I will fight you for that spot any time.
Jordan
I’d pay money to see it.
I’ll see y’all on my court this weekend.
Williams
Big NBA star has his own court.
Carter
Can’t wait to ball with you again, J. But we gotta go get this second championship really quick.
CHAPTER
THIRTY-THREE
JORDAN
It’s been a grueling week of away-game travel, and I’m missing my girl, something fierce. She has her thirty-eight-week appointment on Monday, and since I’m going to meet her for that, I’ve decided to stay at my place this weekend.
Even though I’d rather be curled up with Mack, I pull my truck into my reserved spot at the arena. I may not have a game tonight, but March Madness is in full swing, and CTU has found themselves deep in the tournament for the second year in a row. I had to come support my former teammates and coach as they hope to secure a spot in the Final Four tonight.
My sister and parents are sitting in my dad’s box, but I want to be behind the bench, closer to the court. It’s surreal that I was suiting up with these guys one year ago, and a wave of nostalgia hits me. As a Sting player, I’m able to sneak in without being noticed by going through private areas and sliding into my seat, whistling to catch my guys’ attention as they warm up.
Carter and Williams give me a nod and continue on with their routine, but my soon-to-be brother-in-law saunters over with a wide grin on his face. It still shocks me that Riggs decided not to pursue a professionalbasketball career. He’s beyond capable and talented, but his heart has always been set on coaching. When he found out my sister was sticking around at CTU, he knew he’d made the right choice. Ball is life—but for Riggs, he learned that nothing comes close to the love of the right woman.
“J, I thought you’d be up in the box, avoiding all the press and cameras.”
“Nah, I thought I’d do a little behind-the-bench coaching tonight.”
“I’m sure Coach will love that.” We both laugh and I see coach Jake Hart look over, smiling at me before walking over to shake my hand.
“Jordan, it’s good to see you, son. You’re having a great rookie season.”
“Thanks, Coach.”
“You can call me Jake. You’re in the league now.”
“I don’t think so. You’ll always be Coach to me.” He pats me on the shoulder, then heads to mid-court to chat with the officials before the game starts.
We’re nearing halftimeand CTU has brought their best game tonight. It’s a ten-point lead for my Titan brothers and the arena is buzzing with excitement. I’m texting with Mackenzie when I get a tap on the shoulder and I turn to find CTU radio broadcaster Dale Layton, waiting to talk to me.
“Jordan! I thought that was you. I’m so glad you’re here to support the boys.”
“Mr. Layton, it’s good to see you.” I shake his hand and we chat for a few minutes.
“Now, listen. I’d like to pull you over for a little chat during halftime. I know that our listeners would love to have you on. What do you say?”
Hesitantly, I agree and follow him down to the press area, taking a seat beside him. I’m fitted with the mic, something I’ve done many times inthe past, as a player. It’s wild to be here commentating on the game in front of me instead of playing it.
“Welcome back to Titan radio, Dale Layton coming live from Charlotte where the CTU Titans are leading by ten at halftime. I have the pleasure of being joined by our very own Jordan Mills. He led the team to a national title last season and is now having a stellar rookie season right here with the Sting. Welcome, Jordan.”
“Wow, Dale. That was quite an introduction. I appreciate it. It feels good to be here, supporting CTU.”
“Tell us what you’re seeing out there so far.”
