Gan Guoyang and Jordan both attached great importance to this game.
In their first encounter of the season, the Bulls conquered Portland's home court.
Jordan was eager to win this game and complete a season sweep against the Trail Blazers.
If he did, it would be the first time in his career that he swept Ah Gan in the regular season.
Previously, it was mostly Guoyang who swept Jordan, and some games were won with ease.
Times have changed, and now it was Guoyang's turn not to want to be swept by the Bulls, as it could psychologically impact the impending Finals between the two.
Both players were very serious before the game, not chatting and laughing as they usually would, but warming up with their own teammates.
As the game approached, Guoyang took a piece of gum from Calvin's hand, unwrapped it, and stuffed it into his mouth.
Petrović sat on the bench with a freshly opened bottle of Gatorade in hand, feeling a bit thirsty and ready to take a sip.
