"I know everyone thinks we've got the championship in the bag."
"The media are singing our praises, the fans are celebrating, and everyone's already talking about the Four-Peat."
"But I'm telling you, the real test is only beginning."
Van Gundy brought up a video compilation of their second-half mistakes in Game 4.
"Other than Li Fei, none of us could find our shot."
"Our defensive rotations broke down repeatedly, and we had serious problems managing our energy."
"The Lakers kept cutting into our lead in the fourth. For a while, we were in real trouble."
"We won tonight because our stars were good enough to carry us, not because the team played perfectly."
The players lowered their heads and listened closely. No one argued. No one let down his guard.
The discipline at the heart of this team was what had allowed it to build a dynasty.
In Li Fei and Jordan, it had two fiercely competitive superstars who treated every game with respect.
Neither would tolerate arrogance, complacency, or taking an opponent lightly.
Li Fei spoke up at the right moment, adding his priorities for the next game.
"The Lakers' fightback with their backs against the wall will be stronger than anyone expects."
"Phil Jackson is a legendary coach who knows better than anyone how to adjust when things look hopeless."
"Kobe's will to fight and O'Neal's dominance inside aren't going away quietly."
"Game 5 is on our home court, but home court has never guaranteed a win."
"We need to forget about luck and prepare as though the series is tied zero-zero."
Jordan followed, his voice firm as he urged the team to stay steady.
"The pressure of a Game 7, the pressure of a clinching game—either can break a team."
"The closer we get to the championship,