The 2017 championship earned Yu Fei the eleventh title of his professional career.
This brought him into the exclusive eleven-title club, a distinction held by Bill Russell for nearly half a century.
Undoubtedly, it was a symbolic moment.
Moreover, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to end his journey.
The Clippers won three consecutive championships, establishing a dynasty, while Yu Fei was closing in on 35 years of age. As he had often said over the years, he was likely to retire this year, just like Jordan did in 1998.
"Stay or go, I will announce my final decision at the end of the month during the award ceremony."
Yu Fei gave a definite time point.
Before that, the 2017 NBA Draft was scheduled as usual.
