The ball bounced once, twice, before Lucas scooped it up, his golden eyes narrowing. "Not bad, Ethan… but I'm not letting you keep that lead."
Ethan wiped the sweat from his brow, smirking. "Then come take it."
Lucas exploded forward, his first step sharp enough to make a bystander flinch. He sold a quick crossover to the left, then spun hard to the right. Ethan anticipated the spin, sliding with him, arms out, feet digging into the court. But Lucas's next move was vicious, he stopped dead and pulled a lightning-quick fadeaway jumper.
Ethan leapt, arm fully extended, fingers brushing the ball, but not enough. SWISH.
"Sixteen-fifteen," Lucas announced, landing lightly, his expression cool but eyes sharp with competitive fire.
From the sideline, Louie shouted, "Don't let him heat up, Ethan!"
Kai muttered under his breath, "Damn… that footwork."
Jeremy, however, didn't blink, tracking every movement.
