After the final pep talk, the Trail Blazers collectively calmed their slightly restless hearts.
Gan Guoyang was right—the Trail Blazers were battle-tested. After an entire season of honing the Princeton Offense, the players had developed exceptional chemistry.
Their offensive efficiency was higher than last season, their defensive intensity stronger than before. They were the best team in the league, bar none.
Of course, confidence stemmed not only from words but also from action.
As the first quarter began, Gan Guoyang hit consecutive mid-range jumpers from the top of the arc.
Exploiting Charles Barkley's lack of height, Gan Guoyang wasted no time, catching the ball and pulling up for shot after shot.
Sinking four straight jumpers right over Barkley's head, Gan had him flustered—Barkley pressed closer and closer. On the fifth possession, Gan opted to drive, breaking through, and faced Sam Bowie at the rim. With a polished hook shot, he scored another two points!
