The arena buzzed with energy. Sneakers squeaked against polished hardwood, basketballs bounced rhythmically thump, thump, thump and every sound echoed through the massive gym.
Each team had their side of the court for warm-ups. Seiryō's boys were running drills layups, mid-range shots, defensive slides while the opposing team, Easton Technical High, moved like a machine. Their warm-ups weren't flashy; no dunks, no unnecessary flair. Just clean passes, sharp footwork, perfect timing.
Marcus wiped sweat from his forehead, stealing a glance at Easton's captain Sho Amakusa calm, steady, centered. Every command he gave was short, yet the whole team responded instantly. It was like watching gears move in sync.
"They're not just players," Marcus thought. "They're a system."
Across the court, Coach Rin Hazama and Coach Hikari Aoyama met at center court.
"Coach Aoyama," Rin greeted with a small bow.
"Hazama-san," Hikari replied, shaking his hand firmly. "Let's make it a good game."
