Of course, not everyone received a personalized ring with their name on it.
Only players who had contributed on the court during the Finals could receive a personalized ring. That was an established convention.
The Championship Rings began to be handed out. Each time Kenny Smith called a name, that person went onstage to receive his ring.
First came the team executives, then the coaching staff, and finally the players.
Tang Tian was the first player to step onto the stage.
When Smith drew out his name, the entire New Orleans Arena erupted.
Last season's championship still felt like yesterday. This Championship Ring ceremony was another reminder that they were champions!
Tang Tian walked up to Xiao Hua and felt inexplicably pleased when he saw the man's forced smile.
"Congratulations."
Xiao Hua handed the ring to Tang Tian and offered his fake congratulations.
"Thanks. I'll have to trouble you again next year."
Tang Tian replied with equally fake politeness.
Next year?
Xiao Hua froze for a moment, but Tang Tian had already turned and walked away with the ring, not even giving him a hug!
This guy!
Was he saying the Pelicans would definitely repeat as champions?!
After Tang Tian, Davis, Jokic... every Pelicans player who received a ring refused to hug Xiao Hua.
The officiating problems in last year's Finals had left them deeply dissatisfied. This was their silent protest!
The crowd began jeering as well.
Xiao Hua kept smiling, but it was obvious that he was forcing it.
The Pelicans had really given him a show of force.
After the rings were handed out, the players put them on and posed happily for the camera lens.
The Championship Trophy belonged to the team, but the rings belonged to them personally. They were proof of being champions.
After the