The Last Dance, Paying for Sentiment!

Kevin Harlan smiled and played peacemaker. "Bill is always so passionate. So what about the Western Conference? The OK Duo just went through a Game 7 battle. Against the well-rested San Antonio Spurs, how good are their chances?"

This time, Bill Walton turned serious. "This matchup is where the real suspense lies. The Lakers have the most devastating inside-out combination in the league. Shaq is unstoppable in the paint, while Kobe proved in Game 7 that he has completed his transformation—he has learned how to play smarter. But their opponent is Gregg Popovich and his San Antonio Spurs."

"The twin towers of Tim Duncan and David Robinson are the only frontcourt in the league capable of somewhat containing O'Neal in terms of size and strength. They won't let Shaq wreak havoc in the paint so easily. And the Spurs' defensive system is historically great. Like a precision machine, they will sever the connection between Kobe and Shaq and force the other Lakers to take shots. I think this series will be incredibly tight, with every point fought over fiercely. Both sides have a chance, but I predict this series will go to Game 7. Who laughs last will depend on how the stars perform in the clutch."

Marv Albert agreed as well. "I agree with Bill. The Lakers have greater talent, but the Spurs are stronger as a unit and more disciplined. This will be the ultimate clash between spear and shield. A Game 7 is almost inevitable."

The studio discussion was in full swing, but on the streets of New York, another war had long since begun.

On Fifth Avenue, the line outside Li Fei Brand's global flagship store stretched from one end of the street to the other, a scene comparable to the launch of the latest iPhone.