Chapter 269: Mechanized Descent.
At halftime, the Cavaliers held a commanding 58-43 lead over the Lakers, a 15-point margin.
The Cavaliers had shot an impressive 7-of-14 from three-point range, boasting a 50% accuracy.
Kyrie Irving was the primary contributor to the Cavaliers' strong first-half performance. He made 9 of his 11 field-goal attempts, converted 7 of 8 free throws, and racked up a game-high 27 points.
...
"Do you want this game to end with everyone mocking you for not earning that damned respect? Or do you want to join me and win this damned game?!"
In the players' tunnel, Kobe Bryant cornered LeBron James against the wall.
After enduring a stifling first half, Kobe's emotions finally erupted.
This was the first time Kobe had lost his composure since LeBron joined the Lakers.
LeBron didn't answer but lowered his head.
Only at halftime did he realize something—the entire half, he wasn't comparing himself to Han Sen anymore. Instead, he was locked in a battle with the younger Kyrie Irving—and he lost, badly.
All LeBron wanted now was for the game to end quickly so he could escape to Diddy's party, where the madness would help him forget everything.