McGrady: Just Like Before, State Surging!

McGrady bricked it.

It was completely expected. In his retirement year, ravaged by injuries, McGrady was only capable of this much.

Of course.

That also had to do with him playing on the NBA stage.

Later, when he went to the CBA, McGrady immediately became the centerpiece.

That was a story for later, so there was no need to say more for now.

The game continued.

The sides switched between offense and defense.

The Knicks failed to score as well.

The Hawks secured the defensive rebound and gave it to McGrady. Whether he could make it or not, they had to let McGrady attack.

That was the point of the Hawks signing him.

With "T-Mac" on the court came ratings. In this commercial league, McGrady meant popularity.

That was why he could still play in the NBA.

"Bang! Bang! Bang!"

McGrady understood it well. He had already decided that once he finished out this season's contract, he would retire.

Though reluctant.

He had no choice.

Once he truly accepted that thought, he felt liberated and played more freely instead.

He set up on the right side of the top of the key.

Matched up against Butler, McGrady still had those sleepy eyes and that familiar behind-the-back dribble. Everything was the same as before.

Only...

His ability to shake defenders had declined.

And his shooting percentage was worlds apart from what it used to be.

"Whoosh!"

Just like before.

As on the previous possession, McGrady held the ball in his right hand, feinted a drive, then rose straight up again and fired a three-pointer over Butler's defense.

Precise and flawless.

"Swish!"

Nothing but net.

McGrady made his second attempt, knocking down the three-pointer.

He was still as graceful and carefree as ever.

But the fans did not care at all. They