The competition is about to begin, the battle of the century, on the verge of breaking out!

"What's more, Madison Square Garden is absolutely electric today. This home-court advantage isn't just about the venue—it's an advantage in morale. The fans' roars will become the Knicks players' strongest support, putting enormous pressure on the Lakers."

Kevin Harlan spoke again, his tone filled with anticipation. "As one of the league's very best stars, Li Fei has won the regular-season MVP for four straight years and captured four championships. There's no questioning his ability. At 2.24 meters tall, with an unstoppable mid-range game and tough defense, he will be the key to a Knicks victory."

"Sprewell's return has made the Knicks' offense more complete. His fire and attacking power will bring even more energy to the team. Houston's mid-range shooting, Sabonis's interior defense, Marshall's three-pointers—every player will be an important force in the Knicks' pursuit of a three-peat."

"On the Lakers' side, Kobe's fighting spirit, O'Neal's dominance, and Phil Jackson's tactics cannot be underestimated either. They won't give up easily. They'll certainly give everything they have to shatter the Knicks' dream of a three-peat."

"There are no weak teams in this game, no losers. No matter which team wins, they'll give us a spectacular basketball feast. Let's wait and see!"

After the commentators finished their analysis, the atmosphere heated up once more. Cheers and shouts rang throughout the arena again as fans waved flags and signs, eagerly awaiting the players' entrance.

Ten minutes remained before tip-off. Players from both teams began entering the court one after another for their pregame warmups, while the arena announcer began introducing the starting lineups.

The Lakers players came out first. Wearing their purple-and-gold uniforms, they slowly emerged from the tunnel to a mix of boos and cheers from Knicks fans throughout the arena—the boos full of provocation, the cheers full of confidence.

Kobe led