Los Angeles Hua Tuo Team, Sabonis Will Return!

After hanging up, Li Fei pulled up Kobe's number and called him.

The call was answered quickly. Kobe's slightly breathless voice came through, with the thump-thump of a basketball hitting the floor audible in the background.

"Hey, Li. What do you need?"

"Congratulations on Western Conference Player of the Month."

Li Fei said with a smile, "You played well, kid."

Kobe chuckled softly, his voice carrying the swagger of a young man tasting success. "Thanks. But this is only the beginning. That old guy in the Eastern Conference has insane numbers. I need to work even harder."

"I've already had the company speed things up. Your first-generation signature shoe will officially go on sale within a month." Li Fei dropped the bombshell.

"Really?!"

Kobe's voice instantly jumped an octave, filled with surprise and excitement. "That's awesome! Li, thank you so much! I'll wear them and destroy every opponent on the court!"

"Including me?" Li Fei teased.

"Of course!"

Kobe answered without hesitation, his tone full of challenge and hunger. "We're facing each other this month, and I can't wait! Even though you're playing center now, so you won't be guarding me—that's a little disappointing... but I'll find you on the court and score over your head! I'll show the whole world just how good your brand ambassador is!"

Li Fei could clearly feel the soaring fighting spirit emanating from Kobe through the phone. He smiled. "I'll be waiting."

Yet fate always seemed to enjoy staging dramatic twists at the most crucial moments.

The day after Li Fei's call with Kobe, news that thrilled all of New York arrived during a Knicks practice.

After giving Sabonis a thorough follow-up examination, team doctor Fink approached head coach Van Gundy and Li Fei with a delighted expression.

"Good news, gentlemen!"

Fink waved the