Public opinion across the United States flipped! Rival fans clashed as suspense over the NBA Finals exploded.
The lights at New York's Madison Square Garden had gone out.
But the media storm unleashed by the stunning Game 5 comeback had only just begun sweeping across the United States.
Less than half an hour after the game ended, North America's major sports outlets rushed out late-night headlines.
Every prewritten article celebrating the Knicks' four-peat coronation was scrapped.
In their place came a flood of in-depth reports on the Lakers' escape from elimination and the renewed suspense surrounding the NBA Finals.
ESPN replaced the banner on its homepage, pinning a brand-new NBA Finals feature at the top.
Its enormous, striking headline overturned every previous championship prediction.
"The Purple and Gold refused to die! Lakers toppled the dynasty on the road to force Game 6!"
The lengthy lead feature broke down the entire contest in the hard-hitting language of American sports journalism.
Its opening went straight to the heart of the matter, shattering a historical curse that had loomed over the NBA for decades.
"Everyone was certain the Lakers, down 3–1, were destined for a dismal exit."
"Ninety percent of analysts across the United States had pronounced the Lakers dead, waiting for the dynasty to complete a gentleman's sweep."
"But Kobe and O'Neal joined forces to tear those verdicts apart with one gritty victory."
The report devoted particular praise to the Lakers' transformed mentality and tactical improvements.
Phil Jackson's ability to adjust with his back against the wall became the centerpiece of the article.
It pointed out that the Zen Master had seen through the Knicks' restless overconfidence with a chance to clinch the title.
His targeted offensive and defensive schemes had perfectly countered the dynasty's complacent play.
The OK Duo had finally