The Meaning Behind the Sneakers, the Famous Shark-Slaying Drama!

"Lin, why don't you switch to a better pair of sneakers? With your current worth, you should be wearing something more high-end."

As the players on both sides began their warm-up, Kidd looked at Lin Tianhui with surprise.

At this moment, Lin was wearing a pair of the most basic basketball shoes. Although they were adequate for the game, given his current status, he could definitely opt for something better.

"This pair of basketball shoes was bought with money saved by my grandparents over a year. I promised them that I would wear them for my first NBA game because they represent not just a pair of shoes, but also their expectations for me."

Lin Tianhui didn't hesitate to share the reason behind his choice.

Kidd nodded thoughtfully. "With the support of your family, I believe you'll be unstoppable in this game."

Though his time with Lin Tianhui was brief, Kidd had developed a deep admiration for the young rookie. Besides his skills on the court, Kidd respected his character off it, finding him very much like Jordan, at least in terms of how they treat their elders.

After a short warm-up, the starting players from both teams took the court.

The Los Angeles Lakers, playing at home, sent out their starting five for the new season:

Eddie Jones + Nick Van Exel + Cedric Ceballos + Eldon Campbell + Shaquille O'Neal.

The Lakers' current lineup was formidable in scoring ability. Historically, they had multiple players averaging double figures each season, presenting a significant challenge for the Suns' defense.

The Suns' starters were:

Jason Kidd + Rex Chapman + Lin Tianhui + Charles Barkley + Joe Klein.

Compared to the Lakers, this lineup seemed to lack the same quality. But in basketball, paper strength is just one aspect—the real test comes on the court.

The game began!

"It's started, it's started! The game between the Lakers and the Suns has officially begun!"

In the studio of Tianchao TV, Sun Zhengping watched the screen with excitement. Although he had heard of Lin Tianhui before, he knew very little about him due to limited media coverage at the time. This game would be the best reflection of his abilities.

O'Neal and Klein went to the jump ball area. The referee tossed the ball high, and O'Neal won the first possession for the Lakers.

Eddie Jones advanced the ball, and the rest of the Lakers began their offensive play.

"Boom!"

After halftime, Jones didn't rush to attack but waited for O'Neal to settle before passing him the ball.

"Ugh!"

When O'Neal received the ball, the crowd erupted. The 'Big Shark,' who had been with the Magic last season, was now the Lakers' interior powerhouse, creating excitement for the fans.

Against Klein's defense, O'Neal was assertive.

He went for a powerful single move. The two players were nearly the same height, but O'Neal's physicality was unmatched.

After a straightforward confrontation, Klein was knocked aside.

"Boom!"

With no defenders in his way, O'Neal had a direct, forceful dunk. His large hands shook the basket as if protesting his roughness.

2:0!

O'Neal scored the Lakers' first points!

In the general manager's office, Jerry West smiled.

"Damn, 120 million over 7 years, it was definitely worth it!"

The Lakers hadn't had such an easy offense in a long time.

As the Suns took their turn on offense, Kidd controlled the pace and quickly advanced to the frontcourt.

Against a powerful center like O'Neal, a fast pace was more effective. Before the Lakers' defense could set, Kidd shot the ball.

With a beautiful no-look pass, Kidd found Barkley, who was positioned at the basket.

"Boom!"

Barkley used his imposing physique to push Campbell out of the way and score.

2:2!

Both teams succeeded in their initial attacks.

"As soon as the two sides began, they focused heavily on inside attacks. With powerful insiders like Shaquille O'Neal and Barkley, it's the most logical choice. Who would be foolish enough to pass the ball outside?"

"Unfortunately, O'Neal and Barkley didn't face each other directly, which made the game less exciting. But as the game progresses, I'm sure they'll come face to face!"

The commentator was also excited. Both teams had introduced new lineups for the season, and the game promised to be intense.

The Lakers attacked again, with the ball still in O'Neal's hands.

Klein struggled against the 'Big Shark,' who dominated the post.

In their battle, O'Neal completely blocked Klein, making it impossible to see the other's position. This unequal matchup could only end one way.

O'Neal scored again, showcasing his inside dominance.

However, Kidd and Lin Tianhui directed a well-executed fast break.

Kidd, grabbing the ball in the backcourt, made a long pass to the speeding Lin Tianhui.

Lin caught the ball and went straight up for a dunk.

But O'Neal leapt to challenge him.

Despite his size, O'Neal's responsiveness was impressive.

"Ugh!"

The crowd was thrilled to see the two players face off in mid-air. A block seemed imminent.

But Lin Tianhui had no intention of conceding.

With a slight twist of his wrist, he managed to redirect the ball.

"Lin still shows hesitation, but can you blame him? Facing a giant like O'Neal, it's understandable!"

"His handling of the ball was commendable; at least he wasn't blocked by O'Neal!"

Although the attempt didn't result in a score, the commentators appreciated Lin Tianhui's ability to handle the situation.

Before their comments could fully settle, another player dashed towards the basket.

"Boom!"

An unguarded Barkley executed a powerful dunk!

"This...…"

"It's a pass, it's a pass! Tianhui's play was a deliberate pass!"

In the Tianchao Studio, Zhang Weiping stood up excitedly.

Earlier, he, like everyone else, thought Lin Tianhui's play was a mistake. However, when Barkley soared for the dunk, Zhang realized the pass was intentional.

Lin Tianhui had fooled everyone with his calculated move.

"Hahaha, this play was incredible!"

Sun Zhengping was also thrilled. Despite Lin Tianhui's background, his ability to remain mistake-free under O'Neal's defense was remarkable.

"Wow!"

"What just happened? Was that a pass?"

"God, my heart can't take such excitement!"

The U.S. commentator was equally astonished, finding the play extraordinary.