The next day, Kendrick arrived at practice with a heavy heart. Trenton's words had been echoing in his mind all night. He couldn't let himself be distracted now, not with so much on the line. But as he walked into the gym, he noticed some of the other players glancing his way, whispering among themselves.
Kendrick ignored them and focused on his drills, but as the practice went on, he couldn't help but notice the sideways glances and hushed tones. Finally, Jamal, one of his teammates, walked up to him during a break.
"Yo, Kendrick," Jamal said, looking uncomfortable. "People are talking. They're saying… they're saying you've got beef with some people outside the court."
Kendrick's heart sank. He hadn't wanted his troubles to follow him here, but it seemed like word had spread.
"Look, man, it's nothing serious," Kendrick replied, trying to keep his tone casual. "Just some people from my neighborhood who don't get what I'm trying to do."
Jamal nodded, but his expression was wary. "I get it, K-Dawg. But be careful. Coach Ray doesn't like distractions, and the scouts… they won't want any drama. Just saying."
Kendrick forced a smile. "Thanks, Jamal. I got it handled."
But as he finished practice that day, Kendrick couldn't shake the feeling that his troubles were catching up with him faster than he could handle. He'd have to be extra careful if he wanted to keep his dreams alive.