Under the spotlight, two days later, Game 6 of the series between the Grizzlies and the Lakers kicked off in Memphis.
The FedEx Forum was at maximum capacity, with the fans raising various conspicuous signs.
"No fair game if you don't blow the whistle properly," "Those who rig the game won't leave Memphis intact," "We know your names"...
Although some fan signs were removed by the security personnel due to their blatant messages, Memphis's violent element was on full display that night.
Many had forgotten just how chaotic this city could be.
And during the opening ceremony, it wasn't just the referees that faced the jeers of the home crowd; even the Lakers were met with boos.
While the referees blew the whistles, the Lakers were the beneficiaries.
After the opening ceremony, the starting lineups for both teams were announced, unchanged from previous games.
But as the players entered the court, their expressions were solemn, and the atmosphere was tense.
