Shizi Dogs vs. Yin Yang Knights (6)

The clock ticked down. One minute remained until the end of the second quarter. The scoreboard displayed a heart-pounding 47-48, with the Knights clinging to a fragile lead. 

Kimmy had been right. This game would be determined by the amount of their desperation. Both teams were evenly matched in talent, but desperation was starting to tip the scales. 

Yuze's muscles burned, his body pushed to its limits. But it wasn't the physical strain that weighed on him the most. It was Coach Guanyu's eyes. 

Jimmy, despite his initial reluctance, hadn't looked away from the game for the last several minutes. His bucket hat had also been discarded, and he leaned against the railings like a curious meerkat. 

Yuze shook his head, trying to focus, but the thought of his father's expectations lingered. 

He looked over at Kai, who was fiercely guarding Max. Kai could handle Max, Yuze knew that. In fact, Kai was better than Max, but that wasn't the point.