Harsh pounding vibrates through the polished wood floor. Encouraging words echo back from the walls. I look for my opening. There it is. One bounce, two steps, up and—

I groan as the opposing boy slams me into the ground. The ball slips from my hands, landing out of bounds. Carefully I get to my feet. The man in stripes gives the sign, and we all line up with me taking the top.

He passes me the ball.

Two bounces, catch, a bounce. A shot and a swish follow.

He passes me the ball again.

Five seconds.

Two bounces, catch, a bounce.

The rhythm reverberates throughout the gym and throughout my mind. One for the team. One for everyone who came to watch.

Catch my breath.

And one for me.