Chapter 262: The Light of Cleveland.
The FedExForum was packed to capacity for the season opener. As Han Sen and his teammates emerged from the tunnel, the arena lights dimmed, and a spotlight illuminated the center court.
It was time for the championship ring ceremony.
A wave of boos, loud and unrelenting, swept through the arena as Michael Heisley stepped into the spotlight.
Heisley had not returned to Memphis since leaving in July, but as the owner, he couldn't skip the championship ceremony. Accompanied by his assistant, Rush, and two bodyguards, Heisley's face was grim.
Public sentiment often dissipates over time. For example, when LeBron James left Cleveland and faced backlash after "The Decision," some fans burned jerseys and protested at his house. However, when he returned, the outrage had subsided to mere boos.
Memphis fans were no different in principle, but this was Memphis—a city where unpredictability reigned. Security measures had to be airtight.
Heisley's expression darkened further as the ceremony began. Being booed by your own fans during a dynasty's championship ceremony was unprecedented.
The event itself lacked grandeur. The championship rings were generic, and the ceremony felt like an obligatory formality. With Han Sen gone and the team's ownership status uncertain, it was clear the franchise was merely going through the motions.
When the spotlight shone on Han Sen, the atmosphere shifted dramatically. Despite wearing a Cavaliers warmup, the crowd erupted in deafening applause and cheers.
The fans at the airport yesterday had only been the tip of the iceberg. Regardless of Han Sen's fallout with Heisley, his role in leading the Grizzlies to three consecutive championships made him a hero in Memphis.
The stark contrast in reception between Heisley and Han Sen couldn't have been more apparent.