The days after the confrontation with Trenton blurred together in a mix of training and uncertainty. Kendrick's focus was on basketball—every morning at Coach Ray's program and every evening on the courts in his neighborhood. But despite his dedication, the weight of the streets was always on his mind.
It was Thursday afternoon when Coach Ray called Kendrick into his office. The small room was cluttered with old trophies, basketballs, and framed photos from the coach's NBA days. Kendrick had seen them a hundred times, but they never failed to inspire him.
Coach Ray sat behind his desk, his expression unreadable as Kendrick entered.
"Sit down, Rivers."
Kendrick did as he was told, his heart racing. He could feel the tension in the air, the weight of something coming. Was Coach going to tell him he wasn't good enough? Had he seen something in Kendrick that didn't meet his standards?
"You've been putting in work," Coach Ray said, his eyes locked on Kendrick. "But it's not just about skill, kid. It's about heart, about whether or not you can handle the pressure."
Kendrick swallowed hard, his palms sweating. "I'm ready, Coach."
Coach Ray leaned forward, clasping his hands together on the desk. "I hope you are. Because I just got a call. There's a showcase in a month, big names, big opportunities. Scouts from top colleges and even some semi-pro teams."
Kendrick's heart leapt in his chest, but Coach Ray wasn't finished.
"But if you choke, if you let the streets pull you back in… it's over. One bad impression, and they'll write you off for good."
Kendrick clenched his fists. He knew what was at stake. This was his shot, his way out. But the pressure was mounting, and with Trenton lurking, Kendrick couldn't afford any distractions.
"I won't choke, Coach," Kendrick said, his voice firm. "I'll be ready."
Coach Ray studied him for a moment before nodding. "Good. I'll be watching."
As Kendrick left the office, the weight of the upcoming showcase pressed down on him. The opportunity of a lifetime was within reach, but so were the streets. And Kendrick knew he couldn't afford to slip.