::: A Legend Is Born ::: (NBA Live 06)

[Fresh8]

Chapter Index

Prologue
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten
Chapter Eleven
Chapter Twelve
Chapter Thirteen
Chapter Fourteen
Chapter Fifteen

---

Coming Up on A Legend Is Born...

Before the Wolves head into the month of March, the story will rewind a little bit back to the trade deadline where something big took place...

What was it? Wait and see!

Watch out for Flo Ruff, Mark Moore and a new NLSC character in Alex 'Cwebbiverson' Buckley!

[Fresh8]

February Top 5 Games

5. Feb 24, Golden State at Seattle



The Warriors edged closer to their Pacific rival, Los Angeles Lakers, whilst staying just a little bit ahead of the Phoenix Suns and Sacramento Kings in what is shaping up to be a heated race for a playoff spot. At the expense of the struggling Supersonics, Jason Richardson poured in a season high 44 points en route to a 24 point thrashing of last season’s Norhtwest Division champions.

The Sonics look like they have dropped out of post season contention and despite a combined 74 points from Radmanovic, Lewis and Allen, which would usually beat any other team, the Warriors just played a lot better.

4. Feb 15, Memphis at Houston



Yao Ming led his team with 31 points and received ample support from both Juwan Howard and Tracy MacGrady as they crippled the playoff chances for their Division rival Memphis. Howard’s 23 and 15 and MacGrady’s 24 and 16 along with Rafer Alston’s 16 points and 9 assists sent shockwaves throughout the NBA. As an Eastern Conference scout said, “The Rockets look like they will be a hard test to get past in the playoffs. I think they are true playoff contenders!”

The Memphis Grizzlies collapsed under the defensive pressure exerted onto them by the Rockets as Mike Miller top scored with 16 but on a dismal 6 for 18 display. His team mates didn’t fare any better as Yao and Juwan Howard helped to alter many shot attempts.

3. Feb 25, Denver at Atlanta



The Atlanta Hawks continue with their late push for a place in the NBA playoffs and their latest victim were the Denver Nuggets, who up until last month looked like an unstoppable force. Joe Johnson held Carmelo Anthony in check as rookie Marvin Williams exploded by scoring 22 points off the pine. He had 16 in the decisive final quarter as the underdog Hawks surprised the top-lofty Denver Nuggets.

Voshon Lenard’s 29 wasn’t enough to get his team past the spirited Hawks as Atlanta looks like it has a great chance of making the playoffs again in the East.

2. Feb 5, LA Lakers at San Antonio



Kobe Bryant scored 52 points in an overtime thriller against the San Antonio Spurs. The defending NBA champions were lucky to escape a clutch three pointer Bryant at the end of regulation thanks to Nick Van Exel’s only basket of the night tying the game to force overtime.

Kobe didn’t need to do too much work as he started the extra session by throwing down an emphatic dunk on the fast break then letting Chris Mihm do the rest of the work. The big man scored the Lakers’ other 7 points in overtime as the Spurs slowed to a grinding halt and lost the game. Tim Duncan dominated Kwame Brown en route to 33 ponts while Tony Parker continually burned the Laker defence as he himself put up 32. However, the Lakers countered that with Mihm’s 22 points, Parker’s 16 and 9 assists and Lamar Odom’s near triple double of 18, 10 and 7.

1. Feb 7, Milwaukee at New Orleans



It was basically a battle of two of the worst teams in the league for this season and the Bucks and Hornets didn’t disappoint with the game going right down to the wire. Michael Redd paced the Bucks with 20 points and Bobby Simmons chipped in 15 while the whole starting line up scored in double figures for the Hornets.

The Bucks took a 12 point lead entering the fourth quarter before the Hornets, already out of the playoff race, showed the Bucks how to win a game. The Hornets doubled their opposition in scoring for the final period and got back into it. With just 2 ticks of the clock remaining, J R Smith made a surprising trey to win the game. As the buzzer sounded, the Hornets celebrated as if they had won the championship. At least they are in the lead for that number 1 draft pick!

[Mark.]

Man those sound like some sweet games, I enjoy reading those little game recaps you have, sound liek they are straight off NBA.com or something

[Fresh8]

Thanks Mark! The comments are much appreciated!

[The X]

good to see you're still going strong....hope your uni exams went well & hope your bball team has won some games

[kibaxx7]

Yep man, the recaps look sweet Nice!

[Fresh8]

good to see you're still going strong....hope your uni exams went well & hope your bball team has won some games

- Uni went ok, looking to do better next semester. I'm aiming for straight 7s... its the nerd within! How bout ur results?

And bball... oh man.. lost a few close ones... including our last game before the break... winning by 4 with 1 min left and then lost by 2... inexperience i tell u... I passed the ball after holding onto it for a while and the dude who got ther ball lost it straight away by driving in... he dribbled into a double team and did it on the next play... i was pretty pissed as was everyone else. The dude who turned the ball over twice thinks he's really good and yeh.. thinks he can beat anyone off the dribble.

Still, I had a mini slump for basically 5 or 6 games... lucky we had the 3 week break and didn't have games so i had time to just finish exams and relax a bit. Got back into ball yesterday and played really well scrimaging with dudes at Uni... met an american who i convinced to be our PG and our first game is tomoz night. I'm really hoping for a win. It's against our 'rival' team after all! Seeing that we know half the guys on it!

Wat bout the fighting Irish? You guys been playing recently? And yeh... i knew I'd seen your logo before! Do you know a St Patrick's college near u by any chance?

Yep man, the recaps look sweet Nice!

- Thanks lots man!

[Fresh8]

Oh yeh, after reading ur lil synopsis in ur sig, sounds like ur playing well. Hope it translates to more wins for u guys soon!

And yeah, I've finally got my shooting touch back- evidence was me making 7 shots in a row in a scrimmage to bring my team from 2-9 down back up to 9-10 but we eventually lost the game haha caus eit was match point and i passed up the shot to give my teammate a shot which he missed. Funny though, after the game a tall dude challeneged me to one-on-one. I was quite humbled seeing he was older than me, maybe 23-24...

Anyways... one thing i wanted to ask people: what is it when u go and do any physical activity (ie. play sport) and u wanna play but everytime you go to kick the ball or shoot a basketball or play tennis/cricket watever, u feel like shit and feel real unco? I always wanna know wat that is cause thats how i felt for 2 months... at least its gone now!

[pHLo]

Coming Up on A Legend Is Born...


Watch out for Flo Ruff, Mark Moore and a new NLSC character in Alex 'Cwebbiverson' Buckley!

it's RUF, beeyatch

[Fresh8]

I always write Ruf but then think that one 'f' is not enough... haha

[The X]

good to see you're still going strong....hope your uni exams went well & hope your bball team has won some games

- Uni went ok, looking to do better next semester. I'm aiming for straight 7s... its the nerd within! How bout ur results?

And bball... oh man.. lost a few close ones... including our last game before the break... winning by 4 with 1 min left and then lost by 2... inexperience i tell u... I passed the ball after holding onto it for a while and the dude who got ther ball lost it straight away by driving in... he dribbled into a double team and did it on the next play... i was pretty pissed as was everyone else. The dude who turned the ball over twice thinks he's really good and yeh.. thinks he can beat anyone off the dribble.

Still, I had a mini slump for basically 5 or 6 games... lucky we had the 3 week break and didn't have games so i had time to just finish exams and relax a bit. Got back into ball yesterday and played really well scrimaging with dudes at Uni... met an american who i convinced to be our PG and our first game is tomoz night. I'm really hoping for a win. It's against our 'rival' team after all! Seeing that we know half the guys on it!

Wat bout the fighting Irish? You guys been playing recently? And yeh... i knew I'd seen your logo before! Do you know a St Patrick's college near u by any chance?

read under my sig for latest update

[Fresh8]

Chapter 16

In the conference hall of the Target Centre, the media mob was gathered together and waiting. As the flashes and clicks of cameras sounded in the room, the Minnesota Timberwolves staff were at the front quickly putting the finishing touches to the stage area where General Manager Will Sit was to make his much awaited ‘NBA trade deadline’ announcement. There were probably more than a hundred journalists, cameramen and sport reporters present; all seated. Name tags were set up at each space along the table at the front of the room; previewing who was going to be at this press meet. Alex Buckley was scribbling down some notes on his notepad with his tape recorder in his pocket. He was sitting in the fifth row back and just a two rows in front of news cameramen who were sitting up their own recording devices. Buckley was thinking to himself, trying to predict what would happen. There was a lot of speculation around the media that the Wolves would be trading away their star forward Kevin Garnett. However, a move involving Wally Szczerbiak was much more anticipated amongst experts. Some had even gone right down to predicting who he would be dealt for and most had mentioned Ricky Davis of the Boston Celtics.
Buckley then said to his colleague Peter Robinson who was sitting next to him, “You think they traded Wally?”
Robinson shook his head, “Sources tell me they got Paul Pierce and Ricky for Kevin.”
Buckley didn’t feel convinced and looked back up at the front of the room where Will Sit, Kevin McHale, Mark Moore and a few others shuffled out of a side door in single file. The men took their respective seats and the talking died down, as a Wolves spokesperson began to talk into a mic.
“It is with great pleasure to welcome all to this press conference. First up, we have former GM and Wolves coach Kevin McHale to say a few words.”
McHale smiled to the media and waved, “Thank you. When I took up my job as head coach, I knew that we could turn this franchise around. There have been rumours everywhere about possible deals that the team could make but at the end of the day, it’s always up to our General Manager to pull the trigger. I for one know that whatever deals have been made, I will support them. Thank you.”
McHale was given a round of applause before he sat back in his seat and gave the thumbs up to Sit. The spokesman then announced it was time for Sit to address the audience in front of him.
Sit slowly spoke, “It is my duty to announce that the Minnesota Timberwolves will make one move today. I know that this will be a bold move in making our franchise more competitive in the future and for the rest of this season.”
Sit looked at McHale, “Kevin, I appreciate how you support my decisions and I thank you for that.”
McHale nodded in acknowledgement before Sit continued, “So I hope that you stay true to your word in saying that you will support whatever move I have chosen to do. You’re fired.”
There was a collective gasp before the room began to fill with whispering and the low mumbling of talk. McHale looked at Sit in shock as Sit smiled behind his sunglasses with cameras flashing in his face.
Alex Buckley shouted out, “Mr Sit, is this your only move before the trade deadline?”
Sit nodded after vaguely hearing the question, “It is with the utmost regret that I inform of everyone that our head coach Kevin McHale will be replaced by assistant coach Mark Moore. Mark Moore will speak later and announce his new coaching staff.”
Moore then looked at Sit and even he was in shock, “I will?”
Sit nodded then looked at McHale who was slumped in his seat, “Cheer up Kev, at least you can have a long holiday now.”
McHale still couldn’t believe it as Sit’s words seemed to repeat themselves over and over again, ”You’re fired!”

Two weeks later…

“This is the first game since the shock sacking of Minnesota’s Kevin McHale who has been with the franchise for many years and mostly as it’s General Manager. Will Sit, in his radical move, promoted little known Mark Moore to a senior head coaching position and tonight, we shall see if the move pulls off an upset against the red hot Los Angeles Lakers. Welcome everyone to tonight’s game between the Minnesota Timberwolves verses the LA Lakers, Live from the Staples Centre!”
The intro music cut off as the camera panned in to picture the Inside the NBA crew of Magic Johnson, Kenny Smith, Ernie Johnson and Charles Barkley.
“And thanks for joining us for this pregame show of Inside the NBA,” Ernie Johnson coolly announced, “Tonight we have a real treat as the Lakers who are playing exceptional basketball take on the struggling Timberwolves. I think the Lakers are going to take it easy tonight. Kenny, you still think Minnesota can pull an upset?”
Kenny Smith shook his head, “After what Will Sit did to his own team and the guy who moved over to let him in, even if the Wolves were going to win, karma wouldn’t let them.”
Barkley raised his hand to interrupt, “Hey Jet, and if people think Isaiah has no brains, this Sit has no head. I don’t know what kind of sideshow he’s running in Minnesota but it’s definitely going to be dead at the end of tonight’s game. They should have a new tagline for their team.”
“And what’s that?” Ernie asked.
Charles laughed, “Stinking freak show. This team is so bad, that no one’s going to go to go to their games anymore. They will just stink.”
Ernie didn’t find it amusing and immediately shifted the focus to Magic Johnson, “So Magic, what do you think of this whole Minnesota incident?”
Magic shrugged, “To tell you the truth, Will Sit has really got himself in a mess. He’s got an inexperienced head coach in Mack Moore and hasn’t shaken anything up in a roster that needs to be shaken up. The team hasn’t played well together all season and it was time to do something about it. He’s really made a big gamble on keeping the side together.”
Kenny Smith then said, “And may I add that Kevin Garnett will probably demand a trade if the team doesn’t win some games soon.”
“Look at him down there now,” Charles smirked, “He looks like he could rip someone’s head off. Jack Nicholson better watch out tonight or it’s going to be The Shining Live at Staples!”
Ernie then pointed out to Magic, “Magic, I think the head coach is Mark and not Mack.”
Magic looked at his clipboard, “It says Mack here.”
Ernie looked at his, “I’m sure it’s Mark.”
“Enough of the Wolves,” Kenny stated, “What about the Lakers. Do we all think that they’re going to stay atop of the Pacific Division?”
“Look, Kobe’s playing dominating basketball right now Jet, I don’t see anyone stopping him,” Ernie said.
“Kevin Garnett can,” Charles said firmly.
Magic butted in, “But the Lakers have improved so much that they can step up if Kobe’s playing bad. And I think they are on a good roll right now and should keep the Suns and Warriors away from that potential top three seed.”
Ernie then announced, “And speaking of playing bad, when has Kobe played bad this season?”
Everyone looked at each other and collectively agreed that Kobe hadn’t had an off night for a while before they began to start previewing the rest of the game. Before long, Ernie looked up at the camera and announced that it was game time.

Marv Albert and Steve Kerr were calling the game as the two watched Kobe Bryant bring the ball up the floor. The Lakers crowd was going crazy as Bryant crossed over to his left then to his right and then took a step right before wrapping the ball around his body, dribbling behind his back before blowing past his defender by going left. Trenton Hassel fell over and watched helplessly as Bryant elevated into the air, holding the ball with his left hand before lifting his right hand up to shield the ball from the incoming Kevin Garnett.
“And Kobe lays it off the glass for two and here comes a free throw for a possible three point play,” Marv announced, “Kobe has played a wonderful game tonight, what do you think Steve?”
Kerr answered, “Kobe can take you left, right, inside or outside. He’s everywhere on the floor and he’s playing great basketball right now. And maybe the best in his career.”
Marv nodded in agreement, “Kobe won the Player of the month award for February after averaging 40 points a game for the month. It was a great achievement and this season, he’s finally showing signs of being as good as or maybe better than your old team mate Michael Jordan.”
Kerr was a little sceptical of the comparison and let Marv know why, “I wouldn’t say better but as an individual player, he is definitely up there. But until Kobe can prove he can play with his team mates, he will always be a few rungs below Michael.”
Kobe sank the free shot to the joy of the crowd, as he back-pedalled down the court Marv spoke, “And converts the three point play as the Lakers take a 97 to 74 lead, late in the fourth quarter!”

Mark Moore scratched his head as Jack Nicholson was shouting at him from behind, “They fired Kevin McHale and hired some loser to coach Minnesota. Oh what? This guy’s the loser, I wouldn’t have known!”
Moore was getting annoyed as he had taken a lot of insults throughout the game. There was only a few minutes left, so he decided to sub Garnett off. He sent Eddie Griffin on and his All-Star forward took a seat next to Mark Madsen.
“Tough luck,” Moore said to Garnett.
Garnett took a swig of water from his bottle before shaking his head, “Not luck, we’re just crap.”
Moore decided to ignore the comment and turned back on the game. He sighed and thought to himself about how he was stuck in this position. He then laughed at himself, At least I’m getting paid good money.

Sit sat in his office, watching the game live on TV. He couldn’t make the game because of a meeting with a potential new sponsor for the team. Sit watched highlights of Kobe’s season high six dunks against the Wolves with two over Garnett. Sit grimaced as the final score was shot onto the screen.
“The Lakers pulled out victors in the 113 to 82 victory. Kobe Bryant led the scoring with 41 points and 8 assists. Kevin Garnett tried his best by registering a big game with 24 points, 18 rebounds and 4 blocks.”
Sit shook his head in disappointment and started to wonder if he had done the wrong thing. The bad press was everywhere about how he was a bad general manager. And although Sit didn’t take much notice of it, the only thing he could do otherwise was joke to himself, At least I’ve only been mentioned with Isaiah Thomas’ name twice.
Sit decided it was time to leave the office and stood up to retrieve his jacket. Suddenly, the phone began to ring.
“Hello,” Sit answered.
It was Flo Ruf, “Hey Will! You have to switch onto ESPN right now!”
Sit laughed, “I already know we got hammered by the Lakers.”
Ruf continued, “It’s not that. Put on Sportscentre, I think I’m looking at the guy our franchise needs!”
Sit quickly fumbled out the remote from his desk draw and switched on the television, quickly flipping the channels. He sat down in his chair and watched.
Flo then asked, “What do you think?”
Sit replied, “This is good. This is really good.”

[Buckley]

Wow....i wonder what happened next.

this looks awesome.

[Mark.]

Awesome, im a NBA Head Coach, now nobody can stop my plan for world domination

[pHLo]

Awesome, im a NBA Head Coach, now nobody can stop my plan for world domination

to speak in KGs words....

A crappy team can



good stuff will

i'm sure i've found a valuable player for our team

[Sac-1]

That was funny, out of no where you are like "you're fired!". Good luck getting your team to the playoffs and i'll be waiting to see who that guy is.

[3C]

Very surprising not to mention a bold move by Sit. I hope McHale's replacement will justify his dismissal. Well written Sit I'm very impressed.

[kibaxx7]

Any chance to join the story as a NLSC character? It looks great.

[Fresh8]

Wow....i wonder what happened next.

this looks awesome.

- Thanks man... I hope you're ready for the next chapter

Awesome, im a NBA Head Coach, now nobody can stop my plan for world domination

- Right... and when did someone tell you to take over the world?

good stuff will

i'm sure i've found a valuable player for our team

- who said its a player??? ok ok.. it is a player... any guesses on who it is or wat type of player it is?

That was funny, out of no where you are like "you're fired!". Good luck getting your team to the playoffs and i'll be waiting to see who that guy is.

- Thanks Sac-1! I know I owned Kevin McHale!

Very surprising not to mention a bold move by Sit. I hope McHale's replacement will justify his dismissal. Well written Sit I'm very impressed.

- McHale was replaced by Mark... just to let you know And I'm sure he will do well enough till he gets replaced in the Summer Nah, just kidding, Mark's a keeper in his position...

Any chance to join the story as a NLSC character? It looks great.

- Dont worry my man, I already got everything set out and you will make ur guest appearance sooner or later

[Fresh8]

Chapter 17

Note: I haven’t watched Sportscentre before so can someone tell me if they do game recaps with game footage?

Reshawn Tyson felt the sweat drip off the tip of his nose as he was slouched over, with his hands placed on top of his knees, in the huddle. Coach Williams drew up the final play of the quarter. Tyson’s best friend Rocky Akonnor was sitting on the bench trying to understand the X’s and O’s on the little whiteboard. The Tar Heel fans were chanting loudly in the Greensboro Colosseum. The Blue Devil faithful were jeering even louder. William’s voice was drowned out by the noise around them and Rocky was looking very confused. The ref then blew his whistle and the players stuck their hands intro the middle of the circle.
“Tar Heels!” The players yelled out enthusiastically.
Reshawn led his team mates back onto the court. The freshman swingman was grinning with confidence as he lined himself at the bottom of the court. Rocky was standing a few steps away from him. He looked up at the scoreboard.
“We’re only losing by two,” He shouted, “Let’s get this one back!”
The Duke players ran back onto the court and Duke’s star Senior Moses Chara immediately ‘D’ed’ up on Tyson.
“You’re not getting past me boy,” Chara taunted.
Tyson gloated back, “You want to make a bet on that? I can beat you any day!”
Chara laughed, “Don’t get too cocky, you’ve only played good for two games so don’t get too high on yourself.”
Tyson shook his head, “I can beat you with my eyes closed.”
And before he could finish his sentence, the ref had blown his whistle once more and play resumed straight away. Rocky hesitated before setting a solid screen on Chara. Roy Williams threw his arms up then covered his eyes. Rocky had ruined the play and now it was time for the players to improvise.
Damn, Tyson thought before reacting quickly by using the screen to lose Chara and get open for the inbounds pass.
The clock was ticking away and Tyson was free for the shot. Everything seemed to go in slow motion as he looked around to find everyone watching for his very next move. Chara recovered from the opposing big man’s screen and sprinted at Tyson, leaping up in anticipation of a shot. Tyson calmly pump faked and waited for Chara to fly past before he popped up for the jumper with just three seconds left.
“Yes!” Tyson screamed out as he turned around and pumped his closed fist in the air.
The buzzer sounded as the whole stadium went dead silent. The silence was only interrupted by the swish of the net and then the crowd roared back to life. It was a like a dream come true and as cliché as it might sound but Tyson had just tied the game with the perfect play.
“Ty! You did it!” Akonnor yelled out and ran over to pick up his friend and lift him onto his shoulders.
The two youngest players in the game celebrated as the coaches ushered them to return to the bench to discuss the upcoming overtime period. Chara returned to the bench disappointedly and kicked a water bottle, spilling it all over the court. Two guys ran over to mop it clean but as they did it, they didn’t dare look Chara in the eye. He looked like he was about to eat someone up whole.

Overtime finished as quickly as it had started. A motivated Moses Chara scored five times in a row and twice denied shots by the younger Reshawn Tyson. He sent the ball flying into the crowd and re-energised his fans by slamming it down on the other end of the court. Chara left the court to a standing ovation from both team’s fans with a minute left in the game. He waved at everyone before taking a seat and watching his team finish with an all-important win for the ACC title. Confetti fell from the ceiling of the stadium as the Duke fans danced and cheered for their side. Reshawn led his young side off the court towards the locker room. His heroics were forgotten as soon as his team had lost in the last five minutes.

* * *

Sit was watching Sportscentre as the news anchor announced, “Duke has just beaten the North Carolina Tar Heels tonight in a thrilling match up for the ACC title. The Blue Devils proved that experience is indeed a key to winning and will take their form into the upcoming NCAA tournament. Senior guard Moses Chara, who has been identified as a Top Three NBA draft pick, scored 10 points in overtime to lead Duke to victory.”
Moses Chara appeared on screen blocking a shot and then dunking at the other end of the court as the news anchor continued, “The star player for Duke finished with a game high 32 points and added 8 rebounds and 4 blocks to that total.”
“However, North Carolina didn’t lose without putting up a fight!” He continued as pictures of Tyson flashed up on screen, “Freshman guard Reshawn Tyson continues to show flashes of brilliance after a quiet season campaign after scoring 18 points including this shot to tie the game and force overtime. The first year player has really surprised many people recently and looks like he will do well in the NCAA tournament to be held in Indianapolis later this month.”
Sit pointed the remote at the TV and switched it off. He picked up his phone to ring back Flo.
“Man, I like this Reshawn kid,” Sit said, “You found a great player man.”
Flo sounded a bit confused, “No no, I was thinking Moses Chara.”

The Wolves only had two games for the month and after the Lakers game; they had only one left against the Miami Heat. The Heat were in town for what would seem like an easy game to win for Miami. However, with their playoff hopes on the line, they knew that they had to play their best team on the floor in Minnesota. With Shaq injured, Kevin Garnett knew they had a chance to win. Sit inspected the Target Centre before it was opened to the many people who were to watch the game.
“Looks like we’re ready to make some noise tonight hey Mark?” Sit said to his new Head Coach.
Mark smiled, “It will be tough even with Shaq out.”
Sit shook his head, “Come on, we got to stay positive. I think we got what it takes to win tonight.”
Mark nodded, “I hope you’re right but the guys sure aren’t that positive about things.”
Sit then said, “That’s got to change then!”

Mark Moore screamed at his players on the court as Sit tried to hide behind the small whiteboard that Moore drew his plays on. Michael Olowokandi trudged up the floor after Dwyane Wade dunked on him. Moore called timeout and subbed him off right away. It was early in the game but Miami had taken an 8-0 lead. Mark Madsen was called up.
Garnett strolled past Madsen on the court, “Come on man, it’s time to turn this around.”
Madsen felt Garnett hit him on chest and gasped for air before coughing, “Yeah… I will…”
Marko Jaric brang the ball up for the Wolves and passed the ball to Garnett. The big man attracted the double team and passed the ball to Madsen who fumbled it and let the ball bounce out. The crowd booed him as the Wolves ran back down the court. Mark Moore though was surprisingly calm; he had faith in his forward.
Sit stood up to ask him, “You’re letting him play?”
Moore nodded, “He can prove he’s more than a cheerleader.”
Sit shook his head and went back to his seat, missing Jason Williams making a trey. Mark took another time out to rally his team. That was when the game started to get interesting.

“And Mark Madsen has just scored another jumper,” The commentator excitedly proclaimed, “The Wolves take a one point lead in the ball game! What a turn of events!”
On the court, the Wolves celebrated as Mark Madsen finished the quarter with 11 of the Wolves’ 21 points. The Heat only led 22-21 at the break and Wade was throwing a fit at the Heat bench. Wade had been blocked by Madsen to the delight of the Target Centre crowd.
“I told you so baby!” Garnett screamed at Madsen who was having a rest, “We’re going to win man!”
Madsen shook his head, “This is the first game I haven’t bricked a shot.”
Everyone laughed as Griffin chimed in, “Don’t jinx it man!”
Time was up and the ref signalled for the game to restart and the Wolves got back quickly onto the court. Led by Garnett and Madsen, the Wolves quickly set up their defence. They were playing tight man on man defence to force the turnover. Jaric and Kandi quickly blocked off Wade’s path and Madsen smartly stripped the ball off the third year guard. Wade threw his arms up and shouted at the refs, contesting the no call; claiming he was fouled. The ref shook his head and Madsen layed the ball up at the other end.
“That’s what I’m talking about baby!” Moore screamed and jumped up in joy.
The Wolves bench jumped up and down as well as they laughed. Madsen was the most improbable hero and least likely player to step up for any team. The Wolves fans began to chant ‘MVP’ as the Wolves continued to build onto their new found lead. Before long, the Wolves were leading 38-24 thanks to Mark Madsen’s 19 points and Kevin Garnett’s 12 points and 4 assists.

Sit sat in disbelief as time winded down. The Wolves had won their first game in nearly a month. And not only had they beaten the Heat but they had thrashed them. The Wolves had won 102-84. Mark Madsen finished with 28 points and 7 rebounds. Garnett had an all-around effort of 19 points, 14 rebounds and 9 assists. Dwyane Wade could only kick the ball into the stands earning a possible suspension. His 13 points were measly and obviously couldn’t get his team the win. He felt that he had let Shaq down. The Miami Heat big man watched the whole game; glued to the bench. Antoine Walker had led the Heat with a huge total of 35 points. After the buzzer had sounded, the Wolves retreated to the locker room where the media throng were waiting to interview Moore and Madsen; Moore for his first career wins and Madsen for his best game of the season. Sit smiled as he saw Madsen struggling to deal with his new found fans. In the other corner he heard Moore trying to explain how he had a good chance of staying with a coaching record better than fifty per cent. It seemed that for at least one night, the Wolves would be featured in a ‘feel good’ story again.
“Mr Sit,” A voice called from behind.
Sit turned and saw a journalist about his height behind him, “Yo?”
“I’m Alex Buckley,” The young man introduced himself, “May I ask you a few questions?”
“Sure,” Sit nodded before he did the interview.

With the rest of the month free of game commitments, Sit turned his focus to scouting. Sit had been keeping regular tabs on a few players and one of them happened to be North Carolina’s Reshawn Tyson. Flo was following the endeavours of the much more polished player in Moses Chara from Duke. March Madness had indeed swept the country of America as several big upsets had eventuated. One of the big upsets was when Wake Forest was knocked out of the first round by little known College Saint Peters- all thanks to the scoring of Keydren Clark. However, it was the performance of the Tar Heel’s Tyson that caught Sit’s attention. Tyson had a solid game with 15 points and 7 rebounds in their easy first round win against Murray State.
“Man, you can’t judge a player by stats purely,” Sit explained to Flo, “It’s how he played man. He plays so confidently. He’s a good kid, I can see.”
Flo shook his head, “Will, he’s only played good for like about ten games, he hasn’t done it all season.”
“He’s only a freshman.”
“Even more reason to focus on Moses. This guy’s a winner and he’s experienced. He led Duke to that big win over Southern.”
Sit shrugged, “Well, we will see how far he can go but now all we need to do is watch this game between Michigan State and North Carolina.”
Flo nodded in agreement, “Let’s see what your man can do.”

Reshawn Tyson was getting his ankles strapped before the team trainer walked in.
“Yo Bobby, what up?” Tyson asked.
“We got a visitor for you Ty,” Bobby answered before calling for everyone to leave the locker room.
Everyone left before a short Asian man entered through the door. He was wearing an expensive suit and sunglasses.
“I’m Will Sit,” Sit introduced himself to Tyson.
“Reshawn Tyson sir,” Tyson said to him.
“I’m the Minnesota Timberwolves GM, I’m here to watch you,” Sit announced.
“Oh yeah, there’s a lot of you out there tonight,” Tyson laughed and sort of boasted; as if Sit wasn’t that important.
“Well, I hope you like the new attention. Just play a good game tonight boy,” Sit challenged him, “Surprise us, my mate thinks Moses Chara is better than you.”
Tyson chewed on his gum then spat it at the trash can next to him before hopping off the bed he was laying on, “You’re friend is in for a show tonight then.”

[Jing]

wow yet another very long story..
did i die? or go back to china lol

[kibaxx7]

Dont worry my man, I already got everything set out and you will make ur guest appearance sooner or later

Great man!

Wow Madsen 19 points

[pHLo]

yeah, i like it man

but u'll see.... Moses will be the better player in the NBA
Ty is just too inconstant man... he may have a few big games, but then nearly disappear in other games

nah it's cool, i like both of them

and Madsen being the hero is just illogical xD
remember that last second buzzerbeating gamewinner layup he missed for the wolves a few years ago ?

damn... i was so angry xD



and yeh... ur tim tams haven't arrived yet

[Fresh8]

wow yet another very long story..
did i die? or go back to china lol

- I'm guessing ur still triad

Great man!

Wow Madsen 19 points

- 19 in one half is spectacular indeed!

yeah, i like it man

but u'll see.... Moses will be the better player in the NBA
Ty is just too inconstant man... he may have a few big games, but then nearly disappear in other games

nah it's cool, i like both of them

and Madsen being the hero is just illogical xD
remember that last second buzzerbeating gamewinner layup he missed for the wolves a few years ago ?

damn... i was so angry xD



and yeh... ur tim tams haven't arrived yet

- Yes, and do you remember Walton passing back back to Kobe and lost the game? Players like Walton and Madsen are cool! I have respect for them... white role players

[Fresh8]

(3) North Carolina 82, (6) Michigan State 74

Preview - Box Score - Recap

By JOE KAY, AP Sports Writer
March 19, 2006

DAYTON, Ohio (AP) -- With several NBA scouts present, North Carolina’s Reshawn Tyson didn’t fail to disappoint as he stole the show from Michigan State’s star forward Felix Kwong.

North Carolina led from the start. Their place in the following round didn’t seem at threat until Kwong led a mini comeback but it came too late.

North Carolina, who lost their top seven scorers from the previous season, was man handled by the Spartans. Junior Felix Kwong and his team mates took advantage of the inexperience of the UNC roster, picking it apart with their poise despite trailing by 17 at one stage. Kwong scored 28 points and pulled down 11 rebounds and lead the Spartans late in the second half where they kept the Tar Heels scoreless and went on a 14-0 rip that lifted them within 2 points of their opponents.

UNC freshman Reshawn Tyson finally got things going after missing 10 of his 12 shots during the second half. The swingman scored his team’s last 7 points, including a pair of free throws that sealed the win with just 6 seconds left.

Tyson scored a game and tournament high of 34 points and added 5 rebounds to his name. His freshman team mate Rocky Akonnor also played a significant role for the Tar Heels as the 7’3”, 320 lbs centre scored 14 points, grabbed 15 rebounds and swatted 6 shots. Michigan State had its entire starting line up score in double figures.

“It was a good win,” Coach Roy Williams spoke of his team, “We’re a young team and it’s good that Reshawn is stepping up right now. We really needed a dependable player on the court.”

The Tar Heels struggled to find consistency for the whole college season due to the excess of college basketball inexperience but now Reshawn Tyson gives them new hope of doing well in the NCAA tourney. And as some may also add, he gives Tar Heel followers a preview of the future in next season when he returns as a sophomore.

“We can really justify why we are a number three seed in all of this,” Freshman point guard Matt Nugget said, “I think as a team, we can make the Final Four.”

Spartans’ forward Kwong commented after the game that he was going to declare for the 2006 NBA Draft. The disappointed junior is projected as a first round draft pick and has the size and skills to be a good big man in the NBA game. “I’m a little bit sad that we couldn’t keep going in this tournament but I must admit that we lost to a team that isn’t too bad and a player who could be one of the better players in college basketball next year,” Kwong stated.

Tyson put on a dazzling display with a handful of dunks and numerous jump shots with defenders sticking their hands in his face. The 6’6” shooting guard didn’t seem to be put off by anything. Coach Williams wasn’t surprised with his game, “He (Tyson) does it all the time in practises. I knew that he was a good player, he only needed time to adjust and get to fit into the team.”

Now it seems that the lightly recruited player who had to beg for a scholarship in able to attend the school at Chapel Hill is finally introducing himself to the basketball world. As coach Williams puts it, “He’s been a shy kid and our intentions were never to have him be the star in his first year here. He’s comfortable doing anything for the team so as a role player, he was efficient. Now though, we know we need him so that we can do well in this tournament.”

His performance only lifted his stocks if he ever needed to leave college early as scouts from the Utah Jazz, New Orleans Hornets, Milwaukee Bucks and Minnesota Timberwolves and other European teams were present. It was reported that Minnesota’s own General Manager Will Sit and the Timberwolves’ Head Coach Mark Moore were also present at the match.

“It’s great to have people watching you play because everyone knows you play a lot better when there’s a crowd cheering you on,” The 18 year old Tyson told media, “I hope I can play better in the next game too!”

The ACC runner-ups North Carolina now faces another tough opponent in second seeded Tennessee in four days time.