Double Fly Duo, the Strongest Duo in History! "You fought until the very last second tonight. You deserve the applause of every fan in the arena."
"You'll always be my best frontcourt partner."
Those two simple exchanges dispelled all the media-fueled tension from before the game.
Barkley then looked toward Jordan beside him and took the initiative to offer a handshake.
"Your duo has no rivals."
Jordan nodded in response, his expression calm.
"The Lakers' OK Duo is still waiting for us. The real tough battle hasn't arrived yet."
In the postgame mixed interview zone, reporters swarmed around Li Fei and Jordan.
Everyone was asking about the historic spectacle of two players scoring 20+ points each in separate quarters.
A reporter turned to Li Fei with a question.
"Lee, you and Michael each scored 20+ in a single quarter, setting NBA history. How do you feel?"
Facing the cameras, Li Fei remained composed and answered casually.
"It was just a normal performance in a regular game."
"We just did our respective jobs. He handled the perimeter, and I handled the paint."
The reporter immediately turned to Jordan.
"Michael, everyone is worried that the Knicks may be running themselves into the ground physically. Will you consider resting in the upcoming regular-season games?"
Jordan's gaze was sharp as he faced the cameras broadcasting across the United States.
"No rest. No taking it easy. No lowering the intensity in any game."
"We'll face the Los Angeles Lakers with an undefeated record and in peak physical condition."
The interview footage was broadcast simultaneously to the Lakers' training facility in Los Angeles.
After watching the interview, O'Neal's expression grew increasingly grim.
Kobe clenched his fists, the fighting spirit in his eyes nearly bursting forth.
The Knicks had won sixteen straight, and a historic two-star spectacle