At the end, Doncic looked into the camera and said:
"Lastly, I want to say this to Wang Yi: I'm begging you to play for two more seasons."
"The Lakers have lost Arthur, and they're about to lose me too. They need a leader, an undisputed core player."
"And you're the only one who can fill that role. So I'm begging you to stay, Wang. Please."
He spoke with such emotion that even the reporters at the scene couldn't help but be moved.
But Wang Yi, who was watching the press conference on TV, just laughed and shook his head, cursing under his breath:
"That damn Dongzi."
"I'm only a year younger than you, and now you're retiring but insisting I stay."
"So the officials can set fires while the common people aren't allowed to light lamps?"
"I'm tired too, you know. Do you think I'm not?"
"I'm retiring right now. I'll post it on Twitter!"
Of course, Wang Yi was only joking.
He was still thinking about whether to retire.
The news of Doncic's retirement shocked Lakers Fans around the world.
Many fans began urging Doncic to stay of their own accord:
"Luka, stay!"
"Luka, the Lakers need you, and Wang Yi needs you!"
"Luka, European Magician, let your magic continue next season."
But no amount of pleading could change anything now.
Once a man had made up his mind, it was hard to turn him back.
Wang Yi posted a message of support on Twitter and all his other social media accounts:
"Luka, European Magician, your career has already been great enough."
"Now it's time to start a new chapter in your life. I wish you all the best in the future, and happiness and a wonderful family life."
"To my comrade, my teammate, my friend—I wish you