4 Chapter 4: First Day

In the previous chapter, Kazuki made the decision to attend Rakuzan Middle School, a prestigious institution known for its strong basketball program, instead of Teiko. He expressed his desire to face off against the Generation of Miracles on his own terms. With the support of his parents and the blessings of his grandparents, Kazuki embarked on this new chapter of his basketball journey.

Kazuki woke up on the first day of school, anticipation coursing through his veins. The thought of joining the Rakuzan basketball team filled him with excitement and a touch of nervousness. However, his restless thoughts about playing basketball and his eagerness to make a strong impression on his first day kept him awake late into the night. Consequently, Kazuki overslept and jolted awake as his alarm blared beside him.

Realizing the time, he leaped out of bed, his heart racing. He quickly dressed, grabbed his bag, and dashed downstairs to meet his parents. His mother, Sarah, let out a hearty laugh as she watched his hurried movements, knowing her son's unwavering passion for basketball.

"What's the rush, Kazuki?" Sarah asked with a smile, amused by her son's early morning antics.

Kazuki replied, a hint of embarrassment coloring his cheeks, "Sorry, Mom. I couldn't sleep last night, thinking about basketball. I don't want to be late for the first day of school."

As he mounted his bike, ready to pedal off swiftly, Sarah exchanged knowing glances with his grandparents, who had come to see him off. They understood Kazuki's determination and shared a special bond with him, forged through their unwavering support.

At Rakuzan Middle School, Kazuki arrived breathless but determined. He parked his bike and rushed inside, eager to face the challenges and adventures that awaited him. As he entered the building, he took a moment to admire the grandeur of his new school, feeling a sense of pride swelling within him.

However, his excitement was short-lived as he realized he was running late for his first class. Panicking, Kazuki hurried to the classroom, praying that he hadn't missed too much. Upon entering, he was met with the stern gaze of his teacher, who reprimanded him for being tardy.

The teacher, trying to maintain discipline, instructed Kazuki to introduce himself to the class briefly. Kazuki looked around at the unfamiliar faces, his nerves tingling. Gathering his composure, he stood before his classmates and shared a concise introduction, aiming to leave a positive impression.

As he finished speaking, he noticed curious eyes fixed upon him. His peers were intrigued by the fact that he had recently moved to Japan from America. Questions about his life in America and the reasons for his relocation soon filled the air.

With a smile, Kazuki answered their queries, sharing stories of his love for basketball and how he wished to pursue his dreams in Japan. He spoke of his admiration for the Generation of Miracles and his hopes of someday facing them on the court.

(Author's Note: If you have not noticed fauled to mention is but Kazuki is 1 year younger than the Generation of Miracles.)

The school day passed quickly, providing Kazuki with a glimpse of his new routine and his classmates' diverse personalities. As the final bell rang, he mustered the courage to approach a friend he had made in class, hoping to convince him to try out for the basketball team together.

However, to his disappointment, his friend declined, citing other commitments. Accepting the rejection gracefully, Kazuki understood that not everyone shared his passion for the sport. Determined to pursue his dreams, he bid his friend farewell and made his way to the basketball team tryouts alone.

As Kazuki entered the gymnasium, he sensed a palpable tension in the air. The gymnasium was filled with aspiring players, each vying for a spot on the team. Coaches observed them intently, assessing their skills and potential. The atmosphere crackled with competitiveness, making Kazuki's heart beat faster with both anticipation and nerves.

With the tryouts about to commence, the chapter comes to an end, leaving Kazuki on the threshold of new challenges. The tension and excitement in the gymnasium become a prelude to the obstacles and triumphs he will face as he strives to make his mark in the Rakuzan basketball team.