2 Seirin's new star

In his bedroom, Ryo stood before the mirror, preparing for the day ahead. He had chosen a casual yet stylish outfit: blue jeans and a black t-shirt, complemented by a white cap and matching white Jordan sneakers. Remembering Riko's insistence on wearing sneakers for their 'date', he couldn't shake off a sense of foreboding.

"Why did she emphasize on sneakers?" he mumbled to himself, slightly apprehensive about what lay ahead.

After a moment's hesitation, he grabbed his favorite cologne and spritzed it lightly. Standing in front of the mirror, he looked at his reflection, a mix of annoyance and curiosity on his face. "Why am I even making such a fuss?" he wondered aloud, his thoughts a tangle of anticipation and skepticism.

Shaking his head, Ryo grabbed his keys and left his room. He walked through the house and stepped out, closing the door behind him. The morning air was fresh and invigorating, filling him with a sense of purpose as he started his walk towards the metro station.

The streets were bustling with the usual morning activity, but Ryo's mind was elsewhere, focused on the impending meeting with Riko. What did she have planned? Was this just another practice, or something more? The questions circled in his mind as he made his way to the station, the rhythmic sound of his footsteps syncing with his racing thoughts.

Upon arriving at the designated meeting place, Ryo's eyes widened in surprise. There stood Riko, and behind her, the entire Seirin basketball team, clad in their game uniforms. His initial thought of a one-on-one meeting with Riko quickly vanished.

"What are you all doing here?" Ryo asked, his voice tinged with incredulity.

Riko, with a playful smirk, replied, "What do you mean? We have a practice game today."

Ryo's brows furrowed. "A game? I thought we had a... date?"

Riko's smile broadened. "Our date is watching them play. You'll get a front-row seat to see what you're missing out on."

In his mind, Ryo thought, 'I should've known it would be something like this.' He let out a resigned sigh, his suspicions confirmed.

Riko teased him, "What's the matter? Did you think this was going to be something romantic?"

"If that had been the case, I would have turned you down right away," Ryo retorted, trying to mask his relief with humor.

Riko raised an eyebrow playfully. "That's harsh. No wonder you're not popular with the girls."

Ryo, slightly embarrassed, removed his cap and ran a hand through his hair. Just then, Kuroko approached and greeted him, "Good morning, Kiro-san."

"Please, just call me Ryo," Ryo responded, a small smile forming on his face.

Kuroko nodded in acknowledgment, "Alright, Ryo."

Hyuga walked up to Ryo with a knowing look in his eyes. "I'm really sorry you fell for Coach's tricks," he said, a hint of sympathy in his voice.

Ryo shrugged, not entirely surprised by the turn of events. "It's alright, I kind of expected something like this."

He then turned to Riko, a slight edge of annoyance in his tone. "So, I'm just here to watch, right?"

Riko, unfazed, replied, "Of course, look at how you're dressed. You can't play in that outfit."

Ryo, still suspicious, pressed on. "Then why did you insist on me wearing sneakers?"

Riko chuckled. "I said that for your comfort. You're the one being paranoid, bringing Jordans thinking it might be a practice session."

Ryo shot back, "It's hard to trust you after this."

Riko smiled broadly, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "What are you talking about? I'm the most trustworthy person on the team. Besides, those Jordans aren't really meant for basketball, at least not the ones you're wearing."

_______

As they made their way deeper into the school towards the gym where the practice game was to be held, Ryo's curiosity about the opponent grew. "So, who are we playing against?" he asked Riko.

"We're up against Shutoku, one of the Kings of Tokyo," Riko replied, a hint of seriousness in her tone.

Ryo remarked casually, "Their soccer team isn't that great."

"Their basketball team, on the other hand, is one of the best. They not only have a strong team but also boast a player from the Generation of Miracles," Riko informed him.

Ryo raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Generation of Miracles?"

Riko explained, "They were six players who dominated high school basketball for three years. When they moved to different high schools, they each made a significant impact. They're exceptional players, each with the potential to play in the NBA someday. In fact, Kuroko is one of them, known as the Phantom Sixth Man."

Ryo turned to look at Kuroko, a new sense of respect in his eyes. 'So that's why his passing is so good,' he thought, recalling Kuroko's skillful maneuvers during their earlier match.

Outside the bustling gymnasium, the anticipation for the game was almost tangible. Tetsuya Kuroko, with his usual calm demeanor, was unexpectedly greeted by two prominent figures from the world of high school basketball: Shintaro Midorima, with his distinct green hair and glasses, from Shutoku, and the charismatic blonde Ryota Kise from Kaijo.

Kuroko's eyes showed a hint of surprise as he asked Kise, "What are you doing here?"

Kise, leaning casually against the wall with a playful smile, responded, "I was curious to see how Seirin will handle facing the Generation of Miracles without Kagami."

As they were talking, Kise's attention shifted to Ryo, a tall figure who stood out even from a distance. "Is he your new addition?" Kise asked, gesturing towards Ryo with a nod.

Before Ryo could speak, Riko, with a mischievous glint in her eye, swiftly grabbed Ryo's arm and pulled him closer. "Not at all, he's just my date for today," she declared, her tone light but loaded with teasing.

This unexpected announcement caused a ripple of surprise. Ryo, caught off guard but trying to maintain his composure, introduced himself, "I'm Ryo Kiro, just here to watch the match."

Midorima, who had been quietly observing the scene, pushed up his glasses with a precise motion and said coolly, "Then it's unfortunate for you, as you'll have to watch how I dominate your girlfriend's team."

Ryo's face flushed with a mix of annoyance and embarrassment. Firmly, yet politely, he untangled himself from Riko's grasp. "She's not my girlfriend," he stated, eager to clear the misunderstanding.

Riko, acting slightly wounded, exclaimed dramatically, "Oh? That's rather harsh."

Kuroko, stepping forward, faced Midorima with a steady gaze. "We may no longer have Kagami, but that doesn't mean we're weaker," he said, his voice soft but firm.

Midorima, turning to leave, threw a final remark over his shoulder, "I never implied that you were."

As the players dispersed to prepare for the game, the air was filled with a sense of competition and respect. For Ryo, this encounter was more than just an introduction to the players; it was a glimpse into the intensity and passion of high school basketball. He found himself drawn into the excitement, ready to witness a game that promised to showcase the very best of these young athletes' abilities.

Ryo and Riko settled themselves on the Seirin bench, a prime spot for observing the game. Ryo glanced around the gym, filled with the sounds of players warming up, and asked, "Is it okay for me to sit here?"

Riko nodded, "No problem. It's just a practice match, after all." The Seirin players were busy on the court, stretching and running drills.

Across the gym, the Shutoku coach, Nobunaga Shimura, observed the Seirin bench with a thoughtful gaze. 'With Kagami and Iron Heart (Teppei) gone, I wonder how Seirin will fare. They still have Kuroko, but they lack physicality and offensive power. It's like a spear without its tip,' he pondered.

His eyes then landed on Ryo, sitting casually on the bench. 'Could that boy be their new secret weapon?' he speculated.

Riko, sensing Shimura's scrutinizing gaze, acted quickly. She wrapped her arm around Ryo's, trying to appear casual. Shimura watched for a moment longer before concluding to himself, 'She's still a young girl, probably just her companion. It's the age for such things.'

Meanwhile, Ryo, feeling Riko's arm tighten around his, whispered, "Hey, stop hugging me so much."

Riko leaned in, speaking softly, "Sorry, but I don't want them to know you might join the Seirin team. Not yet, anyway. I want it to be a surprise."

Ryo frowned slightly, "I never agreed to join the team."

In his mind, he wondered, 'What is she planning now?'

The gym was abuzz with the energy of an impending showdown. Ryo's presence on the Seirin bench, coupled with Riko's strategic display, added an element of intrigue to the atmosphere. As the players took their positions and the game was about to start, Ryo couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement. The game, the players, the strategy - everything about this world was new and thrilling to him. He watched intently, his eyes tracking Kuroko's movements, beginning to understand the deep strategy and skill involved in basketball. It was a world he was only just beginning to uncover, and already, he was captivated.

As the whistle blew, signaling the start of the practice match, the energy in the gymnasium shifted immediately. The players moved into position, the Seirin team focused and determined, while the Shutoku team, led by Midorima, exuded a quiet confidence.

Midorima, with his green hair and glasses, stood out almost immediately. He possessed an air of calm precision, his eyes scanning the court with an almost surgical focus. As the game commenced, it became apparent why he was part of the legendary Generation of Miracles.

In the early minutes, Midorima's skill was undeniable. He received a pass from a teammate, and without hesitation, he launched into his signature shooting form. The ball arced gracefully through the air, a perfect trajectory, and swished through the net for a three-pointer. The Shutoku bench erupted in cheers.

Ryo, observing from the sidelines, couldn't help but be impressed. "He's incredible," he muttered under his breath, watching Midorima's effortless play.

Riko, still beside him, nodded in agreement. "Midorima is one of the best shooters in high school basketball. His accuracy from long range is almost unmatched."

On the court, Seirin was quick to respond. They moved the ball with purpose, Kuroko's phantom-like presence creating opportunities. However, Shutoku's defense, anchored by Midorima, was formidable. Every Seirin attack was met with disciplined resistance.

As Midorima scored another effortless three-pointer, the gap in the score began to widen. Ryo could see the challenge Seirin was facing. Midorima wasn't just a player; he was a force on the court, one that required a strategic approach to counter.

Watching the game unfold, Ryo felt a mix of admiration and competitive fire. He started to understand the nuances of basketball – the strategy, the skill, and the sheer athleticism required. Each play, each move on the court, was a learning experience, and Ryo found himself drawn deeper into the world of basketball with each passing moment.

As the third quarter of the game unfolded, the scoreboard displayed a stark reality: Shutoku 62, Seirin 43. Despite their relentless efforts, Seirin was trailing by a significant margin, largely due to Midorima's exceptional shooting.

On the Seirin bench, Ryo watched intently, analyzing each play. Kuroko's movements were subtle yet impactful, his ability to appear and disappear on the court almost magical. However, Shutoku's defense had adapted to his style, reducing his effectiveness.

Hyuga, Seirin's captain, was fighting hard to keep his team in the game. His three-pointers were crucial, but Shutoku's defense was smothering. Each time Hyuga found a sliver of space, a Shutoku player was there to contest his shot. Frustration was evident on his face, but he continued to push, refusing to give up.

Shun Izuki, the point guard with the 'Eagle Eye,' was doing his best to orchestrate the offense, his keen vision picking apart Shutoku's defense. Yet, for every clever play he set up, Shutoku seemed to have an answer.

Mitobe, the strong and silent center, was a force in the paint, but Shutoku's size and skill matched his. He battled for every rebound and putback, but the relentless pressure from Shutoku's big men was taking its toll.

Shinji Koganei, always energetic and enthusiastic, darted around the court, doing whatever he could to boost his team's chances. His hustle plays brought cheers from the Seirin bench, but they were not enough to close the gap.

Ryo leaned over to Riko, "They're working hard, but Shutoku's defense is just too strong."

Riko nodded, her eyes never leaving the game. "Shutoku is one of the best teams for a reason. Their coordination and skill level are top-notch."

On the court, Kuroko managed to slip through Shutoku's defense, delivering a perfect pass to Hyuga, who drained a much-needed three-pointer. The Seirin bench erupted in cheers, but the joy was short-lived as Midorima answered with another three-pointer of his own.

Ryo watched Kuroko, noting his persistence despite the odds. 'He never gives up,' Ryo thought, admiration growing within him. 'That's what makes him special.'

As the third quarter drew to a close, Riko called for a timeout. The Seirin players jogged over, their faces showing fatigue and determination.

"We need to switch things up," Riko said firmly. "Kuroko, keep creating those opportunities. Hyuga, don't hesitate to take your shot. Izuki, look for the open man. Mitobe, Shinji, I need you to be aggressive on the rebounds. We can still turn this around."

The players nodded, their resolve reigniting. They knew the odds were against them, but the determination in Riko's voice inspired them.

Riko turned to Ryo with a look of determination. "Alright, it's your time to shine. Go warm up, Ryo."

Ryo, taken aback, asked in confusion, "What? What are you talking about?"

"It's obvious, isn't it? You're going to play," Riko declared, her voice carrying a hint of excitement.

"Wait, you said I was just here to watch," Ryo protested, his voice a mix of surprise and apprehension.

Riko's expression turned serious. "That was the plan, but I think we need to make a statement. It'll give the boys a motivational boost for the season."

Ryo gestured to his casual attire. "As you can see, I don't have gear to play in."

Riko's smile returned as she reached into her backpack and pulled out a Seirin basketball uniform. It was white, with the number 7 emblazoned on it, and 'Ryo' printed on the back. "You like the number 7, right? It's what you wear for soccer."

Ryo, stunned, asked, "Where did you get this uniform?"

Riko replied, "It was Teppei's. I had to find a print shop that could remove his name and add yours, all overnight. So be grateful because I searched the whole city."

Ryo let out a sigh, a mixture of resignation and admiration. "You... you planned this from the start, didn't you?"

Riko grinned, making a peace sign with her fingers. "Maybe a little," she admitted playfully.

Reluctantly yet intrigued, Ryo took the uniform. He quickly changed into it, the jersey fitting him perfectly. The transformation was remarkable; he suddenly looked every bit the part of a basketball player.

As Ryo stepped onto the court, the Seirin team members and the crowd did a double take. Murmurs and whispers filled the gymnasium. Ryo's tall, athletic build and the confident way he moved to the court captured everyone's attention.

Riko clapped her hands together, her eyes on Ryo. "Alright, everyone! Let's give Ryo a warm Seirin welcome. He's one of us now!"

The team, surprised yet excited by this unexpected turn of events, gathered around Ryo, offering fist bumps and words of encouragement. Kuroko approached Ryo and said quietly, "Welcome to the team, Ryo."

Ryo, feeling a rush of adrenaline, nodded in acknowledgment. As he took his position on the court, the reality of the situation hit him. He was about to play his first-ever basketball game against one of the best high school teams in the country. It was daunting, but the competitive fire within him was ignited. He was ready to face whatever came his way.

The whistle blew, and the game resumed. Ryo, now a part of Seirin's strategy, was about to test his mettle on the basketball court. The crowd watched in anticipation, eager to see what this soccer star could bring to the game of basketball.

Riko's voice cut through the noise of the gymnasium, clear and commanding. "Ryo, you're on Midorima. Stick to him like glue."

Ryo's heart raced as he eyed Midorima, the green-haired sharpshooter known for his deadly accuracy. 'That giant? I don't even know how to defend properly,' Ryo thought, a surge of adrenaline fueling his determination.

Midorima, sizing up Ryo, thought to himself, 'He must be exceptional if Riko has assigned him to guard me. Seirin always has a trick up their sleeve. No Kagami, but another star, perhaps?'

The game resumed with Takao deftly passing the ball to Midorima. Ryo, aware of his crucial role, dashed towards Midorima with a speed that caught everyone off guard.

Midorima, with a smirk, muttered, "Let's see what you've got."

With a fluid motion, Midorima faked to the left and then quickly spun to the right, effortlessly shaking Ryo off. It was a move that spoke of years of experience on the basketball court - smooth, practiced, and nearly impossible to anticipate.

'Too easy,' Midorima thought, as he set himself up for his signature shot. The ball left his fingers, arching gracefully towards the hoop.

But in a stunning display of athleticism, Ryo, recovering from the initial fake, leaped into the air. His jump was astounding, almost as if he was propelled by springs. His hand met the ball at its peak, sending it flying off course.

The gym erupted into a mix of gasps and cheers. "No way... He jumps even higher than Kagami," someone exclaimed from the crowd.

Midorima, his shot blocked, landed with a look of shock. This was not the outcome he had expected. Ryo landed gracefully, a look of disbelief on his own face at what he had just accomplished.

Riko, from the sidelines, couldn't hide her excitement. "That's it, Ryo! Incredible!"

The Seirin team, re-energized by this unexpected turn of events, rallied around Ryo. Even the usually composed Kuroko showed a hint of a smile.

Ryo, now back in a defensive stance, looked at Midorima with new confidence. He had blocked one of the best shooters in high school basketball. It was a moment that changed the tide of the game and perhaps, the course of Ryo's athletic journey. The gymnasium buzzed with excitement, everyone now keenly aware of the new talent that had just emerged on the Shutoku basketball court.