Chapter 44: The Draft Lottery
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After a vivid exchange of visions and promises, Wang Song successfully persuaded David Falk to accept his bold requests.
Through the conversation, Falk sensed Wang Song's determination and potential, which were sufficient to earn his support.
While Wang Song's lofty goals might not all come to fruition, Falk believed that his involvement would yield solid returns, regardless of how far Wang Song could go.
Since Michael Jordan's retirement, Falk hadn't experienced the "golden touch" he once had. However, this grand venture with Wang Song reignited some of that spark.
Of course, none of this could proceed without a performance-based agreement. Wang Song proposed a contract with a performance clause:
"Mr. Falk, I promise to secure Rookie of the Year in my first season and achieve career honors on par with or beyond those of Jordan."
"If I fulfill this, I expect the lowest commission rate among all your clients, including Jordan. Otherwise, I'll accept the maximum commission rate per standard agreements."
Falk admired Wang Song's audacity, especially since this agreement meant Falk's earnings would fluctuate massively depending on Wang Song's success.
For an elite agent, small shifts in commission rates tied to high-value contracts could mean monumental changes in income.
With such a lucrative opportunity, Falk was motivated to work tirelessly on Wang Song's behalf.
"By the way, Wang, the draft isn't far off. Do you have a preference for teams or conferences? East or West? I need to start aligning with the right franchises."
"West," Wang replied with conviction.
"Ah, makes sense. Young players these days are drawn to the West Coast's vibrant energy," Falk said with a smile.
For Wang Song, it wasn't just a matter of lifestyle. The East felt stagnant to him—a shallow pool with limited competition. He preferred the intensity of the Western Conference, where battles against top contenders would prepare him for the ultimate challenge: the Finals.
Armed with Wang's input, Falk began reaching out to various teams to gauge interest.
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### A Month and a Half Later
The final standings were in, and the much-anticipated draft lottery was underway.
The Denver Nuggets and Cleveland Cavaliers, holding the league's worst records, were the favorites to land the top pick.
Naturally, other teams were eager to trade for the coveted first pick, given the wealth of talent in this draft class. But Cleveland, in particular, was unlikely to let go of such a golden opportunity—especially with a chance to draft local star LeBron James.
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### Draft Lottery Night
Fans across the nation tuned in as ping-pong balls determined the fate of their beloved teams.
LeBron James himself attended the event at the Cavaliers' home arena, while other top prospects, such as Carmelo Anthony, waited at home.
Wang Song, however, watched from Falk's luxurious estate. Over the past month, Falk had been relentless in his efforts, drawing interest from multiple teams.
"Clippers, Knicks, and Warriors have all shown strong interest," Falk began.
"New York, in particular, is practically obsessed with you. Scott Layden is willing to put nearly everyone on the trade block to move up."
"Only Allan Houston is untouchable," Falk added with a chuckle.
"Any interest in New York?"
Wang Song shook his head. While he had no strong preference, New York's chaotic management didn't inspire confidence.
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### The Lottery Results
As the lottery began, the room fell silent. The ping-pong balls spun rapidly before the first combination emerged: **4-3-9-6**.
The Cavaliers staff erupted in celebration, joined by ecstatic Cleveland fans across the city. Even LeBron James, watching from the arena, leaped in joy as he hugged the team's executives.
The Nuggets, meanwhile, were left disappointed. With a 25% chance at the top pick, they had been the favorites alongside Cleveland. Instead, they'd have to settle for a lower spot.
The second pick brought further heartbreak for Denver. Despite a 21.5% chance, the number went to the Memphis Grizzlies—or rather, the Detroit Pistons, who owned Memphis' pick from a prior trade.
This made the Pistons the biggest winners of the night, as they would secure one of the draft's top talents.
Finally, the Nuggets received the third pick. While not ideal, they could still land a top prospect.
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### Aftermath
"Denver's luck is trash," Carmelo Anthony muttered at home, slightly disappointed by the outcome.
For the rest of the lottery, the remaining picks fell in line based on standings.
4. Toronto Raptors
5. Miami Heat
6. Los Angeles Clippers
7. Chicago Bulls
8. Milwaukee Bucks
As the draft order solidified, Falk turned to Wang Song.
"Well, Wang, it looks like we'll be fielding offers from a diverse range of teams. Let's get to work."
Wang Song nodded. His journey to the NBA was just beginning.
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*(Chapter Ends)*