The TNT broadcast booth had long been set up, with its three star commentators—Kevin Harlan, Marv Albert, and Bill Walton—all in their seats.
Taking in the atmosphere inside the arena, the three could not help but begin their pregame analysis early.
Kevin Harlan spoke first, his tone full of emotion.
"I've called NBA games for over twenty years, and I've never seen an opening-night atmosphere quite like this."
"There is no pure hostility, no complete hatred—only the ultimate collision of sentiment and competition."
Marv Albert nodded in agreement, his eyes fixed on the players from both teams on the court.
"The league's scheduling this time is nothing short of genius."
"Postponing the Knicks' ring ceremony and making Jordan's return to Chicago the season opener—this has taken the hype straight through the roof."
As a legendary big man, Bill Walton paid greater attention to the teams' raw competitive strength.
"Setting aside all the emotional filters, this matchup between these two teams represents the highest level of the new season."
"The Knicks have Li Fei, a mountain in the paint, along with Jordan strengthening the perimeter. They have no weaknesses on either end."
"After their offseason additions, the Bulls have Malone's iron-blooded interior presence, Cassell's control of the tempo, and Ewing anchoring the bench."
"This new-look Bulls team absolutely has what it takes to topple the Dynasty."
On both sides of the court, the players gradually finished warming up and returned to their benches to rest.
The atmosphere on the Knicks' bench was steady and quiet.
Head coach Van Gundy looked calm, without any unnecessary fiery speeches.
He knew his team too well. With the foundation of a five-year Dynasty, there was no need for deliberate motivation.
Veterans like Sprewell and Allan Houston looked relaxed, their eyes focused.
Young reserves like Stephen