NBA: Built to Dominate

Washington, D.C.

Allen Iverson's postgame declaration made waves, becoming the headline slogan for both The Washington Post and The Washington Times. Interestingly, both newspapers chose the same image for their covers: Alex Mo soaring through the air to block Ray Allen's shot.

It was more than just a block—it was a defining moment.

The Washington Post also updated its NCAA newcomer rankings for the 1995–96 season. Alex Mo, who had only recently begun to attract attention, skyrocketed to the TOP 1 spot, surpassing Vince Carter, Antawn Jamison, and other highly-touted freshmen.

Other major outlets, including the New York Daily News and Los Angeles Times, followed suit, ranking Alex No. 2, just behind Carter. The New York Daily News even ran a close-up of Alex mid-air with the headline:

"Georgetown's Celestial Monster Breaks Free!"

NBA Teams Take Notice

Alex's meteoric rise didn't go unnoticed by the NBA. Scouts from various teams, including the Toronto Raptors, Vancouver Grizzlies, and Washington Bullets, were dispatched to Georgetown University.

While most teams were officially there to evaluate Iverson, it was clear that Alex Mo had become the second most sought-after player in college basketball.

The Bullets, in particular, were intrigued. Their frontcourt duo of Chris Webber and Juwan Howard lacked height, and Alex seemed like the perfect solution.

Christmas Eve Plans

December 24th rolled around, and Georgetown's campus began to empty as students left for the holiday break.

Alex, with family out of the country right now, planned to spend the evening training in the gym. But Allen Iverson had other ideas.

"Christmas Eve, and you're staying in the gym?" Iverson asked, dragging Alex off campus. "Man, that's not happening. You're with me now."

Alex hesitated. "I'm not big on holidays. They're just another day for me."

Iverson shook his head. "Not this year. You're spending Christmas with me, and that's final."

Welcome to New York

Iverson wasn't about to settle for a quiet Christmas Eve in Washington. Using part of his full scholarship money, he bought tickets to New York, dragging Alex along for the ride.

The bustling streets of Manhattan were alive with holiday cheer, and as the duo walked through the city, Iverson's star power quickly became evident.

"Allen! Can I get an autograph?"

"Iverson! I'm your biggest fan!"

"I love your crossover, Allen!"

Even in New York, Iverson was a celebrity.

But the crowd's attention soon shifted.

"Wait… you're Alex Mo, right? The guy from Georgetown?"

A blonde woman approached Alex with a camera, her friends following close behind.

"You're even more handsome in person!" she gushed. "Can we take a picture with you?"

A Sudden Shift

As Alex was swarmed by female fans, Iverson's smile faltered.

"Why don't i have female fans like that?" he muttered under his breath.

Eventually, one woman approached Iverson. "Allen, can I get a picture with you?"

Before he could answer, Alex stepped in. "I'll take it for you."

Alex's easygoing nature won him even more admiration. "He's not just talented; he's nice, too!" one woman whispered to her friend.

As the fans dispersed, Iverson turned to Alex with mock annoyance. "Man, I'm starting to regret bringing you along. You're stealing all the attention!"

The Spirit of Giving

The playful banter continued as they explored the city. Iverson led Alex into high-end stores, insisting they shop for Christmas gifts.

"Christmas is about giving, man," Iverson said, patting Alex on the shoulder. "I'm even planning to get you something."

"Really?" Alex asked, surprised.

"Of course!" Iverson grinned. "But listen, when you make it to the NBA and start raking in millions, you owe me a huge Christmas gift."

Alex chuckled. "Deal. Just don't forget who'll be setting you up for those highlights in the NBA."

A Night to Remember

The night ended with the two of them laughing over pizza in a small corner restaurant, Iverson recounting stories of his high school days and Alex chiming in with his own.

It was a Christmas Eve unlike any Alex had ever experienced. For the first time since arriving in the U.S., he felt a sense of belonging.