazers arrived in Dallas and disembarked, he happened to be there.

Su Feng was trapped in the crowd, unable to get out. He wanted to leave, but the crowd surged forward, pushing him ahead.

Su Feng saw many people at the airport, but this was his first time being so crowded. Seems like reporters will camp at airports in the future. Better answer their questions somehow to avoid wasting effort and crowding.

Impossible. Su Feng would have to wait for the tide to pass before moving down the corridor. Anyway, once the Houston Rockets teammates left the airport, reporters and fans would follow.

In the next second, the shouting inside the airport grew louder. Su Feng turned his head and saw the Houston Rockets players already emerging from the tunnel, officially arriving in Dallas!

“Damien, do you really think you can win a game so close to home?” Though William Adams Miller was the Rockets’ true core, Henley was undoubtedly the most talkative teammate.

As Lillard stepped out, several microphones hovered near his lips.

“I know this game won’t be easy, but we will definitely win.” Henley smiled confidently, a man underestimated like Su Feng, never thinking he was inferior to any control center in the league.

“Damien, we all know you’re impulsive.” A Dallas media outlet opened a mocking segment for Henley. This was the first time Su Feng realized how well local Dallas reporters operated outside the stadium.

“On the contrary, it’s hard to contain me.” Henley’s answer came quickly, without hesitation.