Saturday morning—the day before the game against Hainan.
"Hoo… ha… hoo… ha…" Nango panted, sweat dripping down his face as he worked relentlessly in the gym, honing his physique and burning calories.
[Age: 15]
[Weight: 90KG]
[Environment: Japan High School League]
[Abilities]
[Layup: 84]
[Mid-range Shot: 81]
[Three-point Shot: 71]
[Dribbling: 87]
[Passing: 84]
[Potential (Current / Max)]
[Height: 192 / 196]
[Wingspan: 199 / 206]
[Strength: 68 / 75]
[Agility: 64 / 85]
[Speed: 70 / 85]
[Jumping: 73 / 85]
[Jump Speed: 78 / 85]
[Stamina: 75 / 90]
[Potential Points: 0]
[Bonus Gold: 0]
[Overall Rating: Ruthless against weak opponents]
After consistent daily training and consecutive games, Nango had finally pushed his speed attribute to 70—an advantage that would be critical in tomorrow's match.
He knew the opponents ahead were no longer "weaklings." Kainan would be a real challenge.
Technically, he shouldn't even be lifting weights today. The team's practice was scheduled for light exercises in the afternoon, focusing on running and shooting to maintain condition. But he couldn't calm himself.
For the first time, he felt nervous before a game. Coming early to the gym, lifting weights—it was his way of managing that tension.
Even while training, his mind wandered to strategies for tomorrow's match. Compared to Shoyo, Kainan mattered more.
Kainan Affiliated High School had dominated Kanagawa Prefecture for sixteen years, but Nango didn't care about records. One victory tomorrow would rewrite history.
One player caught his focus: Maki Shinichi.
Nango had handled previous opponents with ease, but Maki Shinichi was different. A "monster" physique beyond high school level, exceptional body control, leadership superior to Fujima's, and relentless drive—he was terrifying. Maki was truly worthy of his top-player status.
Nango refused to be intimidated. Champions faced monsters like this constantly, but preparation was key. He was already considering how to limit Maki's influence—the linchpin of Kainan's offense.
How could Shohoku respond to Maki running pick-and-rolls with Takasago? Could Takasago shoot from long range? Nango's mind buzzed with scenarios, calculating every possibility.
"Nango, if I'm not mistaken, your game against Kainan is tomorrow, right? Training this hard today?" The gym owner approached, surprised. Nango had been so focused, he hadn't noticed anyone.
The owner shook his head quietly and left him to it.
Suddenly, a small hand pat his shoulder.
He snapped out of his thoughts and looked up.
Shiny black shoes, white knee-high socks, a red-and-black plaid skirt, a neat white shirt, and short hair—Kano.
"Hehe! I knew you'd be here!" she said, squinting mischievously.
Nango put down the weights and smiled. "Oh? How did you know?"
"I called your house. Mom said you left early. Then I called Haruko, and she said your team trains in the afternoon. I guessed you'd be at the gym or court, so I came to try my luck!" Kano said proudly.
"So smart!" Nango gently flicked her little nose.
Kano rubbed it, pouting slightly, then asked, "How much longer will you train?"
"Uh… I can stop now. Let's go on a date!" Nango said, finally letting himself relax. He had been so focused on basketball that he'd forgotten about his lovely girlfriend.
Kano understood. She had seen how serious he was about basketball; discipline and dedication were part of who he was.
"By the way, afternoon practice shouldn't last long. You can wait for me nearby, then we'll continue our date. After dinner, I'll take you home," he said.
Kano hesitated. "Nango, is it okay for me to come? Won't I distract you?"
Nango squeezed her small hand. "Don't worry. Haruko, her best friend, and Rukawa Kaede's fan club already come to watch practice. You won't be a problem."
Kano twisted shyly. "Mmm… but I'm still a little embarrassed…"
"No need. Let's buy some drinks and bring them over. Then they won't say a word," Nango suggested.
"Okay, I'll trust you!" Kano said, holding his arm tightly, obedient and happy.
The two ate and shopped along the way, teasing each other and carrying things to afternoon practice. Even with some gentle teasing from teammates, everyone was kind and supportive.
After a full day, Nango walked Kano to her doorstep. They hugged, reluctant to part.
"Nango, good luck tomorrow!" Kano's big eyes sparkled, bright like a galaxy.
Nango grinned and ruffled her head. "Of course, little fool! I will definitely win tomorrow."
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A/N: Got cold so 1 chapter for now, sorry