Chapter 77: Signing with Anta

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Back at the Knicks' facilities, the team was abuzz not about the Player of the Week awards but rather rumors of head coach Don Chaney's dismissal.

When Chaney first heard of it, he stormed into the management office, demanding answers. He couldn't believe that the Knicks, after two years of his dedication, would consider firing him.

Despite his middling track record, Chaney felt his efforts were underappreciated. "What more could they expect from coaching a team like this? We've even started the season with three consecutive wins!"

In the executive office, Scott Layden confirmed the rumors. However, he gave Chaney enough respect to offer him time to find another position, allowing him to stay with the Knicks until the end of the month.

Walking out of the meeting room, Chaney looked devastated. He couldn't fathom how his player-centric coaching approach wasn't considered a legitimate strategy.

Meanwhile, the news spread throughout the coaching staff. Many assistants speculated about who might take over. Would it be an external hire or someone promoted from within?

Herb Sendek, a young assistant coach, felt a mixture of emotions. He had expected Chaney's tenure to end soon, as the NBA was an unforgiving league. Yet, he was shocked at the timing—three straight wins should have bought more leeway.

Still, Sendek didn't harbor illusions of taking the helm himself. He lacked the experience and clout needed for such a prominent role. All he hoped for was a chance to step into a more tactical position, such as an assistant coach responsible for game strategies.

While the Knicks' coaching turmoil brewed, attention shifted to the Player of the Week announcement.

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**At Madison Square Garden**

"Steve, is Wang not at practice today?"

Allan Houston entered the training facility, noticing the absence of the team's star rookie.

Steve Nash shrugged and tossed a ball his way. "Herb said Wang took the day off for some personal matters."

Nearby, Kurt Thomas looked perplexed. "But he and I planned to hit the weight room this afternoon!"

Nash raised his hands in innocence, while Houston smirked knowingly. "Kurt, do you really think you can handle a weight session with Wang? That guy's idea of a workout would leave you in shambles."

Thomas chuckled nervously, "No way, man. I wasn't planning to push it. I just wanted to pick up a few tips from him."

Nash and Houston exchanged glances, recalling their own past experiences with Wang's intense training routines. Houston remembered one particular session when Wang's "warm-up" involved weights most players couldn't handle during a full workout. Ever since then, Houston had wisely stuck to training with Nash instead.

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**At David Falk's Office**

Meanwhile, Wang Song was attending to business elsewhere. In a private office, the final details of a groundbreaking endorsement deal were being finalized.

Representatives from Chinese sportswear giant Anta were present, including CEO Ding Zhong and international director Zhao An.

"Pleasure working with you, Wang. Here's to a prosperous partnership," Ding Zhong said, extending his hand.

"Likewise," Wang replied, shaking the CEO's hand firmly.

Ding, impressed by Wang's towering stature and massive hands, couldn't help but smile. "You're nearly as physically imposing as Yao Ming, just a bit leaner. But that's nothing a good strength program can't fix."

Having met Yao Ming during Anta's Olympic sponsorship endeavors, Ding had been awed by his size. Yet Wang's presence was equally captivating.

"You've got the natural gifts to become a top-tier center," Ding added. "We'll handle the shoe design and follow up with you directly. If the season gets too busy, we can send our designers to meet you in person."

This level of attentiveness didn't go unnoticed by Zhao An. Offering to send designers directly to the player was a privilege reserved for only the highest-profile endorsers.

Wang nodded appreciatively. "Anta has been very thoughtful in accommodating my schedule. I'm happy with the arrangement."

The terms of the contract had also been a pleasant surprise. Anta had agreed to an 8% royalty rate on sales—higher than the 5% Michael Jordan had negotiated for his Air Jordan line in its early days. This decision reflected the company's confidence in Wang's potential to become a global brand ambassador.

With the deal finalized, Wang couldn't help but feel optimistic about this new chapter in his career.

(End of Chapter)