Chapter 44: Double Payback.
Before the game began, Coach Brown, accompanied by two assistant coaches, entered the locker room to announce the starting lineup for the season opener.
Mo Williams, Parker, James, Varejão, and O'Neal.
After announcing the starters and giving a brief motivational speech, Brown left the locker room with his staff.
As soon as Brown left, Varejão stood up with a teasing look toward Han Sen. O'Neal's recent remarks, combined with changes during practice over the past few days, made Varejão think he was about to lose his starting spot.
But luckily for him, this was still James' team. As long as he stayed close to James, what couldn't he have?
O'Neal frowned.
"Come outside for a minute." At that moment, Malone returned and called Han Sen out of the locker room.
"The team thinks you're still young and lack experience, so they're planning to have you start from the bench. Keep your head in the game," Malone was here to help him manage his emotions.
After all, based on his preseason performance, he deserved to start.
Han Sen nodded but showed no strong reaction.
"If you have something on your mind, just say it. Don't hold it in," Malone said, concerned by his unusual calmness.