Just as Shidou Ryusei boarded the plane, he sent a message to Kise Ryota: "Don't you dare lose!"
At the same time, in America, Nash Gold Jr. received another message: "I've boarded!"
…After 15 hours, the plane finally landed in Los Angeles.
Shidou had just picked up his luggage when he spotted Nash.
"Hey, bro! How've you been?"
Nash grabbed his bag and hugged him.
"Of course! Long time no see!"
"Let's go. Everything's ready."
---
Shidou first greeted Aunt Masako and gave her and Uncle William the gifts Chizuru prepared. Adams was still at school, so they couldn't meet.
After explaining his purpose, Shidou followed Nash to the club.
"Rest today. I'll tell you about the match tomorrow."
After such a long flight, Shidou was exhausted and agreed immediately.
---
The next morning, Shidou went to the gym. It was empty, so he walked around to get familiar again.
Then he noticed a jersey hanging above the hoop—black with brown-green trim, number 12.
A smile appeared on his face. He jumped and pulled it down.
Bang! Confetti rained from above.
"Hey! My brother, you're finally here!" Jason Silver pulled him into a hug.
Nash and the others clapped.
"Welcome back, Shidou!"
Shidou sighed. "You guys… seriously."
"So, do you like the surprise?" Jason laughed.
Shidou dragged his voice. "It's… too lame."
Everyone scoffed. "Tch!"
He put on the jersey—it fit perfectly.
---
After dinner, Nash coughed meaningfully. Jason nodded.
"Little Shidou… let's move a bit."
Shidou's eyes lit up. "I've been waiting for that!"
"3v3?" Nash said.
"No problem."
Teams were split quickly.
Shidou noticed Nash's plan immediately—this was a test.
---
Before starting, Shidou removed his weights.
Nash frowned. "You wear those all the time? That can damage your body, especially while you're still growing."
Shidou nodded, finally understanding why he sometimes felt off.
---
The match started.
Zack attacked first and scored a floater.
Next possession, Shidou dunked instantly.
The atmosphere became tense.
Then Nash stepped in.
He dribbled slowly, eyes shining strangely.
Shidou recognized it at once—Nash's terrifying ability.
Nash broke through at insane speed… but suddenly stopped.
Shidou had predicted the move and blocked the path perfectly.
Nash froze.
Shidou raised his head—and Nash saw the same golden ring in Shidou's eyes.
Nash's shock turned into excitement.
"Interesting… very interesting!"
Shidou stole the ball and rushed forward—
Clang! One-handed windmill dunk.
Everyone in the gym stood there speechless.
Nash just laughed, thrilled.