NBA Skills: Dominating Kuroko no Basket

With Shiro's relentless, storm-like offensive plays and his uncanny precision in stealing the ball, the players of Komagi were completely overwhelmed, trapped in a one-sided game.

Shiro's unparalleled individual skill instilled fear in Komagi's players, to the point where they lost all hope and fighting spirit in the match.

In the critical final two minutes, Komagi failed to score even a single point, and the final score was a staggering 100:75.

"That was incredible!" Kise exclaimed, his jaw practically hitting the floor. Shiro's performance had been nothing short of dazzling, surpassing everyone's expectations.

After the game ended, Shiro smiled faintly. His gaze carried a hint of disdain as he gave a thumbs-up to the previously unruly students in the crowd, only to slowly turn his thumb downward in mockery.

The students of Komagi gritted their teeth in frustration, glaring at Shiro as he walked off the court. Their hearts were filled with resentment, but they understood the bitter truth—they were no match for him. Their earlier insults and taunts now seemed hollow. If they had won, they might have had the confidence to confront Shiro. But after such a crushing defeat, to provoke him further would only bring humiliation.

The players and staff of Teiko quickly packed up and left Komagi's court. The oppressive atmosphere weighed on them, and everyone was eager to leave as quickly as possible.

...

On the way back, Kise turned to Kuroko with a candid expression. "I think I kind of understand what you meant earlier, but honestly, I still don't get it. Even if I know what I should do, if it requires sacrificing myself, I absolutely couldn't do it."

Then, out of curiosity, Kise asked, "I know you're really amazing, Kurokocchi, but doing things that way... is it really fun?"

As Kuroko looked back at Kise, he thought, "Even while he explains things, I've always felt like this person doesn't consider the idea of sacrificing anything" A small smile tugged at Kise's lips.

"It's not fun at all" Kuroko suddenly replied, his voice breaking through Kise's thoughts. Kise turned to see Kuroko looking back at him with a serious expression.

"But if we lose, it's even worse…" Kuroko added after a pause.

"Ah, the pure pursuit of victory, huh!" Shiro chimed in, throwing his arms around the necks of both Kuroko and Kise as he joined them in the middle. Kise nodded in agreement.

"By the way...what's with the nickname 'Kurokocchi'?" Kuroko asked, his gaze shifting to Kise. Shiro also looked at him, curious, though slightly bewildered.

"Oh, that? I like to add 'little' or 'cchi' to the names of people I respect" Kise explained casually.

"Even you, Shirocchin!" he added cheerfully.

Shiro froze for a moment, his face twitching slightly. 'What the heck? I'm not 'little' at all!'

"Please don't call me that" Kuroko said with a small frown, his tone serious.

"What's the harm in it~" Kise laughed heartily, his face lighting up with his newfound passion for basketball. "More importantly, Kurokocchin, Shirocchin, I think I'm really falling in love with basketball!"

Shiro and Kuroko exchanged a glance and smiled slightly. They both understood—Kise had fully embraced his passion for the game. His way of expressing it might be unique, but it was undeniably genuine and endearing.

...

Later that evening, Nijimura stood outside Coach Sanada's office door. After a moment's hesitation, he knocked.

"It's Nijimura" he said.

Sanada opened the door, looking puzzled, and the two began to talk.

"After careful consideration, I believe this is the best decision. For both the team and myself, Akashi should take over as captain" Nijimura said with a solemn expression and tone.

"I don't understand" Sanada replied. "Last year, you were the one who recommended Akashi, then only a first-year, to be vice-captain. Coach Shirogane and I approved because we saw his extraordinary potential. But why are you so eager to pass the position to him now?"

Nijimura's eyes briefly flickered with sorrow. "My father has been hospitalized since last spring. His condition is stable for now, but when the Nationals come around, it's hard to say. If something happens, I'll have to leave immediately, even during a match. And even if nothing urgent happens, if his condition worsens, I won't be able to focus on the game"

Outside the door, a shadow quietly appeared, standing still and listening.

Nijimura continued with unwavering resolve: "I love basketball, but I also can't ignore the reality of my father's illness. I've kept this to myself until now, and I'm sorry for that."

Sanada studied Nijimura for a long moment, regret evident in his gaze. Finally, he nodded reluctantly. "I understand. Let's discuss it with the coach."

Having received the answer he sought, Nijimura thanked him and turned to leave.

Opening the door, he was met with an unexpected sight — Akashi, standing just outside.

"Oh, it's you, Akashi" Nijimura greeted him.

"Hello" Akashi replied, his expression unreadable as his sharp eyes remained fixed on Nijimura.

Nijimura sighed, his face twisting into a wry smile. "You overheard, didn't you?"

"Only the last part" Akashi admitted.

"That's the part I least wanted you to hear!" Nijimura groaned, spinning around to face Akashi directly. Slowly, his expression softened. "Anyway, it's decided. Starting now, you're the captain, Akashi."

"It's not decided yet" Akashi replied cautiously.

"Oh, come on. After what you just heard, do you still expect me to stay captain?" Nijimura retorted, his frustration showing.

"Are you nervous?" Nijimura asked calmly, recalling how he had felt when first given a leadership role.

"No, I'm just worried about you" Akashi answered sincerely.

"Fair enough" Nijimura said with a small smile. "But that's exactly why I'm not worried about you. Take care of the team, Captain Akashi" With that, he turned and walked away, though a hint of reluctance lingered in his steps.

"Understood!" Akashi watched Nijimura's retreating figure, silently resolving to live up to his trust.