The gym was too loud for eight in the morning. Sneakers squeaked on the polished hardwood floor, basketballs thumped rhythmically, and people shouted out plays.
The team had gathered for their pre-festival match practice, and Coach Yamada stood at center court with his clipboard, whistle hanging from his neck.
Akira was stretching near the free-throw line when Coach called everyone in.
"Alright, listen up!" Coach's voice cut through the noise. "Today's exhibition match against Shibuya High is more than just a warm-up game. They're well-funded, aggressive, and they play dirty when the refs aren't looking. We need to be smart and disciplined."
He started calling out defensive matchups, assigning guards to forwards, centers to their counterparts. Akira listened carefully, noting who he'd be covering.
Then something odd happened.
"Kenji," Coach said, looking at his clipboard. "You'll take their shooting guard. Keep tight on…"
