SWISH!
It actually went in.
The Staples Center was stunned for a moment, then the Lakers fans erupted in a ferocious cheer.
The lead was cut to one point.
With 26 seconds left, the Lakers' chances of winning suddenly skyrocketed.
The more than 20,000 people in the arena grew tense and excited, anticipating the suspenseful and momentous final outcome.
It was especially important for the Lakers fans.
If they won, they would keep the suspense alive.
If they lost, their season would end with them as the biggest losers. The Lakers Dynasty would inevitably crumble. Everyone knew that forming the "Super Fab Four" lineup this year was their last-ditch effort. If the Lakers won the championship, management might still keep the core duo of O'Neal and Kobe.
The Pacers didn't call a timeout.
Under a full-court press, Su Xi pushed past Kobe and reached for the ball. Kobe kept harassing him, but Su Xi's rhythm was steady. Unhurried and composed, he brought the ball into the frontcourt.
