"I also want to thank my coaching staff, the team's logistics personnel, and operations staff. Thank you for your quiet dedication behind the scenes, for providing solid support for the team's victory. Without you, we could not have achieved this great accomplishment."
"Finally, I want to thank the Knicks fans and the New York fans. Thank you for your constant support and encouragement. Thank you for never abandoning us during our difficult times. Your shouts and cheers gave us the motivation to keep moving forward. This honor belongs to you as well!"
As Jeff Van Gundy's words fell, thunderous cheers and applause erupted once more. The fans wildly chanted "Van Gundy!" and "Li Fei!" The applause and cries went on and on.
Jeff Van Gundy gave a deep bow, then returned the microphone to David Stern. He slowly stepped down from the presentation stage and returned to the players, embracing them tightly.
David Stern took the microphone, his face still bearing a gentle smile. Looking at the players on the court and the fans in the stands, he said solemnly, "Next comes the most exciting moment. We will announce the 1999–2000 NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award—FMVP!"
The arena instantly fell silent. Everyone's eyes focused on David Stern. The fans held their breath, awaiting the answer, while the players turned toward the presentation stage, their eyes filled with anticipation and nervousness.
No one doubted who this award would belong to. Everyone knew that Li Fei was the only possible choice—the FMVP in every sense of the word.
David Stern paused slightly, deliberately keeping everyone in suspense. Then, in a loud and solemn voice, he announced, "The recipient of the 1999–2000 NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award is—"
He paused, shifted his gaze to Li Fei, and said word by word,