Altitude sickness

Altitude sickness? Yes...

At a substantial elevation of 1,300 meters, Salt Lake City's lower barometric pressure means that the Jazz's home court is often in a state of oxygen deficiency.

Without specialized training,

Even the physically well-prepared NBA players may feel unwell as the air becomes thinner, making high-intensity efforts challenging after a while.

And with individual physical differences,

Players might experience 'altitude sickness' under these high-altitude conditions, with common symptoms including headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and blurred vision.

Now...

Carlos, who previously had no issues, suddenly felt a headache—a clear sign of 'altitude sickness' due to the low air pressure at high altitudes in Salt Lake City.

Although it's just a mild headache and not severe,

It still affects the player, especially Carlos, who had just gone through three away games and was now facing a back-to-back fourth game on the road. The situation looked grim.

"It must be," Curry realized, putting down his phone, poured a cup of hot water and handed it to Carlos, saying, "Here, drink some hot water, it helps alleviate the altitude sickness. Make sure to keep warm. Also, getting more rest could help."

"Thanks," Carlos accepted the water.

Curry set the kettle aside and added, "There's still some time before the game. You can rest for a bit longer and then we'll see how you feel. If it's not working out... I suggest you sit out tonight. Playing with a headache isn't good."

"Hmm..." Carlos pursed his lips, "I'll rest for now, maybe I'll get used to it after a while."

"Okay," Curry nodded and immediately informed the team doctor and Coach Gentry about Carlos's condition. Soon, the three of them arrived at Carlos's room, found him resting, and decided not to disturb him.

After closing the door, Gentry pulled Curry aside in the hallway, his expression serious, "As you know, Carlos is experiencing 'altitude sickness', something unexpected for all of us.

Even a slight headache can impact his performance and could even lead to him sitting out. Carlos is an absolute key player.

He could be the X-factor that affects the outcome of the game.

But for the rest of you, I'll repeat what I've said before, we've fought hard to get here, and I want you to keep winning. If Carlos is having an off day, there's nothing we can do about it.

So... if Carlos isn't at his best, I need you to step up, help the team score, and keep our winning streak alive."

"I will, Coach," Curry responded earnestly.

As the team's second in command, it was his duty.

...

8 PM...

At the Vivint Smart Home Arena.

With an hour to go before the game, the venue was nearly full, with dense crowds of home supporters already cheering for the Jazz.

The home-court atmosphere was intense—

On the court...

Gentry approached Carlos, "How are you feeling? All good?"

"Still a bit of a headache, but I think it's manageable," Carlos replied.

"Really?" Gentry looked concerned, "Carlos, if you're not feeling well, don't push it. While I want us to win more, I care about your health even more, you got that?!

Our main goal isn't just a winning streak, but the playoffs, and ultimately the finals. And all of this is dependent on your health, your absolute health!"

"Yeah..." Carlos felt warmed by the concern, nodded with a smile, "I understand, Coach. Don't worry."

Indeed, there's still a bit of a headache, but it's not to the point where he can't play, and Carlos is well aware of the significant impact his absence could have on the team.

Perhaps... it could mean a loss?

Regardless...

Having already achieved a 20-game winning streak, he temporarily doesn't want to lose, at least... not due to his absence leading to a team loss.

...

At the commentator's table...

Van Gundy tightened his blue tie and said, "Mike, you know? It's going to be quite a challenge for the Suns to win against the Jazz tonight."

"Oh? Why? The Suns are the top powerhouse of the Western Conference, while the Jazz are barely tenth in the West," Mike Breen expressed his confusion, chiming in.

Van Gundy clenched his fist, then raised his pinky finger, explaining, "Firstly, this is the fourth consecutive away game for the Suns, and it's back-to-back. The continuous travel has been draining their stamina and form.

Even with a 20-game winning streak and being the top team in the West, it won't be easy for the Suns to win tonight.

Secondly, the Jazz have Deron Williams, an explosively powerful point guard, ranked among the top five in the league. His Western Conference Player of the Month award last month is a testament to his strength.

If he gets going in scoring and organizing the play, it can really give the opposition a headache. Thirdly, the Jazz are known for their 'devilish home court'. Do you know why it's called that?!"

"Why is that?"

His longtime partner Mike Breen continued the back-and-forth.

Van Gundy paused and went on, "First of all, the high altitude of 1,300 meters puts opponents in an environment of low pressure and oxygen deficiency, which can be quite uncomfortable.

They might be able to play initially, but their performance could drop as the game goes on.

Furthermore...

Jazz fans are exceptionally fervent; visiting teams can always hear a continuous stream of curses, as well as boos raining down from the stands. When you step into this arena,

from the warm-up, you're met with hostile stares, and during the game, the fans who furiously boo you will call you terrible, a rookie, or even worse.

Their fanaticism makes Salt Lake City one of the noisiest home courts, which can even sway the referees. This kind of crazy home atmosphere is a big test for visiting teams.

Besides...

The layout of the Vivint Smart Home Arena is different from typical basketball courts, with steep fan stands that make the players feel as if they're playing in a deep well.

It's oppressing...

This is another reason visiting teams struggle.

All these factors contribute to the Jazz's 'devilish home court'.

And data shows, the Jazz's away win rate this year is only 41%, one reason for their being tenth in the West, but their home win rate is as high as 91%.

That is the terror of the Jazz's 'devilish home court'; winning here... is difficult.

And the fourth point, which is the most important, the Suns announced before the game that their absolute core player Carlos, due to 'altitude sickness' causing a headache,

might miss the game.

Looking at him warming up on the court now, he seems to be in good shape, but that's just seemingly so. We don't know the exact state of Carlos's health.

But... Carlos with 'altitude sickness', whether he plays well or not, will definitely be one of the X-factors determining the direction of the game."