Across the United States, countless fans erupted into heated discussion.
On the streets of New York, hordes of Knicks fans poured outside, waving flags and cheering.
In Los Angeles bars, Purple and Gold fans raised their glasses in celebration, hoping their team would claim the championship and topple the Knicks Dynasty.
Sports media outlets rushed to prepare their front-page headlines overnight.
"An Epic NBA Finals Clash: The OK Duo Challenges the Li Fei-Jordan Dynasty"
"Lakers Avenge Spurs Loss, Advance to NBA Finals, Launch Assault on Knicks Throne"
ESPN columnists had already begun breaking down the matchup advantages on both sides.
The Lakers' strengths lay in O'Neal's overpowering presence inside and Kobe's ability to solve tough possessions one-on-one in clutch moments.
The Knicks' confidence came from Li Fei's dominant two-way control across the entire court, along with Jordan's masterful perimeter shot creation.
Both sides possessed elite duos and ample big-game experience.
Neither side held an absolutely overwhelming advantage.
Every matchup was full of suspense.
Far away in the San Antonio Spurs locker room, the atmosphere remained gloomy.
Popovich sat before the tactics board, comforting the players.
"This season is over, but this team's story isn't over."
"Duncan, Robinson, you played a great series."
Duncan sat in his chair, wiping the sweat from his face with a towel.
He looked at Robinson beside him, his eyes filled with reluctance but also reflection.
They had fought until the final moment, only to lose to the more consistent opponent.
David Robinson let out a sigh.
"We gave it everything. The Lakers deserved this win."
The locker room television was still airing TNT's NBA Finals preview discussion.
Hearing that the Lakers would face the Knicks, Robinson raised his eyes toward the screen.
"Li Fei and Jordan's Knicks will be an extremely difficult opponent."
Duncan nodded