Before the start of the third game, the desperate Dallas People could only pin their hopes on "Little General" Johnson.
Because last year, when they fell behind 0-2 in the first round of the playoffs, Johnson led the Mavericks to turn the series around against the Rockets.
Since there was a first comeback, why can't there be a second one?
So, before leading the team to Oakland, Johnson specially held a meeting within the team and earnestly told the Mavericks players, "Don't panic, we are far stronger than them!"
Johnson's reassurance had a positive effect.
This year, the Mavericks achieved 60 victories in the regular season, and no one would doubt that they are a team ready to compete for the championship.
Therefore, after the initial confusion and unease, under Johnson's comfort, the Mavericks players, who were somewhat overwhelmed by the Warriors in the first two games, quickly adjusted.
In this regard, Johnson was also grateful to the Rockets and Van Gundy in his heart.
After all, without last year's turnaround experience, how could the Mavericks players regain their composure and confidence so quickly?
It must be said that during this period, the Rockets indeed made many contributions to the NBA.
Especially in helping strong teams find their shortcomings and helping weak teams find confidence.
But...
Upon arriving in Oakland, the Mavericks players would soon discover the differences between the Warriors and the Rockets.
Two days later, on the night of the 29th.
When Nowitzki and his teammates stepped into Oracle Arena, looking at the rolling golden waves in the stands, this was definitely a scene they had never witnessed during their visit to Toyota Center last year.
On the other end of the court, the Warriors players looked fierce as if they were not about to play a basketball game, but were ready to go to war at any moment.
This was the Warriors' first home playoff game in twelve years.
Basketball has never been a favorite among Houstonians.
But for Oakland, backed by the Bay Area, they could unite the entire Bay Area's basketball-loving fans through the Warriors and Oracle Arena.
Moreover, in this life, they have the ace, Qin Yue, who can attract the support of countless Chinese fans.
Thump—!
Thump—!
Thump—!
Before the game, accompanied by Oracle Arena's "Overlord's Battle Song" thumping, the rolling golden waves were already quietly giving the visiting team unprecedented pressure.
If the Mavericks players could manage another comeback in such an environment, their playoff journey this year would surely be labeled as epic.
On the court, the main referee Tony Brothers walked to the center circle with the ball.
Known for his strict and always controversial officiating, "Teacher Tony" was famous even before Qin Yue's time-traveling in the NBA.
Fortunately, "Teacher Tony" usually only had issues with Qin Yue's good brother, Carmelo Anthony, in the NBA.
In fact, in the previous Warriors games officiated by "Teacher Tony", Qin Yue even had a few advantages.
Undoubtedly.
"Teacher Tony" in the NBA is like Oliver in the Premier League.
Yes, after many games, Qin Yue confirmed.
"Teacher Tony" probably doesn't have an issue with his refereeing skills, but he is likely just "blind".
Tonight, it's hard to say which side this "blind man" will choose to help, but before the game started, Qin Yue specially reminded his teammates.
"Pay attention to your actions, observe his refereeing standard first, then decide whether to increase the intensity."
Upon hearing this, the Warriors players instantly got the hint.
Qin Yue didn't want "Teacher Tony's" poor performance to ruin the Warriors' first home playoff appearance in twelve years.
So, since they couldn't control the referee...
The Warriors players naturally could only control their defensive moves during the game.
In the center, Brown once again showcased his talent during the jump ball, successfully winning possession for the Warriors.
To avoid being caught by the always strict "Teacher Tony", Qin Yue set a textbook-standard pick for the original Mr. Big Beard after moving up to the high post.
But Daniels, who was unwary of "Teacher Tony"...
became the first unlucky guy of this game for pushing Qin Yue while navigating the pick.
On the court, when "Teacher Tony" blew the whistle, one of the "Dallas Double Uglies," Daniels, looked baffled.
Because in the NBA, the players navigating the pick would always have physical contact with the opposing screen setters.
In the previous two games, Daniels was used to the refereeing standard that allowed physical contact, so he simply couldn't understand why he was penalized for a minor touch with Qin Yue.
Furthermore, what Daniels couldn't understand the most was...
On the court, after seeing his surprisingly ugly face, "Teacher Tony" immediately gave him a T.
Come on!
Is being ugly a crime?
At this moment, a greatly shocked Daniels couldn't control his emotions until his teammates came to calm him down.
And then...
He was ejected for loud arguing.
Yes, you read that correctly, Marquis Daniels, this uniquely featured Dallas Mavericks player, successfully made NBA playoff history tonight.
In just thirteen seconds after the start, he was ejected by the main referee Tony Brothers for receiving two technical fouls.
However, if you think "Teacher Tony" chose to help the Warriors tonight...
Then you are greatly mistaken.
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