The first quarter saw both teams locked in a fierce battle.
After a timeout, the Supersonics adjusted their offensive and defensive strategies, beginning to front and double-team Gan Guoyang on defense.
They would front him when he didn't have the ball, and start a decisive double-team when he did.
When Gan Guoyang chose to pass the ball, the Supersonics would engage in high-speed defensive rotation.
The key players executing the double-teaming and rotation were none other than McDaniel, who had abundant energy and a highly strategic approach to help defense.
As soon as they succeeded on defense, the Supersonics would immediately launch a fast break—not like the one Gus Williams used to lead, but a full-team fast break. Any player who got the ball could push forward, and anyone could be the spearhead attacking the basket.
