Rebound of the Shadow Prodigy

Chapter 11: Ch 11 - A New Challenge



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The rhythmic thud of basketballs bouncing against the polished gym floor began to taper off as Coach Brooks' commanding clap cut through the air.

Players, drenched in sweat and panting from the day's grueling drills, hustled over to the bench, their sneakers squeaking against the glossy surface.

Though the exhaustion was evident on their flushed faces, the coach's expression—a rare mix of stern resolve and barely contained excitement—seized their attention.

"Alright, everyone, bring it in!" Brooks bellowed, pacing back and forth with an energy that seemed to buzz in the humid gym air. His gaze scanned the huddle of players, all of whom shared the same curiosity as they jostled closer to hear what he had to say. Even Ryan, their cocky, ever-composed team captain, leaned in, sensing this wasn't the usual end-of-practice pep talk.

The coach paused, folding his arms, his eyes glittering like he held the world's best-kept secret. He let the silence hang for a moment, the suspense thick enough to drown in. A few players shifted on their feet; one even wiped his sweaty palms on his jersey.

Then Brooks spoke, his voice booming. "I've got news—big news. Bigger than anything we've had this season!"

The room seemed to inhale collectively, the atmosphere charging with anticipation. Whispers broke out among the team like a ripple in still water.

Ryan shot a glance at his best friend, Mark, raising an eyebrow as if to say, This better be good.

Coach Brooks smirked at their reaction, a knowing glint in his eyes.

"In two weeks—" He paused dramatically, taking his time to savor the tension "—we'll be facing Lakeside High in a practice match!"

The gym erupted in chaos.

"Lakeside?! Are you kidding me?" Someone gasped, their voice echoing in disbelief.

"Whoa! They're ranked in the state!" Another player blurted, his voice cracking mid-sentence.

"They've got Henderson!" Mark shouted, his usually deep voice high with shock. "That guy dunked over three people in the last game! He's a beast!"

The mere mention of Lakeside High brought a surge of adrenaline. Their reputation was undeniable—they were titans in the state, known for demolishing even their strongest rivals. Every player in the gym knew the kind of firepower Lakeside brought to the court, and it wasn't just their star players like Henderson—it was their relentless, well-oiled teamwork. 

Coach Brooks raised a hand, commanding silence again, but his own voice was electric now, matching the energy in the room. "Yes, Lakeside High! They're one of the best. But guess what? This isn't just about facing them—it's about proving ourselves."

His voice grew louder, sharper, cutting through the buzz of murmurs. "I believe in this team, and I want to see what you're made of. You want to show people we're not just another name on the schedule? This is your chance!"

Ryan clenched his fists, the initial shock giving way to steely determination.

"Hell yeah!" He muttered, his competitive edge igniting. Around him, heads started to nod, nervous expressions shifting into ones of resolve. A wave of something unspoken passed through the huddle—a spark of pride, defiance, and the dawning realization that they wanted this.

No—needed this.

Brooks grinned at the sight.

"We've got work to do," He said, his tone serious, but his enthusiasm undeniable. "Lakeside might think this is an easy win for them, but they're about to see what we're capable of. So rest up tonight, because starting tomorrow..."

He paused again, leaning forward for the dramatic finish, "We're pushing harder than ever. Every sprint, every drill—it's for this match. Got it?"

"Got it!" the team roared back, their collective shout echoing like a war cry through the gym.

The exhaustion was forgotten; the sweat was a badge of honor. This wasn't just practice anymore. It was preparation for battle.

For the first time in weeks, no one complained about sore muscles or bruises. The gym felt alive, charged with an energy only rivalries and ambition could create.

Coach Brooks lingered, watching as his team jogged toward the locker room with a renewed fire in their steps. A small, knowing smile tugged at his lips.

They're ready for this, He thought. They just don't know it yet.

----

"No freaking way!" Jen exclaimed, her eyes wide with excitement. "Lakeside? They're the strongest around here!" 

"Legends or not, we'll take them down," Ryan said, cracking his knuckles with a grin. "Finally, a chance to prove we've got what it takes." 

Behind them, Sofia adjusted her headband and sighed. "They're not just any team, though. Their coordination is insane. If we don't sharpen up, they'll pick us apart." 

Marcus leaned back against the bench, his expression uncertain. "Man, Lakeside's center is huge. I mean, I'm tall, but that dude's like a human skyscraper." 

"Size doesn't matter," Kaito said calmly from his spot leaning against the wall. His voice, steady and composed, cut through the chatter. "Speed and precision beat size every time." 

The team turned toward him, the newer members still adjusting to Kaito's composed presence and sharp insights.

Among them, Amir raised an eyebrow. "You talk a good game, Kaito, but let's see you back that up when it counts." 

----

Brooks clapped his hands again to quiet the room. 

"Alright, listen up!" He barked. "Lakeside High isn't just another team—they're a damn machine. Their players know each other's moves so well, that they're practically reading each other's minds. They've got speed, defense, and an offense sharper than a razor." 

Brooks began pointing to names and stats listed on his clipboard. "Their star point guard, Xavier Jones, is already getting scouted for Division 1 colleges. Their center? Elliot Carter, nicknamed 'The Tower'—and you'll see why when we face him." 

The air grew heavier with each name he listed. Even Jen, ever confident, seemed momentarily rattled. "So, what's the plan, Coach?" 

"We're going to sharpen everyone's roles," Brooks said firmly. "Jen, you'll need to dictate the pace like never before. Amir, expect heavy pressure from Xavier, so your shooting has to be precise. Marcus, this game isn't just about size—it's about positioning. If you box out and hold your ground, you can keep Elliot off balance." 

"And me?" Kaito asked, his voice steady. 

The room quieted again as all eyes turned toward him. 

Brooks smirked. "You're our wild card. Xavier won't know how to handle your moves, and Elliot won't expect you to disrupt his rhythm. We'll use your adaptability to exploit their weaknesses." 

After the meeting, the team dispersed to the sidelines, discussing the match among themselves. 

"I don't know about you guys," Sofia said, adjusting her water bottle on the bench, "but I'm nervous. Lakeside's players are basically celebrities." 

Amir leaned back, tossing a basketball into the air. "Relax, Sofia. They're just guys with jerseys. They bleed like the rest of us." 

Jen joined in, placing a hand on Sofia's shoulder. "He's got a point. Besides, we've got a secret weapon."

She gestured toward Kaito, who was silently stretching. 

Ryan crossed his arms, his expression thoughtful. "Kaito's good, no doubt, but Lakeside isn't just about one-on-ones. Can he handle working with the rest of us?" 

"Let's ask him," Jen said, walking over to Kaito. "Alright, Kaito, what's your take on all this?" 

Kaito stood, finishing his stretches, and glanced at the team. "It's simple. We've got two weeks. We either focus and work together, or we lose. Lakeside isn't invincible. They have weaknesses like anyone else—we just have to exploit them." 

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