Ultimate Showdown, Knicks' Third-Quarter Madness Arrives!

Facing Li Fei's mountain-like, impenetrable defense, Kobe did not choose to force his way through this time.

He knew that in a pure physical battle, he could not gain any advantage for now.

He began using a series of highly deceptive between-the-legs dribbles and crossovers, trying to shake Li Fei's balance.

However, Li Fei's feet seemed rooted to the Staples Center floor. No matter how flashy Kobe's moves were, his core remained steady, his eyes locked firmly on Kobe's shoulders and the basketball. There was not a ripple in those deep eyes.

"Kobe is trying to challenge Li Fei with skill! But Li Fei's defense is too solid! His lower-body strength and anticipation are simply monstrous!" Marv Albert's voice was taut with tension.

The shot clock ticked away second by second, and Kobe finally chose a step-back jumper!

He had taken the motion to its absolute limit, leaning so far back in midair that his body was nearly parallel to the floor. It was an extremely difficult shot.

But at the instant he released it, that seemingly omnipresent giant hand once again blotted out every trace of light before his eyes!

Smack!

With a crisp, thunderous crack, the basketball was viciously swatted away by Li Fei's fingertips!

"Another block! Li Fei has already given Kobe two blocks tonight!" Bill Walton exclaimed. "He's like Kobe's nightmare!"

After the ball was knocked away, the Knicks' "Grandmama," Larry Johnson, grabbed possession and immediately launched a fast break.

With one long stride, Li Fei was already charging downcourt like a heavy truck accelerating at full speed.

Larry Johnson understood at once. With a precise long pass, the basketball sailed across more than half the court like a cruise missile guided with pinpoint accuracy, landing securely in Li Fei's hands.

Li Fei caught the ball