Chapter 32: Chapter 31: Iverson’s Blade is Unsheathed, Alex Mo Hammers the Spark!
The rain continued to pour over Washington, setting a somber yet electric mood inside the Verizon Center, where Georgetown was well on its way to securing another dominant victory. The anticipation leading up to the game had promised a thrilling showdown between Vince Carter + Antawn Jamison and the dynamic Georgetown duo of Allen Iverson + Alex Mo.
But as the first half ended, the reality painted a much different picture—Jamison's name had all but disappeared from the conversation.
Carter's Lone Battle and Jamison's Struggles
Vince Carter displayed his full offensive arsenal, adapting to Georgetown's relentless defense. Known for his high-flying dunks, he instead relied heavily on his mid-range and perimeter shooting to stay effective.
His natural shooting ability, often overlooked due to his dunking exploits, was on full display tonight. He moved off screens, hit contested jumpers, and racked up points at an impressive pace.
Meanwhile, Jamison struggled to make an impact.
Alex Mo, with his towering presence and impeccable timing, suffocated Jamison at every turn. Whether it was a weak-side block or a perfectly timed contest, Mo was an immovable wall.
Jamison, who had hoped to show his offensive versatility, was instead stuck with a miserable stat line:
3 points, 2 rebounds, and 2 assists by halftime.
In contrast, Iverson and Alex Mo were putting on a masterclass:
Iverson: 16 points, 6 assists, 3 steals Alex Mo: 22 points, 16 rebounds, 7 blocks
Georgetown held a commanding 50-31 lead at halftime, thanks to their overwhelming dual-core dominance.
ESPN Looks to the Future
With Georgetown firmly in control, the focus of the media quickly shifted to what lay ahead.
"Perhaps, Mo's real midterm exam is just around the corner," one commentator mused.
"That's right, Georgetown is all but guaranteed a spot in the Elite Eight. Their opponent? The University of Massachusetts and the NCAA's premier defensive center, Marcus Camby."
For years, Camby had been regarded as the best big man in college basketball. His defensive prowess was legendary, and he was widely expected to be the first big man taken in the NBA Draft.
The upcoming matchup between Alex Mo and Marcus Camby had the potential to be one of the most defining moments of the NCAA tournament.
"Can Alex Mo hold his own against Camby's elite shot-blocking ability?"
"Or will Camby struggle to contain Alex Mo's raw athleticism and relentless inside play?"
For the first time in years, the NCAA had a matchup that promised to rival the hype of the NBA Finals.
Second Half: Iverson and Mo Take Over
As the game resumed, Iverson unleashed his full arsenal. His lightning-quick crossovers, ankle-breaking drives, and relentless pace tore through North Carolina's defense like a blade slicing through silk.
On the other hand, Alex Mo remained a towering force, hammering down dunks and swatting away every desperate attempt by North Carolina to fight back.
Kevin Salvadori, North Carolina's 2.13-meter defensive anchor, fouled out trying to contain Alex Mo's post dominance.
He walked to the bench with his head hanging, mentally shattered by Mo's physicality.
Carter's Empty Performance
Despite Carter's 31-point explosion, it wasn't enough.
North Carolina simply couldn't match the firepower of Georgetown. The scoreboard told the story:
Georgetown 81 - North Carolina 59.
Carter sat on the bench, a towel draped over his head. Even with his best effort, he found himself part of the "Empty Scoring Club," joining Stephen Marbury as another standout player who couldn't carry his team past the Georgetown juggernaut.
Meanwhile, Jamison looked equally devastated.
He approached coach Dean Smith, a look of determination in his eyes.
"Coach, I was thinking about going pro after this year," Jamison admitted. "But after facing Alex Mo... I realize I'm not ready."
Dean Smith nodded, offering a reassuring pat on the shoulder.
"You still have a lot to learn, Antoine. This loss is a lesson, not the end."
Carter, overhearing the conversation, chimed in.
"Coach... I'm staying too. I need to be better."
The Road Ahead: The Elite Eight Awaits
As Georgetown celebrated their victory, the talk in the locker room had already shifted to their next opponent.
"Mo, the whole country is talking about you and that dude from Massachusetts," Iverson grinned, tossing a towel at Mo.
"Man, you're not gonna get shut down by Camby, right?"
Alex Mo chuckled, lacing up his shoes.
"Shut down? Please, I'm just getting started."
The anticipation for the Elite Eight was palpable.
It wasn't just about advancing to the Final Four anymore—this was about proving that Alex Mo belonged at the very top of the 1996 draft class.
The battle with Marcus Camby loomed large.
Two defensive titans. One spot in the Final Four.
And Alex Mo was ready to take his place among the greats.