Facing his first NBA Finals Game 7, O'Neal talked tough, but nerves lurked beneath the surface. All he could do was fire himself up with fighting words.
As the Lakers' interviews wrapped up, the reporters immediately swarmed toward the Knicks' bench on the other side of the court.
Everyone knew that any discussion of Game 7 had to start with the Knicks' undisputed centerpiece—Li Fei.
And with Sabonis, who would have to face O'Neal's onslaught in the paint.
Li Fei had just finished a round of midrange warm-up shots and slowly walked over to the media interview area.
At seven feet four, he towered above the crowd with an unmistakable presence.
He was powerfully built yet well proportioned, with broad shoulders and an exceptionally handsome East Asian face. His expression was calm and composed, betraying nothing.
He wore the Knicks' blue No. 1 home jersey and the latest signature shoes from his own brand. He carried himself with quiet strength and effortless composure.
The reporters immediately gathered around him, every camera trained on his face.
One reporter went straight to the point. "Li Fei, Kobe just said in his interview that he's been through countless NBA Finals and Game 7s, and that he feels completely calm. What do you think of his comments? And how have you prepared for this Game 7?"
The corners of Li Fei's mouth lifted into a faint, easy smile. He spoke without rushing, yet his presence commanded the entire gathering.
"Kobe is right. This isn't his first NBA Finals, and it isn't his first time stepping onto the Game 7 stage."
"That kind of big-game experience deserves respect."
Then his tone shifted slightly, and his gaze sharpened.
"But when it comes to Game 7 experience, my story is different."
"You should all remember that when