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The No.1 Anti-Fans in Basketball-Chapter 502 - 251: Grizzlies Dynasty!_3
Chapter 502: Chapter 251: Grizzlies Dynasty!_3
"This has been an incredibly amazing journey," Hansen began, his speech destined to be lengthy, for it was his farewell to the Grizzlies. "When I arrived in Memphis four years ago, no one could have imagined that we would create a Dynasty."
Hansen’s speech was bound to be long because it marked the end of his career with the Grizzlies.
"I want to thank Chris Wallace for bringing me to this team," he continued. "As it turns out, it was one of the greatest trades in NBA history."
Wallace’s face turned red upon hearing this. Although the statement was true, it took on a whole new meaning coming from Hansen’s lips.
"I also want to thank Lionel Hollins. Even though he didn’t see it through to the end with us, he shaped our defensive system, the foundation of our repeated success."
Despite past conflicts, Hansen was fair, not diminishing the contributions of Hollins.
Hollins probably never expected Hansen to mention him on such an occasion.
"And of course, I have to thank Dave Joerger even more. He is the one who enabled us to fully realize our potential, embarking on this extraordinary journey. If there ever was a vote for the best coach in history, my vote would go to him."
Joerger laughed out loud. To be carried by his team and still be praised, he didn’t know if he was the best coach in history, but he was certainly the luckiest.
"I also want to thank Reggie Tois. Perhaps not too many people know that he was my head coach at Barry University."
As Hansen said this, there indeed was an audible gasp from the audience because this was in Miami. Apart from die-hard Grizzlies fans, not many would pay attention to the identity of an assistant coach, especially one who kept a low profile.
"He gave me a stage to showcase my talents in the NCAA. He is my Dean Smith."
At this moment, Tois reminisced about that night when Hansen stayed late to practice, the night he went to Hansen and expressed his support, which turned out to be the greatest decision of his life.
After thanking the coaching staff, Hansen then looked toward his teammates.
His feelings were somewhat complicated now because he still wanted to fight alongside these fellows.
He thanked each Grizzlies teammate, as if performing a farewell ritual.
The fans weren’t aware of what Hansen was doing and took it as a genuine outpouring of emotion.
But many of the Grizzlies players couldn’t help but have tearful eyes.
Guy even started crying outright.
The Grizzlies team was truly unique, not just because as a small-market team they had created a Dynasty, but also because their roster hadn’t changed over four years.
In other words, their journey was much like the Bulls’ second Dynasty, experiencing all the difficulties a Dynasty would face.
From internal team development to becoming a powerhouse, from falling in the Western Conference Finals to an ultimate comeback, from a powerful championship win to the loss of drive, from a hopeless Dynasty to a triumphant success.
Mixed within were conflicts, desires, sacrifices, and yearnings...
This group ultimately overcame these daunting obstacles and finally reached the far shore of success. freeweɓnovēl.coɱ
They might part ways, but this would forever be the most unforgettable experience of their lives.
"Lastly, I want to thank all the fans who supported us. Although I don’t know each of your names, this journey wouldn’t have been possible without you. No matter what the future holds, I will always love you," he concluded.
Amidst the cheers of the fans in attendance, Hansen ended his speech.
And just then, confetti shot through the air, and cheers of "MVP" filled the stadium.
Hansen put down the microphone in his hand and closed his eyes, savoring the moment.
Because of the fever and standing for a long time, beads of sweat as large as beans burst out on his forehead.
This moment was captured by photographers, marking the most touching moment of the Grizzlies Dynasty.