The New York Post followed closely behind, publishing an even more aggressive and inflammatory in-depth report.
The headline struck straight at the sore spot, creating a fierce clash of public opinion.
[Cracks Beneath the Championship Halo! Li Fei's Perfect Image Collapses, Betrayal During Pregnancy Sparks Controversy!]
The article's wording was sharp and cruel, filled with subjective speculation and utterly lacking in objectivity or neutrality.
"Six straight MVPs, six championships, a Defensive Player of the Year grand slam, a business titan."
"Li Fei holds the most dazzling list of individual honors in NBA history and has dominated the league for years."
"He is the unquestioned king on the court and a business mogul whose brands are worth billions."
"But tonight, cracks have finally appeared in his perfect image."
"While the woman he loved carried his child and bore the burden of their family."
"This Dynasty superstar was meeting another woman alone late at night on the road."
"Twenty minutes of private time alone were enough to spark countless reasonable suspicions."
"There was no work discussion, no team meeting. It was just the two of them alone late at night."
"Any explanation looked pale and powerless before the visual evidence."
ESPN's entertainment section was even more skilled at playing on its audience's psychology, sensationalizing every detail.
The report deliberately magnified Larsa Pippen's outfit, demeanor, and the atmosphere surrounding her.
"That night, Larsa Pippen was dressed with unmistakable feminine charm, her fitted clothes outlining her exceptional figure."
"Her makeup was exquisite and appropriate, and she appeared relaxed. Clearly, she had dressed up carefully for this meeting."
"When she left the hotel, she looked slightly despondent, her steps gentle."
"Those subtle expressions further proved that the two had engaged in private exchanges inside the room."
"Meanwhile, Li Fei's recent on-court performances had been restrained