Chapter 87: Using Wade’s Signature “Euro Step” Against Him

Getting scored on by a young player right in front of him didn't sit well with Wade. Despite Tang Lei's recent surge to prominence, snagging the All-Star MVP title and the top vote, Wade, as a veteran superstar, held onto his pride. To him, there was only one way forward—reclaim the court, and he was determined to do it himself.

The Heat were on offense, and Wade took control of the ball, his gaze unwavering as he dribbled past midcourt. Tang Lei saw Wade's intent, moving up to guard him directly, determined to go head-to-head.

Tang Lei grinned, throwing Wade's words back at him, "What you told me just now? Same to you—I'm not letting you get by that easily this time!"

"Oh, really? Then I'll tell you now," Wade responded with a slight smile. "I'm going left."

The crowd's excitement grew, cheering wildly as the matchup between the seasoned star and the rising talent set the stage for a fiery battle. Despite Tang Lei's achievements, many American fans still doubted whether he had the physicality and grit to truly compete, seeing his slender frame as lacking in toughness.

Wade took a quick step to the right as if to drive, but Tang Lei stood firm—he remembered Wade's words about going left, sensing that the move to the right was just a bluff.

As expected, Wade suddenly shifted, making a strong move to his left and accelerating with explosive speed. Tang Lei kept up, skillfully mirroring Wade's movement without giving him an easy path.

This time, instead of using his iconic Euro step, Wade executed a quick stop, extending his arm as if to go for a layup. Tang Lei instinctively leaned in to defend, but at that moment, Wade swiftly pulled the ball back, spun, and rose up for a shot, aiming to finish the play with a floater.

Just as Wade prepared to release the ball, a shadow loomed—Tang Lei was there, springing up to block the shot. Startled, Wade adjusted in mid-air but found his options limited and had to quickly pass to the right. Tang Lei's fingertips barely grazed the ball, tipping it just enough for Iguodala to grab it, and the Warriors immediately launched a fast break. Iguodala connected with Thompson, who scored with ease, putting the Warriors ahead 24-19. Since Tang Lei's entry, he'd been involved in every point the Warriors had scored.

"Quick reflexes there," Wade commented, a glint of respect in his eyes.

"Not bad," Tang Lei replied with a smile.

On the next possession, Wade came back determined, going at Tang Lei one more time. This attempt was a bit forced, but after bouncing around the rim, the ball dropped in, allowing Wade to reclaim a point.

Back on offense, Tang Lei faced Wade once more. For Tang Lei, challenging a legend face-to-face—especially scoring in front of him—was an exhilarating feat. Although Wade was no longer at his peak, the thrill of the duel made Tang Lei's blood run hot.

This time, Tang Lei decided to borrow a page from Wade's own playbook—his signature "Euro Step."

The crowd held its breath, watching every move. With a quick feint, Tang Lei shifted his stance and, right in front of Wade, executed the smooth, calculated footwork of a textbook Euro step. His moves were fluid and precise, finishing with an effortless layup that sailed into the hoop.

Tang Lei's audacious use of Wade's iconic move to score left the arena in stunned silence. Even the Heat's fans seemed momentarily taken aback, processing what they had just witnessed.

Wade paused for a second, then shook his head with a wry smile, silently admiring this young player's boldness and skill.

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