NBA: Built to Dominate

Chapter 16: Chapter 16: Flying High, Blocking Legends



United States, Washington – Verizon Center Arena

Allen Iverson was in his element during the pregame media session. His confidence, as usual, was unshakable.

"I don't think Alex Mo should be ranked 32nd," Iverson declared, referring to the Sports Illustrated rookie projections. "He's at least lottery level. No question."

When a reporter mentioned Connecticut star Ray Allen, who had climbed to fourth on the list, Iverson didn't hesitate.

"I don't think he's that good," Iverson said bluntly. "Next question."

The fiery exchanges between the team leaders set the stage for an intense showdown.

The Game Begins

Both teams stepped onto the court with clear game plans. Georgetown's starting lineup featured Iverson, Alex Mo, Jerome Williams, and two solid role players, while Connecticut leaned heavily on Ray Allen and point guard Kevin Ollie to drive their offense.

The jump ball was no contest. Alex Mo won easily, tipping the ball to Iverson, who immediately looked upcourt.

Connecticut's Defense Adjusts

Kevin Ollie, Connecticut's defensive ace, pressed Iverson full court, cutting off his passing lanes and forcing him to burn energy early. This denied Georgetown their signature opening quarterback pass to Alex Mo, a tactic they'd used successfully all season.

On the sideline, Connecticut coach Jim Calhoun nodded in approval. His strategy was working—for now.

Iverson, unfazed, brought the ball across half-court. With a quick crossover and a burst of speed, he blew past Ollie and floated a shot toward the rim.

Clang!

The ball bounced off the back iron, but Alex Mo was already there. Muscling through Connecticut's center, he tipped the ball back into the basket with authority.

"2–0! Georgetown strikes first!"

Ray Allen's Counterattack

Connecticut wasted no time. Kevin Ollie directed traffic from the top of the key, signaling for Ray Allen to run through screens.

Allen darted around his teammates, shaking off multiple defenders in textbook fashion. Finally, he found himself wide open on the perimeter and called for the ball.

The pass came. Allen caught it in rhythm, his shooting form picture-perfect.

But as he rose to shoot, a shadow loomed over him.

A Block for the Ages

Alex Mo, seemingly appearing out of nowhere, soared through the air. His long arms stretched to their full wingspan as he closed the gap.

Ray Allen realized too late—there was no escape.

As the ball left his fingertips, Alex swatted it out of the air with ferocity, sending it flying into the stands.

"OH MY GOD!"

The crowd erupted as the commentators struggled to process what they had just witnessed.

"Did Alex Mo just wait in midair for Ray Allen's shot and block it?"

"That's not just defense—that's supernatural!"

"This is unreal. Alex completely anticipated Allen's move and executed perfectly!"

Ray Allen's flawless execution—his off-ball movement, his catch, his release—was undone by Alex's sheer athleticism.

Georgetown's Momentum

Georgetown fed off Alex's energy. Iverson, Williams, and the rest of the team rallied around their big man, pushing the pace and increasing their defensive intensity.

On the sideline, Coach John Thompson kept his expression calm, though his heart swelled with pride. Alex Mo wasn't just meeting expectations—he was exceeding them.

Across the court, Connecticut's Coach Calhoun looked visibly rattled. Ray Allen, his team's offensive centerpiece, had been neutralized in dramatic fashion.

Iverson and Mo Take Over

As the game progressed, Iverson and Alex continued to dominate. Iverson's agility and vision tore through Connecticut's defense, while Alex's presence in the paint stifled their offense.

Every block, rebound, and dunk from Alex brought the crowd to their feet. His towering athleticism and relentless energy made it clear: Georgetown had the best player on the floor.

The Turning Point

Midway through the second half, Connecticut tried to regain momentum. Kevin Ollie drove into the paint, looking for an open man, but Alex Mo swatted his pass into the hands of Iverson.

Iverson sprinted upcourt, lobbed the ball high toward the rim, and Alex, flying in like a jet, slammed it home with a thunderous dunk.

"BOOM!"

The arena exploded. Georgetown's bench erupted, towels waving in celebration.

Postgame Reflections

As the final buzzer sounded, Georgetown secured a decisive victory over Connecticut.

Ray Allen, usually stoic, looked visibly frustrated. Despite his best efforts, he had been outclassed.

In the postgame locker room, Iverson couldn't contain his excitement. "Did you see that block on Allen?" he exclaimed, shaking Alex's shoulder. "Man, you're a freak!"

Alex chuckled. "Just doing my job."

The Coach's Confidence

Later, Coach Thompson pulled Alex aside. "You've exceeded every expectation I've had for you," he said. "But don't let this get to your head. The season's long, and the NCAA Championship is the real goal."

Alex nodded, his expression serious. "I'll be ready, Coach."

The Legend Grows

By the next morning, the highlight of Alex's block on Ray Allen was making rounds on sports networks. Analysts debated whether Alex Mo deserved to move up the rookie draft rankings.

As Georgetown's season continued, one thing was clear: Alex Mo wasn't just a rising star—he was a force to be reckoned with.


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