Chapter 227: Defeating the Strongest.
"DW is a respected opponent on the court. I hope he's okay and look forward to competing with him in Game 6."
After wrapping up the press conference, Han Sen immediately called Dwyane Wade. Wade's injury status was, of course, confidential, and Han didn't probe too much—just a friend checking in with another.
Game 6 at the American Airlines Arena
The arena was packed as usual, buzzing with anticipation. For the Memphis Grizzlies, it was a potential championship-clinching game. For the Miami Heat, it could be their final stand.
NBA Commissioner David Stern, his assistant Adam Silver, and league officials were all present to witness what could be a historic moment. Beyond the outcome, all eyes were on whether Wade would play.
During the pre-game warmups, Wade, dressed in his training gear, remained seated courtside, avoiding any warmup drills. The answer came during the opening ceremony: Wade was in the starting lineup for the Heat.
When Wade stepped onto the court, his knee heavily braced, the crowd erupted.
Pre-game speculation from ESPN suggested Wade might receive painkillers to play. However, Miami's CBS affiliate refuted the report, claiming Wade wouldn't risk his career. Evidently, CBS had been throwing up a smokescreen.
Before tip-off, Han Sen embraced Wade.
Wade was notorious for being submissive to his teammates, even yielding to the 'alpha' players. But when it came to himself, he was ruthless—two seemingly contradictory behaviors, both driven by the desire to win.
Even though he was playing through injections, Wade's playstyle relied heavily on explosive drives, and Han's defense significantly limited his offensive threat.