The winning team did not dare relax either, fully sharpening its form for the next matchup.
Inside the Philadelphia 76ers' practice facility, the entire team began an intense closed training camp.
The lesson from their crushing Game 1 defeat made everyone fully recognize the gap in strength between the two teams.
The coaching staff broke down the game footage overnight, focusing on defensive schemes for matching up against Jordan.
The team repeatedly drilled pick-and-rolls, switches, and help-defense rotations, striving to limit Jordan's damage.
Iverson gave up unnecessary rest to put in extra work on difficult shots and separation moves.
His gaze grew sharper and sharper, filled with the fury and obsession of turning the series around.
He knew that Game 2 back at home was the Philadelphia 76ers' last chance to reverse the situation.
Another loss would send the series into an utterly hopeless abyss.
Over on the New York Knicks' side, the atmosphere in practice remained calm and relaxed.
The team did not let its big opening-game win lower its guard and continued preparing steadily.
Van Gundy made targeted tactical adjustments, anticipating the Philadelphia 76ers' counterattack.
He especially reminded the perimeter players to guard against Iverson's desperate eruption and sudden three-pointers.
Jordan voluntarily worked on his low-post game and perimeter defense, maintaining his peak competitive condition.
After the easy win in the opening game, he grew increasingly comfortable at containing Iverson.
Li Fei continued his health-conscious training routine, without deliberately draining his stamina.
Every day, he polished his core skills, including his signature pull-up mid-range jumper and turnaround jumper.
His Titanium Alloy Physique allowed him to maintain a fully charged state without excessive training.
He was calm and composed, having long since seen through the outcome of this series.
The Philadelphia 76ers' hero-ball approach could never stand against the