Chapter 18: One Appointment
"It's an honor to represent our country, and the Chinese men's basketball team needs me. Honestly, this isn't just my responsibility," Yao Ming finally admitted, after a long moment of hesitation.
"Yao, you've only been in the NBA for four years, yet you've already suffered injuries in five or six places, right? Especially that left ankle from last season. You know as well as I do that athletes live in fear of high-intensity games ruining their careers," Andrew replied, his voice firm yet concerned.
Yao Ming nodded, clearly aware of the gravity of his situation.
"As for the national team, it's complicated. You are irreplaceable on the Chinese squad. Even if you skip some games, they'll still count on you," Andrew continued, gauging Yao's reaction.
Yao remained silent, but his thoughtful expression indicated he understood what Andrew was saying.
Andrew was acutely aware of the stakes. He recalled how Yao played only 48 games during the 2006-07 season due to a fractured tibia in his left leg. Had Yao stayed healthy, the Rockets would have undoubtedly ranked among the top three teams in the Western Conference. Now, with the additions of Millsap and Barria, everything hinged on Yao's health.
"How about we strike a deal?" Andrew proposed, locking eyes with Yao.
"A deal?" Yao asked, curiosity etched on his face.
"My family's medical background has given me access to some unique remedies. I can help you fully recover your left ankle," Andrew offered, his confidence radiating. "But in return, you must promise not to participate in any competitions other than world-class events like the World Championships or the Olympics. How does that sound?"
The prospect of complete recovery made Yao's determination waver. As a towering player, the risk of ankle injuries loomed large. If Andrew's claim was genuine, he could reconsider his participation in lesser games.
"And honestly, if you keep playing in Asian-level competitions, do you think that's good for the growth of Chinese basketball?" Andrew added, hitting the nail on the head.
This struck a chord with Yao. As the face of Chinese basketball, his greatest wish was to see the sport thrive in his homeland. If he continued to shoulder the burden of every Asian game, what would happen when he eventually retired? The collapse of Chinese men's basketball dominance was a frightening prospect.
"Alright, I agree. But the terms must be exactly as you said," Yao finally replied, though doubt lingered in his mind about Andrew's methods.
"Perfect!" Andrew beamed, his excitement infectious. He reached into his pocket and produced a vial of herbal medicine he'd prepared earlier. With a flourish, he poured a dose into his palm and handed it to Yao.
Yao hesitated for a moment. This felt too casual, almost reckless.
"Don't worry; it's not poisonous. I still need to work for the Rockets," Andrew quipped, though he felt a tinge of unease.
Yao took the pill, swallowing it with water as he watched Andrew closely. Almost immediately, a warm sensation surged through his left ankle. For the first time in ages, the persistent soreness vanished, replaced by a newfound lightness.
Ecstatic, he jumped off the bed and took a few strides around the room. His heart raced as he realized it was true—he felt like himself again.
"Seems effective! Remember our agreement," Andrew grinned, pride evident in his eyes.
Yao nodded enthusiastically, the nagging doubts about Andrew's methods pushed aside by the overwhelming sense of relief. What mattered most was his health.
After leaving Yao Ming's home, Andrew wandered through the city, nostalgia washing over him as he noted how everything from his previous life seemed to have evaporated. It was as if his former identity no longer mattered in this world.
Spending a month in China proved fruitful. As the stocks he'd invested in surged more than twentyfold, his initial capital of $200,000 skyrocketed to $5 million. He quickly sold half, turning $2.5 million into significant shares in Alibaba, securing his status as a minority shareholder at a pivotal moment in the company's rise.
With business matters settled, Andrew boarded a flight back to the United States, eager to immerse himself in the upcoming NBA preseason. The coaching staff of all teams was already buzzing with activity, and Andrew headed to the Toyota Center, curious to see the preparations unfold.
To his surprise, a cacophony of sound greeted him as he entered the training hall. He followed the noise to find Hayes, Millsap, Novak, and Barria drenched in sweat and hard at work.
"Coach!" Millsap exclaimed, breaking into a wide grin upon seeing Andrew.
The other players turned, excitement lighting their faces.
"What brings you to the training hall so early?" Hayes asked, panting slightly.
"Coach, we've been putting in the work for over a month now, and I feel like I've improved significantly!" Millsap said, his enthusiasm palpable.
"My defense has leveled up too, coach," Novak chimed in, brimming with pride.
Andrew raised an eyebrow, surprised by their commitment. "You've been training without my guidance?"
"It was Jose's idea, but I wanted to show you we're serious about meeting your expectations," Millsap explained.
Jose's influence, Andrew thought, pleased to see the team taking initiative. It seemed his previous words had made a lasting impact.
Nodding, Andrew felt a surge of optimism. With a healthy Yao Ming and this level of dedication, the Rockets were poised to be far stronger than the most formidable version he remembered.