Wang Chong Sets a "Small Goal" for the New Season

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Time flew by, and nearly a month had passed since Wang Chong arrived in Chicago and began training with the Bulls. During this time, he made weekly trips to Los Angeles—ostensibly to discuss investment matters with the producers of Transformers, but mainly to spend time with Jessica Alba. Despite the distance and their busy schedules—Wang Chong with basketball, Jessica with her acting career—their time apart only seemed to strengthen their bond.

Though casting for Transformers hadn't yet begun, Wang Chong, as an investor, had already introduced Jessica to director Michael Bay. Upon meeting her, Bay was immediately struck by her resemblance to his vision of the film's lead heroine, and hinted that she would be perfect for the role. If all went well, Jessica might soon have one of her most iconic moments—lifting the hood of a car in the first Transformers movie.

Now, in mid-September, the NBA season was fast approaching, and the Bulls were gathering for team photos. Wang Chong, donning the red No. 24 jersey, made a bold appearance. The number had a special significance—it had once been worn by Othella Harrington, a lesser-known forward from the 1996 draft class. Harrington, recognizing Wang Chong's stature, willingly gave up the jersey, understanding that the Bulls management would have made that decision to accommodate their new star anyway.

For Bulls fans, the number 24 inevitably drew comparisons to Michael Jordan's legendary No. 23. Wang Chong had worn the No. 24 in Los Angeles, explaining at the time that it represented the 24 seconds of the shot clock, a reminder to cherish every moment on the court. But now, with Wang Chong wearing the number in Chicago, the media was abuzz with talk of whether he could surpass Jordan.

Wang Chong himself wasn't obsessed with the number—he had chosen it on a whim when he joined the Lakers. Yet, it was amusing to him to think about whether Kobe Bryant would still switch to No. 24, as planned, in the upcoming season. If so, the media would no doubt stir up a frenzy comparing the two stars.

The Bulls' team photo day went smoothly, with the players in high spirits. However, head coach Scott Skiles seemed less enthusiastic. Skiles had led the Bulls to the playoffs the previous season, their first appearance since Jordan's second retirement, and he had hoped to build on that success. However, the arrival of Wang Chong had come at the cost of several key players, leaving the team's roster in disarray. Skiles wasn't sure whether this new lineup could even make the playoffs, let alone go further.

Soon enough, it was time for media day, and the spotlight was on Wang Chong. Reporters wasted no time firing questions at him. One journalist asked about Wang Chong's feelings after joining the Bulls. "I feel great. The Bulls are a fantastic organization, and I'm honored to be part of this team," he replied.

However, the questions soon took a more provocative turn. "Did you leave the Lakers because of a conflict with Kobe Bryant over ball distribution?" another reporter asked, fishing for controversy. Wang Chong, having grown savvy to such tactics, smiled politely and said, "I'm a Bulls player now. Let's focus on the future, not the past."

The real test came when a reporter asked about expectations for the upcoming season. "What do you think of the Bulls' chances with the current roster? And what are your personal goals for the season?"

Coach Skiles, sitting nearby, held his breath. He feared Wang Chong might make bold statements that would come back to haunt them. But Wang Chong, always composed, responded with confidence: "I think we've got a great team. There's a good balance between experienced veterans and young, talented players. I believe we can develop strong chemistry and put on great performances for the Chicago fans."

He paused before continuing, "As for expectations, I believe we should aim for at least 50 wins in the regular season and make it to the Eastern Conference Finals."

Skiles blinked in surprise. Fifty wins? The Eastern Conference Finals? Was Wang Chong aiming too high?

Wang Chong wasn't done. "Personally, I'd like to set a small goal for myself this season: to be selected to the All-NBA First Team and to compete for the scoring title."

A stunned silence followed.

Coach Skiles stared at Wang Chong in disbelief. Those were massive ambitions—50 wins in a competitive Eastern Conference, a trip to the Eastern Conference Finals, and personal accolades that would place Wang Chong among the league's elite. Yet, here Wang Chong was, calmly laying it all out as if it were nothing.

The reporters, meanwhile, were thrilled. Wang Chong had just given them front-page material with his bold declarations. General Manager John Paxson was taken aback as well, though in a good way. While Skiles fretted about the pressure on the team, Paxson knew that Wang Chong's talent and star power alone were worth the gamble.

After all, the Bulls had waited years for a core player like Wang Chong. If Jordan had taken seven years to win his first championship, surely the Bulls could afford to give Wang Chong some time to develop the chemistry and support he needed.

But for now, the only thing that mattered was Wang Chong's performance on the court.

End of this chapter

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