June 11, 1999.
Charlotte, North Carolina.
"This is the NBA Finals! Lakers versus Hornets! GAME TWO!"
"In the previous game, the Charlotte Hornets crushed the Los Angeles Lakers! Let's see how both teams perform tonight."
"Tonight's commentary guests are Larry Bird, Julius Erving, Penny Hardaway, and Marv Albert!"
"LARRY LEGEND! Long time no see. You've done a great job in Indiana—that Pacers team has a lot of fire." Marv praised Bird.
"Yes, Larry's coaching in Indiana has been excellent." Penny, who had been eliminated in the first round of the playoffs, had received an invitation to commentate.
"Penny, you flatter me. We still didn't make the Eastern Conference Finals. I hope we can meet your Magic there next year. Also, have you considered switching positions?" Having become a coach, Larry Bird had shed the arrogance of his playing days and appeared exceptionally polite.
Larry, if you'd been this polite during your playing career, I wouldn't have beaten you up. Dr. J recalled the scene from back then—Barkley holding Bird down while he delivered a combination punch to Bird's face.
That iconic moment remained unforgettable to many fans even now.
"Dr. J! Which side do you think will win this game?" Marv asked Julius Erving.
"The Hornets. I think very highly of Grant Hill on the Hornets. He's the strongest small forward in the league; his body is unstoppable! At the same time, he has the speed and skills of a guard. Michael has been able to play so effortlessly thanks in no small part to Grant Hill's help." Dr. J spared no effort in praising Hill.
"Larry, what do you think?"
"I have to admit, the Hornets' tactics are incredibly targeted. The two teams are closely matched on paper, and in a straight-up matchup, I'd even say the Lakers have