On June 5, 1998, after winning G2, the Knicks successfully protected two home courts, and then flew to Salt Lake City without stopping.
After staying in the hotel for one night, the Knicks could already feel the hostility of local fans towards them.
Karl Malone and Stockton have been with Jazz fans for too long.
Although they always fell in the first round before and lost inexplicably, after defeating the stars of the same class, Jazz fans hope that the two will have a happy ending at the end of their careers.
Facts have proved that the body is the capital of revolution, and being able to endure working years is also an amazing talent!
The G3 game is about to officially begin in the evening. During the video class in the morning, Jeff Van Gundy, who was in a good mood, was still making chicken soup for the Knicks:
"As long as we win another away game, we can get the match point and end the series!"
"Think about it, Karl Malone is 35 years old and Stockton is 36 years old. After two consecutive games, their physical condition will not be very good!"
"This is our opportunity. As long as we play an away game, the championship will be ours."
Ewing and Oakley both glared at Jeff Van Gundy:
"If you can't speak, just speak less!"
Noticing that the two veterans were looking directly at him, Jeff Van Gundy realized that there was too much salt in the chicken soup, and he had caught up with the old guy.
In terms of schedule, as long as the Jazz can survive G3, they will be able to get two days of rest time. Coupled with the next two home games, the possibility of a comeback in one go does exist.
The most important thing is that in the two lost games, both sides clocked out three quarters, and Jerry Sloan had no clue and insisted on consuming the physical energy of the main lineup.
The old guys in the team are getting older, so they naturally have to use them sparingly.
Not every player is as stubborn as Michael Jordan. Sometimes, giving up is indeed a more reasonable choice.
In short, the iron-blooded coach seems to have made up his mind to give up the away game. The first two games may also be called "tests."
In the two games, the Jazz changed different inside combinations, and generally tried out which player is more suitable for this series.
Li You rubbed his chin. So far in the playoffs, everything was as he expected. He finished first in the regular season and had the easiest schedule.
In the playoffs, the opponents were swept cleanly without giving subsequent opponents too much information to refer to.
Except for the Bulls' three-pointer that almost changed the trend of the game, the entire playoffs were perfect.
However, most NBA head coaches have good stuff, just like the bald young coach who can't play offense, but is very good at building a defensive system.
Even without Ewing this season, the Knicks' defense still ranks second in the league, and Jeff Van Gundy naturally takes credit for that.
The guard leads the defense against the opponent, goes up to the line to flank the ball holder, rotates quickly inside, compresses the opponent's offensive space, and finally protects the backcourt rebounds.
This defensive system inherited from Pat Riley has been further optimized. Although the Knicks lack a long and highly mobile inside man, Oakley's fierce defense makes up for this.
Of course, any system and any player has weaknesses. After reaching the finals, Li You felt that it was time for someone to figure out the way.
Before the game started that night, most sports media believed that the Jazz could come back.
The biggest difference from playing away games is that when returning to the Delta Center Arena in Salt Lake City, the Jazz's defensive intensity will definitely pick up.
In the Western Conference Finals, the Lakers lost two games in a row, and the three-point shooting from outside was difficult. It was because the Jazz's defensive experience locked up the flashy Van Exel, and also made Eddie Jones and Fisher misfire.
Two old white men, their individual defense status is average, but due to the bonus of the system and their own "tough" defensive actions, ordinary players really can't stand it.
That night, at the Delta Center Arena, before the game started, the abuse became louder and louder.
Spike Lee was sitting in the front row again, and he was still provoking fans, but all he got was scolding.
Before the game, in addition to interviewing the core of the home team, NBC's famous reporter Jim Gray also did not forget about Li You. However, as soon as the two of them stood on the sidelines, boos broke out in the audience.
"Oh! It can be seen that the Jazz fans really don't welcome you!"
"It's your first time playing away from home in the finals. Li, tell me how you feel?"
The booing was so loud that Jim Gray subconsciously raised his voice, but Li You didn't care and said with a relaxed expression:
"It doesn't seem to be any different from the regular season. I like playing with boos and it gives me extra motivation."
"Three consecutive away games, we are confident of getting a victory!"
The yelling and cursing became louder and louder. Jim Gray patted Li You and sent his blessing loudly:
"Wish you good luck, Lee!"
"."
The Jazz, who never double-teamed the ball holder throughout the season, also completely changed their game strategy and double-teamed Li You early at the beginning of the game.
The 35-year-old Jeff Hornacek has difficulty defending Alan Houston alone, but he is experienced in double-teaming and assisting defense.
"Defense! Defense! Defense!"
The Jazz fans at the scene began to shout loudly for the home team's defense. In the first offensive round, Stockton immediately defended closely when Li You came to the right wing.
While guarding his right hand, Hornacek at the top of the arc also rushed towards this side. Li You, who switched to his left hand, quickly noticed the opponent's defensive rotation.
Before the double-team was completely formed, the ball was quickly given to Alan Houston at the top of the arc to connect. The Jazz defense rotated again, and Brian Russell immediately moved to defend.
Alan Houston did not force the offense, but quickly transferred the ball to Larry Johnson near the left corner.
The "aunt" who was left short hesitated for a moment, and finally hit the open jumper.
"oh!!"
Amidst the cheers, Foster and Ewing, who were starting tonight, struggled hard under the basket. Karl Malone successfully got stuck and grabbed the rebound.
In the first round, Li You realized that something was wrong. The Jazz completely abandoned their previous defensive strategy and began to boldly double-team and let Larry Johnson go.
Fortunately, the Knicks' defense was also on the line, and Hornacek slipped from the baseline and bounced out to the mid-range on the right side of the block.
Back at home, Karl Malone was even more aggressive, hanging on Oakley and almost grabbing an offensive rebound.
After a stir, when Ewing collected the rebound, the Knicks' transition attack was gone.
Although Jeff Van Gundy was prepared to face difficulties before the game.
But as the game progressed, Malone stopped shooting jump shots and frequently attacked the inside. Oakley couldn't withstand it.
With 3 minutes and 21 seconds left in the first quarter, Oakley received his second foul, and veteran Buck Williams had to come on early.
The chain reaction was that the Jazz double-teamed Li You more fiercely, and the Knicks' offensive space was further compressed.
Each attack lasted close to 24 seconds. Li You was forced to strengthen his movements without the ball, and Jerry Sloan on the sidelines also smiled.
The Jazz, who had no power to fight back in the two away games, changed drastically after returning to the home court. The offensive end was still stretched, but with strong defense, they just dragged the game back to their favorite rhythm.
At the end of the first quarter, the score between the two sides was fixed at 17:17, and the noise in the Delta Center Arena became louder and louder.
Jeff Van Gundy is also aware of the problem. Many rounds have too obvious passing intentions, and the Jazz can easily predict them.
The plan made before the game was not successful, at least the performance of Larry Johnson, who was let go, did not meet expectations.
The bald young coach performed the rotation step by step, and the game completely returned to the rhythm that the Jazz liked.
Malone only scored 6 points after going 2 for 6 in the first quarter. In the rotation stage, the tough screen came back, and Stockton was finally able to get rid of the pursuit and hit a mid-range jumper.
In the NBC commentary box, Isiah Thomas looked at the Jazz's defense with a smile:
"This is the Jazz we are familiar with. They can always find a solution. Like I said, basketball is not just about offense!"
After regaining the rhythm of the game, the Jazz were still unable to take the lead. The old guys were already working hard at this time, and Jerry Sloan kept shouting on the sidelines.
Oakley, who received three fouls in the first half, finally left the game with 4 minutes and 02 seconds left in the fourth quarter.
Ewing, who had committed 5 fouls, also became timid. Relying on Karl Malone's performance of 4 of 10 and 4 of 5 free throws in the last quarter, the Jazz struggled to regain the victory.
At 82:87, when the game ended, the Jazz fans cheered loudly.
Larry Johnson looked ugly, cursed secretly, turned around and walked towards the tunnel.
In the NBC commentary box, Bob Costas watched the excitement and did not take it too seriously. At this time, he concluded in a brisk tone:
"Back at home, Karl Malone and Stockton both performed well. The two scored 49 points together. I think this is the game everyone is looking forward to seeing!"
With the support of tough screens, Stockton made 9 of 12 free throws and 6 of 7 free throws. He scored 24 points, 2 rebounds, 8 assists, 1 steal and 3 turnovers;
Karl Malone made 9 of 24 shots, 7 of 9 free throws, scored 25 points, 14 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, 1 block and 2 turnovers.
Facts have proved that as long as the cover is in place, the elderly Stockton can still play an efficient game.
Doug Collins did not pay attention to technical statistics, but praised the Jazz's adjustments:
"Throughout the regular season, the Jazz never flanked the ball carrier. They relied more on zone defense-like positions and tacit cooperation to defend."
"Brian Russell played a key role. Compared with several other veterans, Russell is more energetic and takes on more defensive responsibilities."
Isiah Thomas seemed quite proud of his prediction:
"For three consecutive home games, the Jazz have a chance to get the match point!"
"Of course, for veterans, physical fitness is also a test. Fortunately, they have two more days to rest."
"."
After Jeff Van Gundy returned to the locker room, he felt a sense of crisis in his heart. If the Jazz were to lose three games in a row, even if he was the best coach in the league, he would most likely be fired during the offseason!
New York fans can't accept the result of reaching the finals and losing again, and the same goes for the management. Salary represents strength. If you can't change the players, then change the coach.
Thinking again that Phil Jackson would most likely not coach the Bulls, the bald young coach's heart tightened and he repeatedly sent out chicken soup:
"Two days of rest, take a good rest, and remember, we only need to win one away game to get the match point!"
"Our opponents will also get tired and make mistakes. As long as we seize the opportunity, we can completely end the series."
The mental victory method is particularly useful at this moment. Larry Johnson, who scored 10 points on 4-of-12 shots in this game, was the first to chime in:
"We will get the match point and finish them off in the next game!"
Alan Houston didn't say a word, but just bumped fists with "Auntie" to express his agreement.
Ewing performed well tonight, shooting 7 of 16 and scoring a double-double of 18 points and 10 rebounds. However, he missed two free throws at the last moment, which made the Gorilla depressed.
Oakley was still yelling at the referee. The old guy thought that the Jazz's home whistle was a bit too much, and the screen could be called a foul.
Jeff Van Gundy was nagging and still giving chicken soup for the soul, but Li You was rubbing his chin, thinking about how to deal with double teams.
Played 40 minutes, 8 of 19, 3 of 8 from beyond the arc, 4 of 5 free throws, 23 points, 3 rebounds, 8 assists, 1 steal and 3 turnovers. On the road, his efficiency began to decline again.
Starks was silent at this time. He was not good at playing against the wind and away from home.
After two days of rest, G4 will officially start the war on the evening of June 8th.
Winning a home game gave the Jazz a good start, which also made many losers change their tune.
The popularity of the finals has also begun to pick up, and no one likes to watch a one-sided game.
The Knicks didn't go anywhere. After training, they went back to the hotel to watch the video. Jeff Van Gundy may not have slept well, and the dark circles under his eyes became more and more obvious.
"It's unbelievable that Karl Malone, who is about to turn 35, has still not declined."
After watching the video, Thibodeau lamented again that this state is not much different from last season.
Oakley and Starks have shown signs of decline this season. After Ewing was injured, he has not found his previous offensive state until now.
Jeff Van Gundy also felt that this was outrageous. Oakley's defensive role was limited. Without the home whistle, some actions were not allowed.
"It is also a good choice to wait for the opponent to make mistakes. At least Li did not make a lot of mistakes when facing double teams."
"Our starting lineup is still very stable in scoring. Maybe John and Chris can find their shooting touch in the next game."
Assistant coach Qian Downey is still relatively optimistic. As long as someone from Starks on the bench breaks out, the Knicks can score around 90 points.
Even if the Jazz slows down the pace of the game, such a score is enough to win a game.
At this point in the series, there is not much room for adjustment. Jeff Van Gundy prayed secretly in his heart and said with confidence on the surface:
"We will win an away game. Compared to the Jazz, we are younger and more talented!"
Several assistant coaches and team staff were flattering each other for a while, and the bald young coach was in a state of rapture.
On the night of June 8, at the end of halftime at the Delta Center Arena, Jazz fans were cheering loudly.
At 40:46, the Jazz entered the second half with a 6-point lead.
In the NBC commentary box, Bob Costas looked at the technical statistics of Starks' 1-for-8, 2 points, 2 rebounds and 3 turnovers, and sighed helplessly:
"Alan Houston left the game with a sprained ankle after the opening game, which had a huge impact on the Knicks."
"Coach Van Gundy may have made the wrong substitution choice. Obviously, Starks was completely out of shape tonight."
Seemingly recalling the finals that year, Doug Collins added with a smile:
"The Knicks must make timely adjustments. If the Jazz win another game, the series score will become 2:2, and the battle at Tianwang Mountain will still be held in Salt Lake City."
Isiah Thomas didn't expect Starks to be in such a bad state, and he laughed and said something sarcastic:
"Not every player is suitable for a stage like the Finals. I hope Alan Houston's injury is not serious and he can return in the second half of the game."
In the Knicks locker room, Starks' eyes widened, and Jeff Van Gundy also frowned, dreaming back to that year's Finals.
Every time it comes to a critical game, something will always happen to the Knicks.
Big Brother is fighting, and everyone can't say much. They just think of losing again, G5 is still in Salt Lake City, and Ewing and Oakley are not swollen.
Alan Houston broke through to the basket in the opening game and sprained his foot when he landed, twisting his foot badly. At this time, he grinned and said:
"I can continue to fight, it's not a big problem!"
Jeff Van Gundy shook his head and pondered for a while before speaking:
"Chris, Charlie, you guys, get ready. John will take a rest in the second half. Lee, you will play the No. 2 position."
Li You nodded. The bald marshal made the right choice by continuing to let Starks appear on the stage.
Everyone was in a low mood. The Jazz blossomed more tonight, and Russell and Hornacek also found their shooting touch.
The embarrassment is that the Knicks rarely make comebacks this season, and the coaching staff is also aware of this situation.
After the second half of the game started, the Jazz fans at the scene immediately cheered for the home team and shouted:
"Let's go Jazz! Let's go Jazz! Let's go Jazz!"
The Jazz took the lead in attacking. Stockton noticed that his opponent was Chris Childs. Li You defended himself in front of Hornacek and immediately made tactical gestures.
Hornacek quickly slipped across the baseline from right to left, and with the help of Karl Malone's cover near the baseline on the left, he quickly bounced out to the left block.
Li You's pursuit was a step slower, but he did not block the shot. Instead, he slowed down and raised his left hand high to simply interfere.
Hornacek saw Li You sliding, feinted and then quickly released the ball, holding the ball in his right hand to accelerate the breakthrough. He soon discovered that this was the wrong choice. Li You was unable to pick up speed due to the hidden pull.
He broke through into the paint in three big steps. Under Li You's interference, he cut in and picked up the basket.
The basketball just hit the frame, and several people under the basket jumped up to grab the rebound. Li You also jumped around at this time, and finally it was Ewing who grabbed the rebound above everyone.
The fans at the scene sighed with regret. With two more points, the point difference would be close to double digits!
"Defense! Defense! Defense!"
The defensive cheers echoed throughout the arena again, the home team took the lead, and the Jazz fans at the scene were in high spirits.
Chris Childs dribbled across half court with 8 seconds left. At this time, Li You was standing in the right corner. Hornacek simply turned his back to the basket and defended one-on-one.
The two were fighting in the bottom corner. Li You first pretended to catch the ball on the right wing, moved up and then suddenly ran back. Hornacek lost his defensive position without paying attention, and then immediately chased behind him.
Near the baseline on the left, Ewing's off-ball screen delayed Hornacek again. When Li You bounced to the left wing beyond the three-point line, Chris Childs immediately sent a cross pass.
Turning around to catch the ball, Li You didn't make any adjustments and just threw the ball away from the three-point line!
Hornacek had just arrived in front of him and subconsciously blocked the shot. After landing, he heard boos from the fans at the scene.
"Whoa!" The three-pointer hit the net.
At 43:46, the Knicks quickly narrowed the point difference after the start of the second half.
"Shh!"
With the audience booing, Jeff Van Gundy stood on the sidelines and kept clapping.
The Knicks retreated quickly, and Chris Childs immediately led the defense against Stockton.
Compared with Li You's defense, Chris Childs is more aggressive, fighting with physical strength and constantly interfering.
Coming to the left wing, Karl Malone began to block in the low post again, and Oakley knew that the opponent was definitely going to pass the ball.
The two competed in the low post again. Soon, Malone received the pass, turned around, feinted, then released the ball with his left hand, arched it along the baseline to the basket, pushed away the defense, and forced a shot with Oakley hanging on.
The basket missed, Foster and Ewing huddled together, and Oakley also took off.
The four people under the basket continued to grab points, and finally Oakley collected the rebound.
Ewing complained to the referee that the opponent's elbow was blocked, but received no feedback. Instead, Jazz fans booed wildly again.
It was still a positional battle attack. This time Li You had no chance to counterattack, and the right flank made tactical gestures.
The Knicks soon followed their old routine. After Ewing caught the ball in the low post on the left, he broke through the upper limit and made a throw right in front of the basket.
As soon as the basketball came out of the frame, Ewing rushed to the basket, and Oakley and Malone huddled together again.
The gorilla got the rebound, and Larry Johnson, who was rushing inside, got the right opportunity and grabbed the rebound.
Amid the boos of Jazz fans, "Big Mom" once again threw the ball to Chris Childs on the outside, and the Knicks gained another 24 seconds of attack time.
Coach Sloan next to him was very dissatisfied with this round and kept reminding Russell loudly:
"Concentrate! Get your seat in advance!"
At this time, Li You quickly slipped across the baseline from right to left and came to the left blocking area. Realizing that he could not get rid of the defense, he suddenly shot diagonally outward.
Oakley, who had just arrived at the right elbow of the free throw line, made an off-ball screen. Li You briefly got rid of Hornacek's pursuit and quickly bounced to the right wing.
Under the interference of Stockton, Chris Childs' cross pass was delayed by half a beat. When Li You received the ball, Hornacek successfully pursued the ball in front of him.
After catching the ball, he feinted and noticed that Hornacek was not jumping out of position. Taking advantage of the opponent's slowdown, Li You quickly released the ball with his right hand, took a step sideways, drifted slightly to the right, and quickly shot a jump shot!
"Whoa!" Another three-pointer!
"Shhh!!"
At 46:46, coach Sloan immediately requested a timeout. The tough coach looked ugly. Before 2 minutes were up, the Knicks equalized the score.
The atmosphere team didn't care about the boos at the scene, jumping up and down and high-fiving Li You when he came off the stage.
Oakley and Ewing also bumped fists to tie the score, and the confidence of the old guys returned.
Bob Costas didn't expect the Knicks to play two guards, and he sighed for a while:
"Hornacek's defense is in place, but Lee's shot is too fast!"
Doug Collins did not think this was a good shot, and said firmly:
"If Lee's shooting is poor, it is very likely that the Jazz will seize the opportunity and counterattack."
"Of course, if he can keep hitting such difficult three-pointers, then the Jazz can only pray."
After the timeout, the Jazz quickly stabilized their position. Stockton and Malone simply played a pick-and-roll at the right elbow of the free throw line.
Malone caught the ball at the free throw line, took a tentative step and made a pull-up jump shot!
Oakley was so angry that he smashed the basketball and shot backwards. How could he defend against this?
The Knicks used the same tactic again. After Li You ran back twice in a row, this time the shot from the left wing failed.
"Wow!"
The Jazz fans at the scene cheered loudly, and coach Jerry Sloan on the sidelines breathed a sigh of relief.
Stockton, who collected backcourt rebounds, also failed to seize the opportunity to switch offense and continued to fall into position.
Continuously pursuing defense, the Knicks also showed tenacious defense. At the last moment, there was another pick-and-roll with close to 24 seconds. Stockton made an emergency stop jumper from the right elbow area.
The basketball hit the edge of the basket. Chris Childs successfully collected the rebound and then immediately passed it to Li You who was accelerating in the middle.
There were boos at the scene, and everyone in the Jazz team quickly retreated. Li You received the ball in the middle. Li You, who was holding the ball in his left hand, continued to accelerate. Feeling the physical confrontation from Hornacek beside him, he quickly in and out close to the three-point line.
Swinging right and left, Li You held the ball with his left hand, shaking Hornacek to his side. Before he had time to react, Li You had already stopped at the three-point line, converted to a three-pointer and quickly shot a jumper!
"Whoa!" The three-pointer hit the net.
At 49:48, the Knicks completed another lead.
Even a blind chicken can be thrown in? Stockton and Russell, who had already retreated for half-time, had solemn expressions on their faces.
"Shh!"
Ewing was so excited at this time that he didn't care about the boos at the scene and began to loudly call on his teammates to defend.
The Jazz also started to score and play. Kama Long received the ball in the low post on the left side and Russell took the opportunity to quickly cut to the basket.
Although he successfully received the ball, it was not a good offensive choice. Larry Johnson's pursuit and defense were in place in time, and Ewing shrunk the basket. The moment Russell raised the ball, he was cut hard by "Auntie".
"squeak!"
The referee immediately blew the whistle and whistled for Larry Johnson's foul. Russell got two free throws.
Without complaining, Larry Johnson walked quickly to the paint area. Russell missed the second free throw. The fans at the scene screamed again. Ewing grabbed the rebound and Chris Childs immediately responded.
Li You had already rushed through half court at this time. The Jazz team, which had suffered a heavy loss, retreated desperately, and the Knicks were forced to follow and fall into position to attack.
It was still Li You who slipped to the bottom line, and Hornacek continued to pursue the defense with all his life.
Moving quickly from left to right, Li You suddenly turned around just after he reached the bottom of the basket. After an emergency stop, he accelerated and reversed, and quickly bounced to the left wing.
Coming outside the three-point line, Li You once again received a cross pass from Chris Childs, and then immediately raised the ball and feinted.
Hornacek pursued the defense in time, but this time he was tricked into jumping by Li You. He tried hard to dodge in the air, but was still hit for a free throw.
Li You ignored the opponent's defense and threw the ball into the sky, and then shouted:
"My bowl!"
The basketball hoop was not touched, but the referee still gave three free throws.
When Li You stood on the free throw line, the shouting and cursing at the scene became louder and louder. Obviously, this offensive attack completely angered the Jazz fans.
"Free throws are about giving away points. At such a critical moment, three free throws can also help the Knicks stabilize the situation. Lee is indeed very smart."
Bob Costas praised him out loud, but Isiah Thomas saw that Li You was almost out of tricks, and joked with a smile:
"I think Hornacek has adapted to Lee's offense at this time. If he wants to score easily, it will not be so easy."
At 52:49, Li You made all three free throws to help the Knicks take the lead again.
Stockton didn't show mercy at the critical moment. After passing the ball from outside several times, he succeeded in a jump shot after a pick-and-roll at the left elbow of the free throw line.
In the next few rounds, Ewing and Larry Johnson missed a strong attack at the basket. Malone and Russell seized the opportunity and made consecutive free throws to take the lead.
At 52:55, Jeff Van Gundy also immediately requested a timeout.
The Jazz fans at the scene cheered loudly, victory is in sight!
It pinched the Knicks' Achilles' heel and fell into a positional attack. Li You held the ball too much and was double-teamed. Ewing's low-post offensive efficiency was stretched, and it was difficult to score for a while.
Oakley was panting heavily and feeling depressed. Malone's big elbow was already effective at home. When stuck, waving the elbow is allowed here.
Li You didn't expect that the old guy opposite could run so well, and his physical fitness was better than he thought. Before Van Gundy could speak, he immediately made a suggestion:
"Pat, pay attention to my running position, with my back to the basket, catch the ball in the blocking area, and throw the ball to the baseline in time."
The low position didn't work. Ewing nodded immediately when he heard Li You's words.
The atmosphere team was silent at this time, and the away game was more difficult than they imagined.
The noisy scene made Jeff Van Gundy raise his voice and shout out chicken soup. If the offense fails, then we can only expect the defense to also make the opponent lose weight.
"Defense! Defense! Defense!"
The defensive cheers became louder and louder. After the timeout, the Knicks attacked. Using the same tactics, Li You quickly slipped to the baseline and then came to the right wing to catch the ball. Hornacek chased after him and then defended his right hand.
Putting the ball with his left hand, Li You made a cross-step breakthrough. Within two steps of entering the three-point line, Stockton blocked the breakthrough route.
Quickly returned the ball to the replacement Charlie Ward at the top of the arc.
The latter caught the ball without throwing it around. Taking advantage of Stockton's defensive return, he quickly moved to the left wing and then gave the ball to Ewing, who was in the blocking area and wanted the ball with his back.
After completing the pass, Li You made an arc. When he came to the left block, he pretended to cut into the baseline. Then he exerted force with his feet and quickly bounced out to the left corner after a few big steps.
Ewing immediately threw the ball, and Hornacek reacted quickly and jumped to defend!
The moment he caught the ball, Li You threw the ball out without making any adjustments. Then he was knocked down by Hornacek, and the two fell to the floor at the same time.
"Whoa!" The three-pointer hit the net!
At 55:55, the Delta Center Arena suddenly became quiet, and then there was another round of boos.
"Hey! That's a foul! Look at all my players getting knocked down!"
Seeing that the referee didn't say anything, Jeff Van Gundy was furious and wanted to chase him to argue. In the end, the coaching staff hurriedly pulled the bald young coach back.
After finally equalizing the score, if he was called for a technical foul, it would be a big loss.
There is no cylinder, no emphasis on falling space, and flexible penalty scales. These little routines will be completely ineffective as long as they are used a few times.
Li You didn't complain when he stood up, and followed the Knicks to retreat quickly.
Soon the two sides began to score points through free throws.
Ewing worked hard at this time and kept pushing towards the basket, and Larry Johnson also rushed towards the basket.
Karl Malone and Stockton can also get free throws.
61:61, with 4 minutes and 35 seconds left in the third quarter, the two sides were still tied.
As long as the free throws are scored, both sides will fall into positional offense. The Jazz learned the lessons of the Bulls and the game became more stable.
After struggling for most of the game, Hornacek began to breathe.
Li You will be running around every round, and the Knicks don't need to organize an offense at this time, relying entirely on Ewing and Larry Johnson to rush in.
This time the Knicks attacked, Li You once again crossed the line and came to the left wing from right to left. Hornacek once again pursued the defense in time.
Malone, who followed Oakley to the free throw line, was ready to double-team.
After receiving the ball, Li You maintained a triple threat posture. He noticed that Hornacek in front of him deliberately put his right hand and kept a distance. Li You, who had been protecting the ball sideways, took a quick test step with his left foot and suddenly exerted force on his foot. He closed his feet and took a pull-up jump shot!
"Whoa!" Another three-pointer!
At 64:61, the Knicks took the lead again.
Hornacek was confused, so he just threw it away? And he got in?
The Knicks atmosphere team also became active at this time, yelling along.
Stockton seemed unaffected and passed the half step by step, quickly directing his teammates to get into position.
A cross screen under the basket, and then Karl Malone came to the right elbow area and asked for the ball with his back.
After receiving a pass from Stockton, Malone turned around, faced the frame, attacked quickly, took a quick test step with his right foot, and then shot a mid-range jumper!
"state!"
In a rare opportunity, Ewing grabbed the rebound and quickly threw the ball forward. Just after crossing the center line, Li You received the pass near the right sideline.
Russell, who was chasing after the ball, saw Li You slowing down after catching the ball and immediately started a physical confrontation. At the same time, everyone on the Jazz team was also quickly retreating from defense.
Li You, holding the ball in his left hand, came to the right wing against the defense, stepped on the three-point line, and quickly crossed and pulled back.
The moment he switched to his right hand, he adjusted his steps, took advantage of Russell's hand to defend, and dribbled the ball under his hips very quickly twice in a row. His body swayed, and then he used force under his feet to quickly retreat.
With a slight space to shoot, Li You resisted the opponent's block and converted a three-pointer to make another jump shot!
"Bangsha!"
The basketball first hit the front edge of the basket, bounced high and then fell into the basket.
67:61, the score difference reached 6 points, and the Knicks atmosphere team threw the towel wildly.
Once again, he was thrown to the floor by the opponent. When Li You saw the ball go in, he immediately got up and punched the Jazz fans who couldn't hold back.
Brian Russell is so stupid that it’s no use showing his face.
At the final moment of the third quarter, Malone once again attacked the basket and stood on the free throw line to help the Jazz narrow the point difference.
For the Knicks, Li You began to take over the pot, and Ewing failed to finish at the basket.
Jeff Van Gundy couldn't wait for the game to end. He was so anxious that he screamed unconsciously on the sidelines. Charlie Ward still couldn't get a free throw when he threw himself in the air.
With 6 seconds left in the third quarter, as Stockton drove to the basket and made two free throws, the score reached 67:65.
The Jazz fans at the scene cheered, and the Knicks took a baseline kick. After Li You received the ball, Russell quickly led the defense.
Realizing that there was not enough time, Li You didn't pass halftime and threw the ball to the basket at will.
No one on the Jazz team paid attention at all, and the fans were still cheering loudly. When the timer light came on, the basketball hit the net.
The Delta Center Arena suddenly became quiet again. Li You was stunned at first, and then immediately pretended to be X, smiling and walking to the bench with his hands raised.
"ah!!"
Ewing and Oakley rushed over, hugged Li You and shouted excitedly, even though there was still one quarter to play, and the 5-point difference was enough for them to relax for a few minutes.
70:65, after three quarters, the Knicks led by 5 points.
In the commentary box, Doug Collins was also dumbfounded. He glanced at the technical statistics and praised loudly:
"God! Incredible performance, the Knicks overtook the score in this quarter!"
"6 of 9 in a single quarter, 3 of 3 free throws, all shots were outside the three-point line, Li scored 21 points in a single quarter!"
Isiah Thomas also didn't expect that Li You relied on three-pointers to prop up the Knicks' offense:
"Incredible shooting talent, but the 5-point difference is still within reach. The Jazz still have a chance!"
Falling behind in the third quarter, there was no need for a break in the final quarter.
Both sides unanimously chose to fight the main force. Jeff Van Gundy replaced Chris Childs, and the two defenders took turns to consume Stockton.
"Defense! Defense! Defense!"
The Knicks took the lead in attacking. Russell was attacked by Li You at this time. Hornacek couldn't stand it anymore and chose to switch defense in desperation.
Li You had the right touch and quickly slipped across the baseline from right to left. After the outside shot, he crossed the line again, almost circling the court, and came to the right flank again.
Russell was chasing after him desperately, and when he saw Li You catching the ball, he threw it away and jumped up from his side again to block the shot!
"Bangbang, shua!"
The basketball still hit the front edge of the basket, bounced high, and finally fell into the basket after a bump.
"Shhh!!"
Seeing Li You fall to the ground again, Jeff Van Gundy complained loudly to the referee. Instead, he was given a verbal warning and was finally pulled back collectively by the Knicks team.
Standing up quickly, Li You smiled at the Jazz substitute, which made the fans in the front row spit out sweet things.
At 73:65, the Knicks led by 8 points. Ewing and Oakley's morale was greatly boosted at this time, and soon the two sides entered an ugly hand-to-hand battle.
After Li You hit the three-pointer, he started to hit the ball hard, and Russell who defended him made fouls.
Complaining had no effect, and the Knicks began to rush to the basket again.
At this time, the Jazz made consecutive shots and penalties, slowly narrowing the point difference.
With 58 seconds left in the game, the score reached 80:80.
Seeing that the attack time was about to reach 24 seconds, Li You took over again. At this time, Russell defended with all his strength, flanking on the right, constantly pressing Li You to the sideline.
The attack time was about to come. Li You simply dribbled the ball behind his back. After switching to his left hand, he took a big step and suddenly stopped.
Li You feinted with the ball, and Russell subconsciously blocked the shot from the side. As a result, he found that Li You was still on the spot and it was too late to turn his body around.
After successfully hitting the time difference, Li You took advantage of the situation and flipped up, threw the ball casually, and shouted again:
"My bowl!"
"squeak!"
The foul action this time was too obvious, and Li You was successfully tricked into committing a foul.
On the Knicks' bench, the atmosphere team screamed, several people hugged each other, jumped up and started celebrating.
With 52 seconds left in the game, Li You stood on the free throw line. Russell was still explaining to the referee, but the result of the penalty would not change.
Jazz fans at the scene made loud noises in an attempt to interfere with the free throws.
But as Li You made all three free throws, there were only exclamations in the arena.
At 83:80, the Jazz were forced to request a timeout.
Jeff Van Gundy squatted on the floor and loudly reminded everyone to pay attention:
"If we hold on to this round, we will get the match point, hold on!"
Oakley gasped for air and successfully controlled the foul tonight, but the physical exertion was too great.
Li You's physical fitness has also bottomed out at this time, and he has used all his tricks to cheat fouls. He has tried his best in this game.
After the timeout, the Jazz successfully launched a quick attack. Karl Malone caught the ball in a pick-and-roll and went straight to the basket, easily scoring points.
83:82, there are 40 seconds left in the game. Chris-Chalez and Li You take turns to spend time on the outer rays and find opportunities by the way.
In the entire 4th quarter, most of the Knicks teams scored on the second offensive basket and free throws.
At the last moment, Li You was folded again on the left side of the wing on the left. Chris-Charles on the top of the arc received the ball, and then inserted straight.
Attract the defense and quickly divide the ball to Ewing. As a result, Malone responded faster, and did not give gorillas a chance to complete the foul.
"Shhh!!"
Ewing stood on the free throw line, and the scene booed at the scene. Everyone next to the Knicks was praying. The first free throw hit the iron, and immediately cheered at the scene.
The second penalty is still not the same, Eric is struggling to grab the frontcourt rebounds, but Foster firmly protects the backcourt rebounds at this time.
There was no suspension. There was the last 18 left in the game. The Jazz has the opportunity to lore the game. The fans on the scene all got up and watched the ball. By the way, they cheered for the home team.
Stockon pressed the time to the end, and Carl Malone took the ball again in the right block.
Swift, tentatively tentatively on the right foot, then put the ball quickly on the right hand, the Malone's face broke through, and again under the basket.
At the bottom right of the basket, the ball shakes the ball and cheated Oakli. When Malone shot again, it was blocked by a foul -defense Ewing.
"squeak!!"
With the last 2.3 seconds left in the game, Carl Malone got two free throws.
At this time, Oakli gasped, stood beside the paint area, and immediately said loudly:
"If he can't get a penalty, we will win, and we can get the championship in the end."
Malone kept taking a deep breath, and the jazz fans at the scene were quiet.
Standing on the penalty line, Malone's first punishment stabilized the iron, and a huge shock sounded immediately.
For the second free throw, Malone was obviously more nervous. After a moment, he threw the ball out.
"state!"
Basketball was at the forefront of the basket, the Jazz fans exclaimed, and then saw Malone rushing to the basket instantly, grabbing the rebound.
In the blink of an eye, in the paint area, the basket was in front of the basket, and Malone completed the throwing, but the ball was rushed to Li You's hat when the ball was taken off.
"oh!!"
The jazz fans at the scene could not stand at all, and they all screamed. At the critical moment, Russell had no card, and Li You completed the block!
The basketball played on the rebound, and the basket rushed into a ball, and then the buzzing sound of the final game sounded.
"ah!!"
All of the Nixe team cheered, rushed to Li Youli like crazy, hugged together, excitedly shouted.
Carl Malone grabbed the basketball, and it seemed to be difficult to believe in such a result, looking straight at the score.
At this time, Jeff Van Gambi raised his hands at this time, jumping around the sidelines, and unconsciously shouted to vent his excitement in his heart.
On the NBC commentary, the three also breathed a sigh of relief. Bob Costas saw Malone standing in a dumbness under the basket and sighed:
"Karl Malone can become the hero of tonight. Li's cover may shatter the Jazz's champion dream!"
Doug-Collins saw Stockon's head down and walked towards the player channel, and felt a pity for the veteran:
"The Jazz perfectly executed the game plan, and the Knicks team scored hardly in the last quarter."
After hearing the emotion of the two, Isea Thomas looked at the technical statistics and said with a smile:
"40 points, 4 rebounds, 6 assists, 1 steal, 1 block, 2 mistakes and 2 mistakes. Such a performance is incredible, Li is worth a victory!"
24 of 24, 9 of 17 out of the three-point line, 9 of 9 of free throws. Seeing Li You's technical statistics, Doug-Collins shook his head subconsciously:
"Unbelievable, most of Li's scores are outside the three -point line. In my impression, almost all of them are difficult."
Bob Costas had heard the tips from the guide at this time, and summarized it with a smile:
"Congratulations to the Knicks team to get the game point, 9 three-pointers in a single game, Li Zhanping took the 96-97 season, Cres Chapman set a three-pointer record for playoffs."
"At the same time, Li has also become the youngest 40 -point player in the history of the NBA playoffs!"
The Delta Central Stadium became more and more scolded, but the Knicks team did not care. The atmosphere group hugged Li You without letting go, and everyone quickly walked towards the player channel.
Although he won a stumbling trip, Li You was in a good mood. When he got the game, there was not much suspense in the series.
Thinking of the unlucky egg Carl Malong, Li You really wanted to shout:
"Give you a chance, you don't use it!"
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(End of chapter)
