NBA: Built to Dominate

Georgetown University Campus

The buzz surrounding Georgetown's victory over North Carolina in their preseason warm-up game had barely reached beyond local circles. While the game had been a showcase of Alex Mo's dominance, it wasn't the kind of event to spark a nationwide discussion At least not in 1995.

There was no social media to spread highlight reels, and major sports networks barely acknowledged preseason college games. But one outlet, The Washington Post, had taken notice.

In their NCAA season preview, the local newspaper named Alex Mo as one of the top 10 most anticipated newcomers for the upcoming season, praising his explosive performance and potential.

Recognition from the Local Press

Allen Iverson strolled into the campus arena, a rolled-up copy of The Washington Post in hand. Spotting Alex on the court, he called out, "Yo, Alex! Look at this!"

He waved the newspaper triumphantly. "They've got you listed as one of the top 10 most anticipated players this season."

Alex raised an eyebrow as Iverson handed him the paper. The headline read:

"Georgetown's Rising Star: Alex Mo Breaks Onto the Scene."

Beneath it was a glowing write-up about his dominance against North Carolina, calling him a "force to watch" and praising his ability to control both ends of the court.

Other Rankings Ignore Alex

Despite The Washington Post's recognition, Alex's name was nowhere to be found in the more prominent rankings released by national media outlets.

Sports Illustrated crowned Allen Iverson as the most anticipated player of the year, followed by Tim Duncan and Marcus Camby. Their list of the top 10 newcomers included high-profile names like Vince Carter, Stephon Marbury, and Sharif Abdur-Rahim—but Alex was nowhere in sight.

Jerome Williams, sitting nearby with a copy of The New York Times, groaned. "This is ridiculous. You destroyed Vince Carter and Antawn Jamison, and they're still getting all the hype!"

Alex shrugged. "Let them talk. It doesn't matter to me."

Iverson smirked, tossing The New York Times aside. "Don't worry, Alex. Once the season starts, they won't be able to ignore you. We're going to shock the whole country."

Coach Thompson's Strategy

As the players chatted, Coach John Thompson walked into the arena, clipboard in hand. His authoritative voice cut through the conversation.

"Allen, Jerome, stop talking and get changed. We've got training to do," he said, turning to Alex. "Mo, stay for a moment. I need to discuss something with you."

The other players shuffled off, leaving Alex alone with Thompson.

"Mo," the coach began, "our first opponent this season is St. John's University. They've got a strong perimeter defense and are going to focus on shutting Allen down."

Alex nodded, listening intently.

"But here's the thing," Thompson continued. "Their inside defense is weak, and their tallest player is only 6'9" (about 2.05 meters). I need you to dominate the paint. If we can establish an inside presence early, it'll take the pressure off Allen and open up opportunities for everyone else."

The coach's voice grew firm. "I'm building the game plan around you for this opener. You'll be the team's tactical centerpiece. Can you handle that?"

Alex didn't hesitate. "Coach, you can count on me."

Thompson smiled, clapping Alex on the shoulder. "Good. Now let's get to work."

Preparation for the Opener

As the team practiced, Alex's mind raced with thoughts of the upcoming game. He had always thrived under pressure, and this was his chance to prove to the national audience what he was capable of.

He thought back to the rankings that had excluded him. The national media might not see him as a star yet, but by the end of the season, he was determined to change that.

On the court, Allen Iverson jogged over, grinning. "You ready to carry us, big guy?"

Alex smirked. "You'll see. When we're done, those rankings won't matter anymore."

Looking Ahead

With the season opener against St. John's looming, Georgetown was gearing up for what they hoped would be a championship run. The combination of Iverson's explosive scoring and Alex's dominance in the paint gave them a lethal inside-out game that few teams could match.

As Alex stood at center court, surrounded by his teammates, one thought echoed in his mind:

It's time to show the world who I am.