But solid basic skills make a huge difference, just like Zhang Hao's shot. Without strong shooting fundamentals, a solid turnaround fadeaway, and practiced pivot techniques, he wouldn't have been able to complete the shot in a tense moment.
After scoring, Zhang Hao retreated in defense as if nothing happened. Others who scored such a lucky shot would show some expression change, but Zhang Hao's calm demeanor easily led people to believe he had mastered this move.
For example, Ewing genuinely thought Zhang Hao had learned this trick from him because he nearly teamed up with Jordan. They had dinner together in New York, chatting about how Zhang Hao learned the turnaround fadeaway just from watching once.
As the game shifted, the Lakers quickly retreated in defense, but the Knicks' pace was much slower than the previous possession. Chales took six full seconds to dribble past half-court, while Ewing pulled to mid-range, leading Zhang Hao away.
