The Championship, I Want It; the Business Empire, I Want That Too! Larsa Pippen brought over a cup of warm water, gently set it beside Li Fei, then stood quietly to one side, keeping him silent company.
Li Fei raised a hand to signal that they needn't worry, then continued into the phone, "After this season, if we can win a fourth straight championship, my value will double again."
"At that point, whether I re-sign with the Knicks or choose another team, I'll have absolute control over the decision."
David Falk fell silent for a moment. He had to admit that Li Fei was right.
The current Li Fei was already the league's number one player. With five championships and five FMVPs under his belt, he had built a dynasty at just twenty-three.
If he won an unprecedented fourth consecutive title, his place in history would be completely cemented, and his commercial value would soar as well.
"I know you have the confidence," David Falk said, his tone gradually calming, "but the Knicks are in New York—the biggest market in the league. This is the best place for your brand to grow."
Li Fei chuckled, a hint of humor in his voice. "David, you've forgotten. I didn't come to New York because I planned to stay with the Knicks forever."
"I came here for the Li Fei Brand, to build my business empire. New York's market was only a stepping stone toward my goals."
Those words instantly woke David Falk up.
He recalled that when Li Fei had first transferred from the Phoenix Suns to the Knicks, he had made it clear that New York's exposure and commercial resources were the core reasons for his choice.
Back then, the Li Fei Brand was still in its infancy and badly needed