Chapter 25: "Big Mouth" Buckley

The focus of the reporters shifted from Van Gundy to Andrew.

"Andrew, how did you orchestrate this transformation?" a reporter inquired, his curiosity piqued.

Andrew smiled warmly, but there was no trace of arrogance in his demeanor. "It's not just me; it's all of us, including Coach Jeff. This change is a result of our entire coaching staff's efforts and the players' hard work."

As the assistant coach, Andrew understood that humility would bolster the team's unity. Van Gundy's previously rigid expression softened at Andrew's words. It wouldn't do for a head coach to be overshadowed by his assistant, after all.

Dawson nodded in approval; capable and unselfish employees like Andrew were prized by management.

"Andrew, before the game, Kenyon Martin made a statement suggesting that people of the yellow race don't belong in this league. What are your thoughts on that?" another reporter chimed in, the tension in the air palpable.

The atmosphere in the press conference grew thick with anticipation.

Dawson opened his mouth to interject, but Andrew cut in with a lighthearted smile. "If he truly said that, perhaps he should consider an early retirement."

The room fell silent for a moment, then erupted with laughter, confusion mingling with amusement. Dawson couldn't help but chuckle, looking at Andrew with newfound respect. 

"After all, only the league president can make such judgments. If he retires now, maybe he can get a head start on his next career in league management after a decade in the game," Andrew added with a wink.

The reporters were taken by his charisma, laughter ringing out again. 

Shortly after the press conference, NBA President Stern, upon hearing of the Martin incident, decided to suspend him for a game and imposed a hefty fine of $35,000. While racial discrimination was a sad reality in America, speaking openly about it in front of reporters was a surefire way to invite trouble.

Andrew's ability to navigate the situation had not only showcased his talents but also eased the tension within the team.

In the world of competitive sports, winning was the most effective remedy for conflict, provided you had the skill to achieve it.

After triumphing over formidable opponents like the Nuggets, the Rockets found themselves facing a favorable schedule. The struggling New York Knicks and the young but inexperienced Trail Blazers were next on the list, followed by a matchup with the Boston Celtics.

Taking advantage of their opponents' weaknesses, the Rockets honed their skills in these matches, trying new tactics and developing their game in real time. Andrew continued to refine the team's strategy, slowly crafting a style that suited the Rockets' unique lineup.

The Rockets soon found themselves on a four-game winning streak, a feat that marked Andrew's first significant achievement with the team.

This was no ordinary streak; the Rockets were not just winning—they were dominating. After these four games, while their defense remained solid as always, their offense blossomed into something breathtaking. They averaged 102 points per game over those four contests, the highest in the league.

Such an incredible turnaround caught the attention of TNT's sports program, where host Barkley and analyst Kenny Smith discussed the surprising developments.

"Kenny, I've got a riddle for you," Barkley declared, his voice booming. "A team that was predicted to finish sixth from the bottom at the start of the season now holds the best record in the league. Guess who they are?"

Smith rolled his eyes, "Is it even a question? You can just look at the standings."

Barkley pressed, "Which team?"

"The Houston Rockets," Smith replied, glancing at the rankings.

"Exactly! The Houston Rockets! It's unbelievable!" Barkley exclaimed, his excitement palpable.

"But let me remind you, I said that as long as Yao Ming and McGrady stay healthy and find their rhythm, they could dominate the league!" Barkley gestured emphatically, his passion spilling over.

"You said? I don't remember that," Smith replied with a playful grin.

"Who said what is irrelevant. The key takeaway is that the Rockets have found their winning formula. They average 102 points per game—leading the league—but they've also kept opponents to an average of only 89.2 points, second only to the Spurs and Pistons. So, tell me, is that significant or what?" Barkley spoke with enthusiasm, leaving Smith chuckling.

"But..." Barkley suddenly pivoted, "a challenge looms ahead. Next Monday, they'll face the Miami Heat—the reigning champions in a highly anticipated Yao Sha showdown."

"Yes, the Heat just clinched their first-ever championship last year with Shaquille O'Neal and Dwyane Wade. They're not going to be an easy matchup," Smith agreed, nodding solemnly.

"Who do you think will come out on top?" Barkley lowered his voice, leaning in.

"Here we go again..." Smith sighed, half-amused.

"How about we place a wager?" Barkley proposed, sensing Smith's reluctance.

"You think the Rockets will win? Have you forgotten that unfortunate donkey incident?" Smith quipped with a laugh.

"Oh no! Kenny, don't bring that up!" Barkley protested, shaking his head.

"What are we betting on?" Smith inquired.

"Let's wager on a dunk," Barkley suggested, his eyes narrowing mischievously.

"A dunk?" Smith raised an eyebrow, intrigued.

"Yes, the loser has to wear the same underwear set designed by Adriana Lima at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show and then dunk live on air," Barkley stated seriously, his eyes glinting with mischief.

"What?!" Smith exclaimed, his expression a mix of shock and amusement.

"Hey, it's live television! Are you in or out?" Barkley teased, relishing the idea.

"You're on!" Smith retorted, a mix of excitement and hesitation evident in his voice.

"So, you pick first, and I'll take the other side. That way, at least one of us will have to perform," Barkley said, his enthusiasm infectious.

After a moment of thought, Smith grinned, "Charles, this is on you."

"Absolutely!" Barkley nodded.

"While I hope the Rockets succeed, I believe the Heat will take this one. The Rockets have had an impressive run, but three of their last four opponents were weak. The only tough team, the Nuggets, caught them by surprise. The Heat may have started slow, but the core of their championship team remains intact, so I'm betting on them."

Smith's analysis was sound; a sturdy camel is still bigger than a horse. The Heat were no underdogs, boasting last season's championship roster.

"Alright, you choose reason, and I'll go with luck. I'm backing the Rockets!" Barkley said, a playful smirk on his face.

Once the TNT segment aired, it sparked a media frenzy. The image of Barkley or Smith wearing Victoria's Secret underwear and attempting to dunk live became the talk of the league.

The matchup between the Heat and the Rockets quickly turned into the most anticipated game of the season, much to the delight of Barkley and TNT, who thrived on the attention.