Chapter 84: Big Ben’s Return—The Battle of Talent: Alex Mo vs. Garnett!

"Player of the Week—Again! Alex Mo Makes NBA History!""The First Rookie in NBA History to Be Named Player of the Week for Two Consecutive Weeks!""Even Michael Jordan Didn't Do This!"

The news spread like wildfire across the U.S. sports world. Major newspapers and magazines, including the Los Angeles Times, ran headlines celebrating Alex Mo's achievement. The cover photo? His monster dunk over Alonzo Mourning.

In NBA history, no rookie had ever won Player of the Week twice in their debut season. Alex Mo was the first to fill that gap, earning his second Player of the Week honor with a dominant individual performance and an undefeated team record.

Even in China, where the news arrived a little later, the sports media devoted six full minutes to covering Alex's historic accomplishment.

"He did what even Michael Jordan never did!"

This news caught the attention of many casual viewers in China, most of whom already knew who Jordan was. A Chinese player accomplishing something Jordan hadn't? It sent shockwaves through the sports community.

The buzz only grew when fans learned that CCTV would broadcast Alex Mo's next game live, featuring a highly anticipated showdown between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Minnesota Timberwolves.

November 18 – Target Center, Minnesota

The Target Center was packed, with nearly 20,000 fans in attendance. It wasn't just Timberwolves supporters—there were plenty of Lakers fans and even Chinese fans who had come to watch Alex Mo in person.

"Today's game is being called 'The Battle of Talent' or 'The Battle of the Future,'" said the commentator on CCTV. "Director Zhang, many say Kevin Garnett could be the toughest opponent Alex Mo will face in his career."

"That's true," Director Zhang agreed. "I've seen a lot of Garnett's footage. He's got impressive skills for someone his size—very similar to Alex."

Garnett was known for his versatility, but when it came to overall performance, Alex Mo outshined him in almost every area except assists.

Big Ben Returns

The spotlight wasn't just on Alex. Ben Wallace, a fan favorite known for his toughness, was finally back after serving his suspension.

Big Ben had become hugely popular in China, second only to Alex, Jordan, and Iverson. Even though he was undrafted, his reputation skyrocketed after he famously protected Alex during an altercation.

"Mo needs someone like Big Ben by his side," said Director Zhang. "A court bodyguard who makes sure no one messes with him!"

Despite the controversy surrounding Big Ben's punch, many Chinese fans supported him. His return had fans excited, even if they hoped he'd avoid another suspension-worthy incident.

Kevin Garnett Talks Big

Before the game, Garnett confidently told reporters:"I'm the same height as Alex Mo, but I'm faster, I jump higher, and I'm more flexible."

He added, "I don't just make myself better—I make my teammates better."

In short: "I'm better than Alex Mo."

Warm-Ups and Mind Games

In the Lakers' pre-game warm-ups, Big Ben approached Alex Mo, gripping a basketball in one hand."Mo, this Garnett guy talks too much. He's asking for it."

Alex shook his head, trying to calm him down. "We're here to play basketball, Ben. No fights today."

Big Ben smirked. "It's not a fight—it's… basketball with attitude."

Game Time

The warm-ups ended, and the starting lineups took the court.

"Mo, Allen, we meet again," Timberwolves shooting guard Ray Allen said.

Ray had played against Alex and Iverson in college, and he hadn't forgotten the Big East Championship loss. Today was his chance for revenge.

"If you want to win, show me how much you've improved," Iverson said bluntly. "Forget the talk—let's play."

Ray Allen smiled. "Understood."

The Opening Tip

The Timberwolves won the jump ball, and Kevin Garnett received the first pass, facing off directly against Alex Mo.

Garnett made a series of three-threat moves, holding the ball high and faking several times. Then, he pulled up for a long two-pointer.

Swish!

The crowd roared as Garnett drained the shot. He pounded his chest and prepared to celebrate—but then he caught a glimpse of Big Ben on the Lakers' bench, flexing his muscles and staring at him.

Garnett hesitated mid-celebration.

"Wait… is he threatening me?"

He quickly put his hand down and ran back on defense, unsure whether to keep flexing or stay quiet.

The Battle Begins

This wasn't just a game—it was a showdown between two of the NBA's most promising young stars.

The Timberwolves had taken the first shot, but Alex Mo was just getting started.