"Boss! Good morning!" Early the next morning, just as sunlight broke through the clouds and spilled over the earth, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Andre Drummond, who were participating in the Rookie Challenge, eagerly arrived outside Goodwin's room. Their faces were full of youthful energy as they greeted him enthusiastically.
Giannis Antetokounmpo was a rookie this year, while Drummond had already spent a year grinding it out in the league and was considered a sophomore player.
However, the Rookie Challenge rules had placed the two of them on the same team, Grant Hill's team, and they would face Chris Webber's team in a fierce matchup that night!
"Good morning!" Goodwin replied with a smile, his warm expression seeming capable of driving away the morning chill.
Looking at the two energetic youngsters before him, he asked with concern, "So, are you confident about tonight's game?"
"Of course we are!" Giannis said excitedly, nearly jumping up and down. His bright eyes shone with excitement.
This big kid from Greece had once only been able to watch such a grand event enviously from in front of a television. Now, he had the chance to take part in it himself. To him, the feeling was as wonderful as a dream.
"Don't worry, Boss. We'll definitely win!" Drummond promised confidently from the side, patting his chest. His tall, muscular frame exuded a powerful presence that made people instinctively believe him.
Goodwin nodded in satisfaction, then reached out and lightly patted each of their broad shoulders. "Don't put too much pressure on yourselves. Relax and enjoy this All-Star trip. This isn't just a game—it's also a rare opportunity to gain experience and grow."
With that, Goodwin turned, waved, and headed toward the gym with firm strides, ready to begin a new day's morning workout.
After finishing his workout,