July 2, 2010
Ethan Albarado stood on the sidelines of the gym at Oak Hill Academy, in Mouth of Wilson, Virginia, where the exhibition game was set to take place. The gym buzzed with anticipation as the crowd slowly filled the bleachers, eager to see the match between the local favorite team, Vorpal Basket, and the visiting Orlando Hoops.
Ethan glanced at his teammates warming up on the court. Despite their good looks and confidence, he knew their skills were, at best, average.
"Seems like Lucas Graves is still not here." Ethan thought, wondering about the Protagonist of the story
Ethan then turned his attention inward, communicating with the system in his mind. "System, can you analyze their status?"
The system responded promptly, bringing up detailed information about each player:
Evan Cooper (Point Guard)
Level: Slightly Above Average
Core Attributes
[Offensive Attributes:]
Shooting Accuracy: 7
Layup Skill: 7
Dunk Skill: 5
Dribbling Skill: 8
Passing Skill: 8
[Defensive Attributes:]
Defense: 7
Blocking Ability: 5
Steal Skill: 7
[Physical Attributes:]
Stamina: 7
Endurance: 7
Speed: 7
Skills:
Basic Ball Handling: Foundation for controlling the ball under pressure, useful for setting up plays.
Basic Court Vision: Developing the ability to read the game and make strategic passes.
Basic Decision-Making: Working on making quicker and better choices during gameplay.
.......
Josh Turner (Shooting Guard)
Level: Average
Core Attributes
[Offensive Attributes:]
Shooting Accuracy: 6
Layup Skill: 5
Dunk Skill: 4
Dribbling Skill: 5
Passing Skill: 5
[Defensive Attributes:]
Defense: 6
Blocking Ability: 5
Steal Skill: 6
[Physical Attributes:]
Stamina: 6
Endurance: 6
Speed: 6
Skills:
Basic Shooting Form: Average shooting mechanics with potential for improvement.
Basic Scoring Instinct: Lacks instinct for creating scoring opportunities, struggles with shot selection. but with room for growth.
Basic Defensive Awareness: Often out of position on defense, slow to react but can improve reaction time.
......
Aiden White (Small Forward)
Level: Average
Core Attributes
[Offensive Attributes:]
Shooting Accuracy: 6
Layup Skill: 6
Dunk Skill: 6
Dribbling Skill: 6
Passing Skill: 6
[Defensive Attributes:]
Defense: 6
Blocking Ability: 6
Steal Skill: 6
[Physical Attributes:]
Stamina: 6
Endurance: 6
Speed: 6
Skills:
Basic Athleticism: Shows good natural athletic ability but needs to refine consistency.
Basic Versatility: Can play multiple positions, but lacks effectiveness in any specific role.
Basic Consistency: Performance fluctuates, struggles to maintain a steady level of play. But has areas for improvement.
.......
Ryan Taylor (Power Forward)
Level: Average
Core Attributes
[Offensive Attributes:]
Shooting Accuracy: 5
Layup Skill: 6
Dunk Skill: 5
Dribbling Skill: 4
Passing Skill: 5
[Defensive Attributes:]
Defense: 7
Blocking Ability: 7
Steal Skill: 6
[Physical Attributes:]
Stamina: 7
Endurance: 7
Speed: 6
Skills:
Basic Post Moves: Very limited scoring moves in the post, needs significant development.
Basic Rebounding: Average skills in securing rebounds with room for improvement.
Basic Hustle: Puts in effort, but often lacks the skills to capitalize on opportunities.
........
Brandon Young (Center)
Level: Average
Core Attributes
[Offensive Attributes:]
Shooting Accuracy: 5
Layup Skill: 6
Dunk Skill: 6
Dribbling Skill: 3
Passing Skill: 4
[Defensive Attributes:]
Defense: 7
Blocking Ability: 8
Steal Skill: 5
[Physical Attributes:]
Stamina: 7
Endurance: 6
Speed: 5
Basic Rebounding: Average skills in securing rebounds, often out-muscled by opponents.
Basic Shot-Blocking: Limited shot-blocking ability, needs to work on timing and positioning.
Basic Post Defense: Struggles with defending against stronger, more skilled players.
As Ethan reviewed the stats, he noted the strengths and weaknesses of each player. Despite their flaws, they had potential, and with the right guidance and training, they could improve. However, Ethan couldn't help but feel the pressure mounting. The upcoming game against Orlando Hoops, a team known for its talented roster, was going to be a tough challenge.
"(Our team is weak, but there's definitely room for improvement.)" he thought. He couldn't help but feel a bit concerned about their chances against a stronger opponent like Orlando Hoops.
The clock ticked closer to game time, and Ethan continued to survey the gym. He knew Lucas would arrive soon —after all, he was the protagonist of this world.
Still, Ethan was resolute; he didn't plan on losing this game just because it was written in the novel.
"But they still lose," Ethan thought, "and I don't intend to let that happen. No matter what the story says, we're going to win."
Until Lucas arrived, Ethan resolved to make the most of his own skills and the system's support. He was determined to use every advantage he had to turn the game around and secure a victory for his team.
As the teams prepared to face off, the tension in the air was palpable. The game promised to be a defining moment for Vorpal Basket, and Ethan was ready to rise to the occasion, even if it meant starting from the sidelines as the "water boy."
.........
Lucas Graves, already running behind schedule, rushed through his front door, clutching his bag tightly. His jersey and school uniform jostled inside as he dashed down the street towards the bus stop.
"I'm such an idiot," Lucas muttered, frustration evident in his voice. "I should've planned better. Now I'm going to miss part of the exhibition."
As he reached the bus stop, Lucas scanned the area, hoping he hadn't missed the bus. To his relief, he saw the bus pulling up in the distance. He sprinted towards it, heart pounding, and jumped on just as the doors were closing.
Lucas found an empty seat and sat down, trying to catch his breath. His mind raced with thoughts about the game and the pressure of arriving late. He took a deep breath, trying to calm his nerves.
"Alright, Lucas, just stay focused," he said quietly to himself. "You're not just going to the game; you've got to make an impact."
The bus ride seemed to take forever, and Lucas mentally prepared himself for the challenge ahead. He reviewed his recent practice and the skills he had been developing, trying to shake off the anxiety of being late.
Finally, the bus arrived at Oak Hill Academy. Lucas hurried off and made his way to the gym. As he approached, he could hear the buzz of excitement and the sound of basketballs bouncing on the court.
"Here we go." Lucas said, trying to muster a confident smile as he entered the gym.
.........
As Lucas Graves approached the gymnasium of Oak Hill Academy, the echo of basketballs bouncing and the murmur of excited voices filled the air. He navigated through the bustling corridor, finally reaching the locker room where his teammates were preparing. The faint scent of sweat and the sharp tang of freshly polished wooden floors greeted him as he entered.
Lucas found a spot in the corner and started changing into his uniform. His movements were hurried but deliberate as he pulled on his jersey and adjusted his shorts. The hustle and bustle of the pre-game routine surrounded him—players chatting, stretching, and going through their final drills.
From across the room, Ethan Albarado stood by a bench, watching the team get ready. He saw Lucas Graves, the main character of the novel, and focused on him. Ethan was in his dark blue Vorpal Basket uniform with red and white trim, standing out against the dark locker room. He had noticed Lucas's arrival and was eager to connect with him.
Ethan walked over to Lucas with purpose. His footsteps were steady and confident, making a slight echo in the busy locker room. While other players went about their routines, Ethan's approach was clear and intentional.
"Wass up, mate?" Ethan said, his voice carrying a friendly tone as he came to a stop beside Lucas. The casual greeting was accompanied by a warm smile, designed to break the ice.
Lucas looked up from his locker, momentarily surprised by the sudden appearance of Ethan. He blinked, trying to place the familiar face amidst the pre-game chaos. A flicker of recognition crossed his features as he processed Ethan's words.
"Hello, Ethan." Lucas responded with a polite smile, his voice friendly but slightly guarded. He continued to pull on his jersey, the fabric rustling as he moved.
Ethan chuckled softly. "You know me?"
Lucas nodded, the smile on his face widening slightly. "We might not have interacted much, but I know your name. It was mentioned by the coach during our practice sessions."
Ethan's face brightened with recognition. "AHAHAHA yeah yeah, I remember now." he said with a laugh, trying to make light of the situation.
As Ethan observed Lucas, he noted the kindheartedness in Lucas's demeanor. Despite the rush and pressure of the pre-game environment, Lucas's smile was genuine, reflecting his positive attitude. Ethan thought to himself, "Now that I recall Ethan's memories, even though Lucas and I were both bench players and water boys, we never really interacted until now. Lucas remembering my name because the coach mentioned it—despite his serious face, he's a kind-hearted person with a never-lose-hope attitude."
The locker room was abuzz with the final preparations before the game. Players were preparing with focused energy: some were talking excitedly, while others were concentrating quietly. The room was filled with the sounds of chatter, shouts of encouragement, and the steady thud of sneakers against the floor, all contributing to the energetic atmosphere.
..........
Ethan Albarado's POV
The locker room buzzed with anticipation as the team prepared for the game. The air was thick with the scent of sweat and the faint whiff of fresh sneakers. Players moved around the room, some joking to lighten the mood, others lacing up their shoes in focused silence. The room was a blend of metal lockers, benches, and the soft hum of fluorescent lights, casting a stark glow over the scene.
I stood next to Lucas Graves, who was finishing changing into his jersey. He looked pumped, a mix of excitement and determination on his face. The noise and energy around us were almost palpable, a mix of nervous chatter and the rustling of uniforms.
So, here we are in the locker room, and I find myself talking with Lucas Graves, the protagonist of this story. It's surreal, really. I can't believe I'm interacting with him.
Lucas turned to me, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "You know, I'm really excited about this game."
I nodded, still trying to wrap my head around the situation. "Yeah, me too. But, you know, we're just water boys... bench players." I said it with a hint of curiosity, wondering how he would respond.
Lucas smiled, a determined glint in his eyes. "Well, even though I'm a bench player, I still won't give up. I love playing basketball, and besides, we always get subbed in every 3rd quarter."
His optimism made me smile. As expected of Lucas Graves, the protagonist of this story, I thought. "(Well, You are the only one who always get subbed in 3rd quarter but still ... I won't give up either. This time, I won't live with regret.)"
I looked at Lucas, feeling a strange sense of camaraderie. "Damn right," I said, grinning. "And who knows? Maybe they'll sub us in early."
I couldn't help but think about what I knew from the story. In the 2nd quarter, two of the starting players would get injured, leaving only three. That's when Lucas Graves and another bench player, whose name escapes me, would get subbed in. That was the moment Lucas would use his power, Absolute Mimicry. He could copy the skills of top players and refine them, making him incredibly powerful. But using that power wasn't without its costs. It drained him, causing nosebleeds and fatigue. That's why I admired Lucas's journey in the novel—he trained hard to handle the side effects of his power.
In this moment, I felt a surge of determination. Lucas might be the protagonist, but I wasn't going to sit on the sidelines and watch. I was going to make my mark too.
Lucas caught my eye, pulling me out of my thoughts. "Ethan? Ethan?"
I blinked, realizing I had been lost in my own mind. "Oh, sorry." I replied, shaking my head to clear my thoughts.
Lucas grinned, his enthusiasm infectious. "It's okay. I feel tense too. We're playing against Orlando Hoops, one of the top basketball schools. But I'm still excited to play against these pro players!"
His excitement was contagious. I couldn't help but smile back. "Yeah, damn right." I said, feeling a spark of excitement myself.
Just then, a voice cut through the room, laden with skepticism. "Like hell, you two are playing."
I saw Coonie Smith coming toward us. He had short, messy black hair and looked a bit annoyed. Like us, Coonie was a bench player, but his attitude was far from positive.
Coonie smirked, crossing his arms. "We're bench players. Do you really think we can play just like them?"
Lucas didn't miss a beat, his voice firm and full of conviction. "Even if we're not as good as them, I'm still going to play!" He said it with such energy that it made you believe he could actually change the game's outcome.
Coonie raised an eyebrow, clearly surprised by Lucas's intensity. "Okay, dude, you're freaking me out."
I laughed, the tension in the room lightening a bit. Their exchange was a reminder of the different attitudes on the team. Lucas's passion was a stark contrast to Coonie's resigned skepticism.
Suddenly, the door to the locker room swung open, and Coach Fred Mason walked in. The room immediately went quiet. Coach Mason didn't look like a typical leader; he had a big belly and a lazy attitude, which didn't inspire much confidence. His coaching methods were often criticized, and our team's poor performance showed that.
"Okay, everyone, time to move out." Coach Mason announced, his voice echoing slightly in the locker room. There was a brief, charged silence as everyone looked up. His presence, despite his shortcomings, still commanded a certain level of authority, mainly because he was the coach.
Let me tell you all about Fred Mason, our coach, wasn't known for his great strategies. He had a big belly and a lazy demeanor, which didn't inspire much confidence. It's no wonder our team, Vorpal Basket, was considered one of the worst. Our starters, believing they were the best, rarely put in the effort to improve. This was frustrating for me because our only win is one game, and that was a fluke against Raptors Zone's bench players during a practice match. The fact that our starters struggled against another team's reserves spoke volumes about our situation.
But today felt different as I knew the outcome of this novel; this was the start of Lucas Graves' story, the moment where he would begin to shine. But something in me shifted. This wasn't just his story anymore—it was mine too. As an extra in this world, my destiny will always been on the sidelines, but not anymore. I was determined to become a star player, to carve out my own place in the narrative. Starting from now, I would make my mark and change the course of the story. This was the beginning of my journey, and I was ready to embrace it.
As we walked towards the court, the noise of the crowd grew louder, a reminder of the challenge ahead. But with Lucas and me, I felt ready to face it head-on.
For I am not a Water Boy anymore .... I am Ethan Albarado and this is my story.
To be continue.