CHAPTER THIRTY.
EVERYTHING WAS riding on this moment, this game, this was the end of the line for the seniors at Uconn. Their last chance at a national championship. The game had been a fast-paced, edge of your seat kind of game. Neither team pulled ahead for more than a five point lead within the whole first 30 minutes.
The girls had been on fire, fighting back and responding to everything South Carolina sent their way. The connection between Paige and Jenessa so clearly intensified, their movements fluid yet sharp, every pass perfect, the two didn't need to call out plays or even make eye contact. Jenessa had so far made 9 three-pointers, only one away from beating the program record of 10 held by Maya Moore.
After a quick time-out, the energy coming from the Uconn girls shifted, a fire beneath them lit. Every single girl in her element, bringing the momentum they needed to finally pull ahead and take down SC. Their newfound energy was evident as they all seemed to anticipate the next move, making their game nearly impossible to predict.
Paige locks eyes with Jenessa, easily feeding her a sneaky pass from behind the back. She doesn't hesitate to release the ball, and for a split second; the world seemed to slow. Swish. Another three. The entire arena erupts, practically leaping out of their seats as Jenessa ties Maya Moore for most 3s in a single game. But she doesn't let it affect her, quickly switching back onto defense as the rest of the team follows her lead.
She doesn't miss the astonished look in Paige's eyes, a proud smile tugging on her lips. After the change in atmosphere within the crowd, the girls notice the way South Carolina suddenly faltered, Nika quickly using it to her advantage and forcing a turnover. KK sent the ball to Paige, her gaze flicking to the scoreboard. 63-60 Uconn. 8 minutes on the clock.
As the fourth quarter heated up, both teams traded blows in a battle of grit. Paige remained the anchor for the team, directing traffic and making crisp passes under intense defensive pressure. Jenessa continued to shine, sinking a deep three that officially put her above the record, despite being double-teamed. Every single shot the brunette made was going in.
Every possession mattered, and their teamwork was on full display as they found ways to exploit gaps in the opposing defense. It seemed like South Carolina was crumbling under the pressure the girls were putting on them.
On the defensive end, Nika stepped up with incredible energy, picking up her opponent full court and forcing turnovers. Her intensity was contagious, inspiring her teammates to lock in on every play. Ice made her presence felt with a huge defensive rebound after a missed free throw, immediately pushing the ball upcourt for a transition bucket by Paige.
After another timeout, South Carolina responded with a scoring run of their own, cutting the lead to just two points.
With just under four minutes remaining, the game turned into a test of nerves and execution. Ice came up with a clutch block that sent the ball flying into the hands of Paige, who sprinted down the court for a layup. The play brought the crowd to its feet, a wave of energy pulsing through the gym. As the clock ticked down, every possession felt like it carried the weight of the championship. It was a battle of hearts and minds, with the girls refusing to back down.
By 2 minutes, Jenessa had hit yet another 2 threes, bringing her total to 12. However, South Carolina had managed to catch up, tying the game at 74. The championship was in arms reach, and every play carried immense weight.
Paige brought the ball up the court with her signature composure, scanning the defense for an opening. She found Jenessa curling off a screen, and she delivered under pressure, draining a deep three-pointer that once again sent their fans into a frenzy. She was at 13. The opposing team quickly responded with a layup to cut the lead to one, Ice drew a foul as she muscled her way into the paint. She sank both free throws, extending their lead to 79-76.
The intensity on defense was intense as Nika and Ice took over, applying relentless pressure. KK came up with a key steal, diving on the floor to secure possession and drawing a foul in the process. She missed her free throws, but Ice swooped in for a rebound, giving them another chance to burn time. The clock ticked down to 45 seconds, and Nika orchestrated a perfectly timed pick-and-roll with Paige, who finished with a layup to push the lead to five.
The opposing team refused to go quietly, nailing a quick three-pointer to make it 81-79 Uconn with just 20 seconds left. After a timeout, South Carolina managed a layup, tying the game once again. Paige's fingertips against the ball felt like lightning, if they were to shoot right now, South Carolina still had the opportunity to respond. She slowly dribbled down the court, ignoring Geno's loud words from the sidelines, telling her not to mess this up.
There was only one person Paige trusted to make this final shot, especially if she were to leave five seconds on the clock before passing, and the immense pressure of the pure need to make it. She glanced at Jenessa, 10 seconds. The brunette's heart thumped at the millisecond of contact. Paige was giving her the shot. She immediately planned her escape from the double-team currently on top of her, KK sensing the plan, stepped in for a screen.
It all happened so quickly, the whole arena barely registered the fact it happened, until they watched the ball swish through the net, and Jenessa landing on the arch. 14 threes, and the game-winning tie breaker.
Their team erupted in celebration, the scoreboard reading 84-81 Uconn, tears immediately flowing from the girl's eyes. The final buzzer sounded, and pure emotion erupted from the UConn women's basketball team. Players stormed the court, leaping into each other's arms, their joy uncontainable after months of grueling practices, immense injuries and hard-fought games. Nika was the first to grab the championship trophy, hoisting it high as confetti rained down from above. The crowd roared in celebration, a sea of blue and white waving flags and banners as the team huddled together, tears of joy streaming down their faces. It was a moment they had dreamed of, and now it was finally real.
Paige and Jenessa stood at center court, embracing with wide grins as cameras captured the raw emotion of their triumph. Paige, clutching the game ball, laughed through happy tears, pointing to the fans who had cheered them on all season. Jenessa took a moment to reflect on how far they had come, before turning back to meet her favourite blues. She couldn't hold back, grasping Paige's face in her hands and connecting their lips in a kiss. It was short but powerful, every single emotion both girls felt drained into it.
Nearby, KK and Ice danced in a circle, arms linked, their energy infectious. Paige breaking into a small laugh at the sight of the two, wrapping an arm around Jenessa's shoulders as they walked towards them. The entire team followed suit, creating a display of unity that reflected their bond on and off the court.
As the trophy ceremony began, each player was called to the stage to loud cheers, their accomplishments celebrated by the crowd and each other. Jenessa was named tournament MVP. She accepted the award with humility, crediting her teammates and coaches for the win.
Geno stood proudly with his players, his smile reflecting years of dedication and countless hours of preparation. "If anyone deserves this, it's these girls. They've fought through more than anything I've experienced my whole career." He spoke briefly but passionately, basically summing up himself as a person, and reminding everyone why this group was special.
In the locker room, the celebrations continued, with water bottles spraying and players singing along to their victory playlist. They posed for photos, championship hats perched on their heads and medals draped around their necks. Paige pulled out her phone to capture a group selfie, the trophy gleaming in the center of the frame. Jenessa pressed her lips to the blonde's cheek. The team's bond was evident in every hug and laugh, a testament to the trust and friendship that had carried them through the season.
After a long night of partying, Jenessa and Paige retreat to the quiet of a hotel room, wrapped in each other's embrace. "Got some new fancy bling." Jenessa smiled, raising her hand to stare at the huge rock that lay on her finger. "Hell yeah we do." Paige laughed, holding hers up as well.
"I still can't believe it. It's surreal, we beat South Carolina, we finally got our championship, and we're stronger than ever." Jenessa hummed, resting her head back onto the blonde's chest. "I can." Paige spoke, her voice soft. Three words hanging onto the tip of her tongue. "Alcohol makes you cheesy." The brunette laughed, lifting her head and poking her cheek. "Only for you." She rolled her eyes, planting a soft kiss on Jenessa's head.
"So, what's this mean then? The WNBA?" She asked, looking up at Paige through her eyelashes. "Yeah, I mean it's my dream. Always has been." She shrugged, clearly already set on her decision, however she noticed uncertainty in Jenessa's eyes. "You?" And at that, Jenessa sighed, the weight of it all hitting her. "I don't know. It feels like this was all useless if I don't, to be completely transparent. But, getting drafted is one thing, making a roster is a whole other, and what if playing professionally isn't the same? I don't want to lose my love for the game. I can't lose my love for the game." Jenessa's words came out a hundred miles a minute, the slight buzz racking her anxiety even higher.
"Because of Sophia?" Paige asked, the name leaving her mouth sent a shudder down Jenessa's spine. "Yeah." She managed to choke out. "Baby, I bet your sister would be proud of you no matter what choice you make. And basketball isn't your only connection to her, I know you think that; but it isn't." The blonde reassured, tucking a loose strand behind Jenessa's ear, her touch gentle. "It's all I've got left of her, P. If I quit, I lose that, If I play- and lose my love for it, I lose her as well. There's no winning." She mumbled, feeling her emotions beginning to crash, and tears starting to form.
"Nessie, breath. Relax, I've got you." Paige's voice was laced with concern, her eyebrows furrowing. "I'm sorry, I'm a wreck." Jenessa laughed lightly, trying to calm her racing heartbeat. "You never have to apologize to me, but hey, let's talk about this later okay? You've got a couple weeks, we'll figure it out." The brunette nodded, nuzzling back into the girl's warm embrace, listening to her heartbeat.
"All I've wanted since we won is to be alone with you." Paige hummed, snaking her arms around Jenessa's waist from behind, resting her head on the brunette's shoulder as they stood in front of the bathroom mirror.
"Oh really?" Jenessa lifted a brow suggestively after finishing up. Paige's hands dropped to her hips, quickly spinning the shorter girl around and pressing her lower back against the cool marble sink. Paige's body heat radiating off of her, her eyes filled with desire and mischief. With a playful smirk the blonde pulled her into a deep kiss, it started off slow but quickly escalated when Paige lifted Jenessa on top of the sink, the brunette wrapping her legs around the taller girl's waist. Her fingers tangling into her hair as Paige's tongue slipped into her mouth, eliciting a groan from her at the sensation.
"Paige- please." She broke the kiss, her breath ragged and voice filled with desperation. "Fuck." Paige groaned, her words awakening what felt like an animal inside her. In one motion, the blonde snuck her hands under Jenessa's ass and scooped her up, before walking out of the bathroom and tossing her onto the bed. "I'm gonna show you just how proud of you I am baby." Paige mumbled, stripping her white shirt off her body, revealing her toned abs and arms. She quickly crawled onto the bed, her hands finding themselves under Jenessa's tank top with an urgency neither expected. "Want it off." She murmured against the brunette's lips. "Then take it off then." Jenessa challenged, a low chuckle leaving Paige's lips. "Yes ma'am." She said, following instructions and peeling the purple fabric over her head.
Immediately connecting her mouth to the brunette's chest, peppering hot, wet kisses all along them. Her tongue danced around for a while, until moving to the spot she knew specifically made Jenessa tick. "Oh god." Jenessa twitched, a quiet whine leaving her throat. "Love making you sound like that." Paige smirked, looking up at the brunette before continuing to suck and nip, undoubtedly leaving a dark mark. Jenessa's nails dig into Paige's bare back a little harder. "P," she whispered, growing impatient.
But Paige knew what she wanted, and didn't need to respond with words. Her long fingers hooked under the waistband of Jenessa's sweatpants, pulling them off her quickly. Her eyes glued to the lacey baby purple thong covering where she desired to taste most. "When did you get those?" She breathed, the heartbeat in her core growing stronger. "Before we left- knew you'd like em'." Jenessa mumbled, her head laid back against the pillow. "You're going to be the death of me." Paige shook her head before pulling them to the side, and connecting her lips to Jenessa's clit. A sharp gasp left the brunette as her back arched off the bed, Paige's hand reaching up to press on her stomach, pushing her back down onto the bed. Her tongue expertly circling around, at a speed no one could imagine.
Jenessa mumbled incoherently, gripping onto Paige's hair in an attempt to stay grounded. The blonde hums in response, the vibrations sending shocks throughout her body. "Don't stop." Jenessa managed to get out, her voice hoarse, she looked down briefly, and the sight of Paige completely focused, and working in perfect rhythm was almost too much to bear. She threw her head back, a moan escaping her lips. Paige hit every sensitive spot with ease, knowing exactly how to please the brunette. Jenessa on the other hand was on a different planet, her gasps and soft whimpers only spurring Paige on. Her tongue began to flick faster, sucking becoming more feverish. "Come on baby, let go for me." Paige mumbled against Jenessa's core, tapping on her stomach lightly. That was enough for a dam to be opened, Jenessa's legs began to shake, her thighs tightening around Paige's head as she slowed down, working the girl through it. "Just like that, you're doing so good." Jenessa could only respond with breathy whines.
Paige's fingers ran a stripe through her slick, bringing them up to Jenessa's mouth. The brunette immediately attached her mouth to Paige's fingers, understanding what she wanted, and sucking them, a 'pop' noise filling the room as she got to the ends. Paige watched her like a hawk, her eyes darkening at the sight. "Got enough energy for one more?" She asked, but Jenessa knew that wasn't an actual question the second her head dropped between the girls legs again. "Wait-" She gasped, her hands gluing to Paige's hair again. It was almost too much, her tongue working in those perfect, deliberate circles that made her see stars. "P- baby, too much-" She whimpered weakly, trying to ease the blonde away. Paige responds with a small whine, pulling away ever so slightly. "Just one, cmon ma, gimme one more, please?" She begged, looking up with puppy eyes Jenessa couldn't resist. Who was she to say no anyways?
Before she could respond, Paige was diving back in, too impatient to wait for a response. If Jenessa wasn't on the verge of passing out from pleasure, she'd stop to question why it seemed Paige was working for something else. Her mouth was moving in a way that made Jenessa feel as though she was on fire, and the added sensation of Paige slipping two fingers in made her eyes roll back. "Fuck." She shuddered, nails digging into the blonde's shoulders while she lapped her up like a dog.
Jenessa tried to regain focus, looking down at Paige once more. The way her brows furrowed, and how determined she was to coax a second orgasm out of the brunette was enough to send a woman into a coma. "Paige- fuck, I'm close." She gasped. Paige looked up at her. "Hold it." She demanded, her eyes staying locked on Jenessa's. The intensity in her gaze made the girls stomach flip, something in the way Paige watches her, the hunger and focus in her eyes and the way her mouth moves against Jenessa was relentless. Paige was trying to engrave the way her girlfriend looked into her brain, every stray hair, her flushed cheeks, the slight part of her lips, and the dazed look in her eyes.
Jenessa's head fell back onto the pillow, biting down on her lip as she tried to hold back from breaking right there. But it was useless; Paige was too good, the way her tongue moved in a way specific to Jenessa's liking, her hand pressing down to keep the shorter still. "You're so fucking perfect." Paige mumbled to herself, ignoring the intense pound between her own legs. That was enough for Jenessa to break.
Her back arched off the bed, hands tugging at the blonde locks between her fingers, the band threatening to snap. "Baby-" Jenessa gasped, unable to find any other words, her body trembling as she subconsciously tried to move away from Paige's mouth. But the blonde didn't stop, she sucked, and sucked, moaning against Jenessa as she was enjoying this if not as much, maybe even more so then she was, and curled her fingers just right. It hit Jenessa al at once, the pure force of her second orgasm hitting like a bus.
Her whole body twitched, a loud moan ringing through the whole room as waves of pleasure rushed through her. Paige's movements became sloppy as she tried to work the brunette through it, small whimpers leaving her mouth and getting muffled by Jenessa's skin. Both girls abruptly stopped, Paige's head dropping onto the inside of Jenessa's thigh as shaky breaths left her lips. "Holy fucking shit." The brunette spoke, her voice ragged and quiet. "Holy fucking shit is right, I just got off- to getting you off-" Paige shook her head, astonished. Slowly crawling up to lay beside the girl. "Deadass?" Jenessa smiled, amused. "Yeah." Paige whined, covering her face in embarrassment. "Awh, baby. Don't hide from me, that's like- hot as fuck." She laughed, tugging on Paige's wrist.
"Are you lying to me?" She asked, uncovering her face and turning to look at her girlfriend. "No, now c'mon, let's go clean ourselves up." Jenessa gave her a soft smile, one Paige would move mountains for. "I love you." Paige spoke, almost in a trance. "I love you too." Jenessa chuckled, shaking her head at Paige's antics.
DENNY'S CORNER
if you remember a different version of this, no u dont.
i got confused.
anyways
so i got a little carried away
im dropping off the face of the earth after this.
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