NBA : Formidable Center

**

As a seasoned sports media professional, Zhong Yuan had always maintained close attention to the basketball world.

Initially, he thought that attending an NCAA regional final in New York would be a dull affair compared to his years of watching NBA-level games. The real highlight of this trip, he assumed, would be the business negotiations following the game.

However, upon arriving at the arena and witnessing the matchup between Syracuse Orange and the North Carolina Wolfpack, he realized he had underestimated the event.

This regional final not only showcased players of exceptional skill but also created an atmosphere nearly identical to an NBA playoff game. The cheers from the Wolfpack's small contingent of fans during the second half were almost deafening, shaking him to his core.

From the start, Zhong Yuan's focus was on Wang Song, the rising star and prospective spokesperson whose performance directly impacted New Fox Sports' business and exposure. Watching the game live was far more impactful than any highlight reel or statistical report.

Wang Song's consistently brilliant plays reignited a spark of youthful passion in Zhong Yuan, a man in his mid-thirties. From his defense and offense to his emphatic blocks and dunks, as well as his steady and mature style of play, every moment left a profound impression.

"This is pure domination! Wang Song doesn't even seem like he belongs in this league. He's clearly destined for something much bigger," Zhong Yuan marveled. "We need to act quickly. I must inform the boss about the situation here and prepare him to increase the budget. Trying to sign him with lowball offers won't work—this is the future of Chinese basketball!"

Seizing a rare moment of quiet in the raucous arena, he pulled out his Nokia 7650 to make an international call.

---

The scoreboard made the situation clear.

In the second half, with defensive matchups adjusted, Wang Song had completely shut down Carmelo Anthony. The Syracuse star, who had dazzled in the first half, now struggled to find his rhythm.

Despite repeated attempts, Anthony couldn't penetrate Wang Song's defense. The latter's range, defensive awareness, and footwork neutralized Anthony's attacks.

Within five minutes of the second half, Anthony had attempted five shots but scored only two points—a lucky bank shot after escaping Wang Song's defense with a screen. Syracuse's offense faltered as their star's efficiency plummeted.

Jim Boeheim, the head coach of Syracuse, had no choice but to call the first timeout of the half.

---

On the sidelines, Boeheim angrily jabbed his marker at the whiteboard, unable to blame anyone but himself. Giving Anthony the ball for isolation plays was his strategy, and the other players had no authority to challenge it.

Blaming Anthony was also out of the question. Without him, Syracuse—a team that historically struggled to reach the Eastern Championship—wouldn't have made it this far. Even if they lost today, their appearance in the regional finals was already a milestone for the program.

But the poor results and the mounting pressure of the deficit weighed heavily on Boeheim.

If he had to pinpoint a single reason for Syracuse's struggles, it would be the 9th player on the North Carolina Wolfpack—Wang Song.

"That Asian kid is a monster," Boeheim muttered.

---

Meanwhile, the Wolfpack coaching staff couldn't help but smile.

The scoreboard displayed 49-41. Assistant coach Jim had to suppress his grin as he pinched his arm to maintain composure.

"Never show excitement prematurely in front of young players," he reminded himself.

While the coaching staff stayed serious, the players relaxed visibly, their expressions reflecting their growing confidence. Coach Herb Sendek, for once, didn't scold them but simply reminded them to stay focused and maintain the momentum.

When the timeout ended, both teams returned to the court with some adjustments.

Syracuse brought Hakim Warrick back into the game to bolster their offense. Boeheim's intentions were clear: to apply pressure and cut the deficit quickly.

However, Anthony's defensive shortcomings began to show at the worst possible time. Having played nearly the entire first half, he lacked the energy to contribute effectively on both ends of the court. Prioritizing his scoring stats, Anthony eased up on defense, leaving gaps for North Carolina to exploit.

While Warrick's return temporarily lifted Syracuse's offense, Anthony's lapses on defense opened holes that the Wolfpack mercilessly exploited.

The game turned into an offensive shootout. But with a lead in hand and Wang Song dominating his matchup against Warrick, the Wolfpack held firm, refusing to relinquish their advantage.

---

The clock ticked down, and Syracuse's deficit remained as the final buzzer sounded.

**Final Score:** North Carolina Wolfpack 78, Syracuse Orange 71.

The Wolfpack had pulled off a narrow but crucial victory against one of the championship favorites.

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*(End of Chapter)*