Chapter 6: Is Being Young Also a Problem?

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In 1996, broadcasting conditions were limited, but fortunately, NCAA games always attracted considerable attention. Li You delivered a dazzling performance against Eastern Michigan University, impressing several scouts anew. Basketball ultimately comes down to getting the ball through the hoop. Although the opponents lacked great talent, Li You’s finishing on drives during the first half was remarkably efficient.

Dave Wall, a senior scout for the Lakers, was primarily responsible for observing and evaluating players in college and international leagues. A former player from the 1960s who had stints with several teams including the Washington Bullets and Philadelphia 76ers, he won an NBA championship in 1969 and later coached various teams. Having just joined the Lakers’ management team in 1995, he came tonight mainly to watch Ray Allen. However, by halftime, he found himself captivated by Li You’s performance.

“Extremely disciplined, adept at using his body, unafraid of contact, excellent finishing at the rim!”
“Seems to lack explosiveness, Asian, 18 years old?”

He jotted a question mark in his notebook. Dave Wall found Li You intriguing and, combined with data he had previously gathered, it seemed he had discovered a gem.

At halftime, the score was 32-40, with Connecticut leading by eight points. Many fans at the arena were still savoring Li You’s display—young fans always favored flashy ball handling! Although Ray Allen also played well, Li You’s several brilliant dribbles with the ball left a deeper impression on the crowd.

During halftime, even Ray Allen couldn’t contain his curiosity, as Li You’s style was completely different from what he had imagined:
“Li, how do you do that? I mean, that off-balance floater—how do you manage to get the ball into the basket like that?”

Teammates perked up their ears, amazed that after such contorted moves, the shot still went in—it was truly remarkable.

Li You responded without reservation, speaking seriously in a clear voice:
“Maintain your body’s center of gravity, then gently toss the ball toward the hoop. Just be careful not to throw it off target!”

“Shh!!”

Everyone joined in with a playful booing sound, then the conversation turned to Li You’s sudden burst of form.

“Flight attendant! It has to be flight attendant!”
“He’s cracked the golden wheat! Just like those Hong Kong movies!”

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Influenced by Li You, the group had taken to watching wuxia films during their downtime. Beyond Bruce Lee’s classic movies, Jackie Chan’s films were the most frequently watched...

In the second half, Li You scored 11 points, grabbed 2 rebounds, dished out 2 assists, and made 1 steal on 6 shots with 5 makes. Coming off the bench, he completely overwhelmed the opposing undersized backcourt.

Coach Calhoun returned to the locker room hearing a lot of “flight attendant” shouts, which puzzled him a bit, but he paid them no mind. Instead, he patted Li You on the shoulder and continued his instructions:

“Maintain the lead. We need to secure the boards. They’ll keep shooting—that’s their only effective offense.”

“Knight, extend your defensive coverage!”

Following the coach’s reminders, everyone quieted down, nodding seriously in acknowledgment.

Li You heard Coach Calhoun’s intention to slow the pace in the second half and understood that his playing time would not increase. He was still somewhat out of sync with the NCAA’s rhythm; whenever the team led, the coaching staff preferred to stabilize the game.

...

As the second half began, Dave Wall, seated in the front row, felt somewhat disappointed to see Li You remain on the bench. Soon, he reminded himself that Li You was only a sophomore.

“His style doesn’t match his age. Compared to peers, he’s more mature.”

After noting this trait, Dave Wall smiled, recalling remarks from his peers, and muttered to himself:

“He really does look more like a high schooler!”

Ray Allen’s talent was glaringly obvious—his quickness, jumping ability, release height—none of the other players on the court could compare.

Though Wall doubted the Lakers would secure a top-five pick, he still highlighted Ray Allen for special attention and likewise marked Li You as a player to watch.

In the second half, when Li You entered as a substitute, he reverted to a conventional, steady point guard style. After crossing midcourt, he passed to an inside player near the paint and then followed screens and cuts with teammates.

Each offensive possession lasted almost 30 seconds. Aside from occasional fast breaks, Eastern Michigan was completely suppressed throughout the half.

When Li You made several off-ball cuts and hit an open three-pointer from the right wing beyond the arc, Dave Wall nodded approvingly.

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Contrary to the collected data, sophomore Li You, though given limited opportunities, exerted significant influence on the team.

The second half lacked spectacular scoring plays—running set plays, finding open shots, low-post attacks securing two points, transition offenses often resulting in fouls, both teams opting to let opponents shoot free throws.

The crowd’s enthusiasm remained high. That’s NCAA basketball for you. Connecticut fans kept cheering—they were advancing again!

Ultimately, Connecticut Huskies defeated the Eastern Michigan Eagles 74 to 65, securing a spot in the sweet sixteen once more.

After the game, Li You and his teammates waved to the enthusiastic Connecticut supporters in attendance.

Playing eighteen minutes, shooting 6 of 9 overall, including 1 of 3 from three-point range and a perfect 3 of 3 from the free-throw line, Li You finished with 16 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal, and 2 turnovers—his stats had improved slightly.

Dave Wall glanced at his colleague beside him, straightened his clothes, and quickly departed. With the draft approaching, he needed to promptly report his scouting insights to management.

The RCA Dome remained noisy at the game’s conclusion. Disappointed Eastern Michigan fans vented their frustration loudly...

Ray Allen reveled in the atmosphere but felt a twinge of anxiety at the thought that once he joined the league, he might have to play the role of a subordinate.

Dragging his feet at the last moment before entering the players’ tunnel, Ray Allen suddenly muttered softly:

“I wonder what the locker room vibe is like in the NBA. Do rookies have to carry veteran players’ bags?”

Li You hadn’t expected Ray Allen to worry about such things—after all, high draft picks received very different treatment.

“No need to worry about that at all. The team that drafts you sees you as a cornerstone.”

“We all carry our own weight on our shoulders. Everyone’s here to play and earn a living. Don’t pay attention to the old timers.”

Hearing Li You’s words, Ray Allen smiled wryly; he just needed some reassurance.

“Li, you’ll definitely succeed. God always favors those who train hard, and hard work will pay off!”

Li You smiled faintly in response, and the two quickened their pace toward the players’ tunnel.

Back in the locker room, Li You joined his teammates in celebrating. Coach Calhoun was pleased but, thinking ahead to upcoming opponents, immediately reminded them:

“Take care of your bodies. Tomorrow we move to a new venue. Don’t feel pressured—we’ve already achieved our goal this year!”