"I didn't expect that this fast-break combo between Alex Mo and Allen Iverson would become their signature play!"
"That's the beauty of Alex and Allen—always unpredictable and exciting!"
United States, Rose Garden Arena.
The TNT announcers watched as Alex Mo slammed down another fast-break dunk and marveled at the Lakers' signature play.
"Mo's fast-break dunk and Allen's pinpoint long pass have become a staple of every Lakers game!"
Trail Blazers Respond
The Blazers knew they had to answer quickly.
Kenny Anderson, the 6'0" point guard, played it smart this time.
Instead of attacking directly, he passed the ball to Rasheed Wallace at mid-range.
Wallace, ever confident, sized up Alex Mo, then rose for his trademark straight-arm jumper—and nailed it.
2–2. Tie game.
Iverson Strikes Again
The Lakers wasted no time.
Iverson blew past Anderson with a lightning-quick crossover, drove into the paint, and floated a layup over Sabonis for two more points.
"This duo isn't just about Mo—Iverson's slashing is a huge part of the show!"
In the CCTV studio, veteran commentator Zhang Wenli was brimming with energy.
"Iverson's breakthrough is still unstoppable! The Blazers' defense can't do anything about it!"
His partner, Sun Zhengping, could barely get a word in.
CCTV had swapped out its usual commentary team, worried that Director Zhang might run out of steam calling back-to-back games.
But to everyone's surprise, Zhang was full of life—talking at a pace that could rival Iverson's speed on the court.
Sabonis Flexes His Muscle
The Blazers responded with Sabonis demanding the ball in the low post.
He backed down Elden Campbell, scored, and drew a foul.
It was clear from Sabonis's body language—he was here to dominate.
The TNT commentators noticed his unusually fierce energy.
"Sabonis hasn't played with this much fire in a long time!"
Campbell looked helpless, pleading with the referee, but it was no use.
Sabonis calmly sank the free throw.
Iverson Keeps Pushing
On the next possession, Iverson once again tore through the Blazers' defense.
Sabonis was half a step too slow, and Iverson slipped past him for another easy layup.
"Allen Iverson is on fire today! Back-to-back games? These young guys aren't feeling it at all!"
But on the Blazers' end, Rasheed Wallace wasn't backing down.
He posted up against Alex Mo, trying to bully his way to the basket.
Big mistake.
Alex held his ground and forced Wallace into a bad shot.
Still, the Blazers had Sabonis.
As Alex rotated to help on Wallace, Sabonis muscled his way into the paint, grabbed a pass, and scored another easy basket.
Blazers' Strategy: Attack Campbell
It became clear that the Blazers were focusing their attack on Elden Campbell.
Sabonis was overpowering him inside, while Wallace attacked him from the perimeter.
Every time Alex Mo switched to help, the ball went back to the unguarded man.
Campbell was struggling on both speed and strength.
"The Blazers' plan is obvious—target Campbell, wear him out, and force him into foul trouble."
And it was working.
Halftime: Lakers Lead, but Trouble Brews
At halftime, the Lakers led 50–44, but it wasn't all good news.
Campbell already had four fouls.
The TNT commentators noted the obvious problem:
"If Campbell fouls out, the Lakers' inside defense will collapse. Alex Mo can't defend both Sabonis and Wallace by himself."
In the Blazers' locker room, Rasheed Wallace confidently declared:
"The kid's good, but we've got him. Once Campbell fouls out, Mo will have to fight us 2-on-1."
Coach P.J. Carlesimo nodded.
"Keep attacking Campbell. Once he's gone, Mo will wear himself out."
Lakers' Halftime Dilemma
Back in the Lakers' locker room, Campbell looked frustrated.
"Coach, they're targeting me on purpose! I can't avoid these fouls!"
Del Harris sighed.
He knew Campbell was struggling, but without him, Alex Mo would be on his own in the paint.
Enter Big Ben
Suddenly, Alex spoke up.
"Coach, let Ben Wallace take over for Campbell."
Del Harris raised an eyebrow.
"Ben's strong, quick, and can hold off Sabonis just long enough for me to rotate back and help."
Big Ben, who had been itching for a chance, jumped in:
"Coach! Let me do it! I won't let you down!"
Del Harris hesitated.
"Ben… but your height…"
"Height's not an issue," Alex assured him. "Ben's strength and speed will make up for it. He just needs to slow them down for a second. I'll handle the rest."
Big Ben's Chance
"Alright, Ben. You're starting the second half with Alex."
Big Ben's eyes lit up.
"Thank you, Coach! I won't let you down!"
He turned to Alex, full of determination:
"Alex, I've got this. That Rasheed Wallace guy won't get past me!"
Then, with a wicked grin, he added:
"And if he keeps running his mouth, I'll shut him up with one punch!"
"…Wait, what?"
Alex stared at him, speechless.
Big Ben just flexed his muscles, ready for war.