Chapter 32: The Frightening Rokko Junior School

Today is the National Championship Finals.

The Teiko players sat silently on the bus, each gazing out the window as they approached the venue. The atmosphere was tense, no one spoke, and a palpable energy filled the air.

For the upperclassmen of the first string, even with past championship experience, this moment still stirred their nerves. The first-year rookies, on the other hand, were clearly on edge, for them, this was the very first time playing on the national finals stage, a monumental occasion that no one could pretend didn't make them nervous.

Teiko's opponent in today's match was Rokko Junior High.

Rokko's lineup was formidable, with two of the "Uncrowned Kings". One of them was Reo Mibuchi, also known as "Yasha", who once held the title of Japan's best middle school shooting guard.

His strength is beyond question, but why was he once called the best shooting guard in junior high school? The reason is that now, a three-point ace who can rival him has emerged — Shintaro Midorima! The arrival of this mysterious figure undoubtedly adds more intrigue and excitement to the game.

This game is also known as the battle for the title of No. 1 shooting guard in junior high school!

Though Midorima wasn't particularly attached to the title of Japan's best, in his mind, only the three-point prowess of Shiro could ever be a true match for his own.

Clipping his nails for good luck, Midorima held a nail clipper in his right hand while his left was wrapped in tape. This morning's horoscope had ranked Cancer in second place, a sign he interpreted as assurance of his victory over Mibuchi. As he saw it, Mibuchi was just another obstacle to clear on his path to glory.

Rokko's other Uncrowned King was Eikichi Nebuya, nicknamed "Herculean Strength" who played power forward and was known for his sheer strength. He is also a strong opponent!

Their remaining starting lineup was equally remarkable. First, there was Rui Hachimura, a third-year student and towering center at 188cm, blessed with an extraordinary skill set.

Shiro recalled that, in his previous life, Hachimura had made a name for himself in the NBA, a testament to his undeniable talent.

With a similar height and freakish athleticism, Hachimura and Murasakibara, would inevitably engage in an intense and highly anticipated showdown.

Next was Yuta Watanabe, another third-year standing at 177cm and playing small forward. Known as the "The Chosen One" by Japanese basketball fans, Watanabe's skill and talent had drawn attention for years.

Shiro's memories told him that Watanabe had a growth spurt in high school, reaching impressive heights. Watanabe's story in the previous life was that of a star, going on to lead his high school team to the nationals two years in a row and later representing Japan internationally, even playing for George Washington Colonials. He showed his potential in the NBA Summer League despite going undrafted.

In this world, Watanabe remained a standout player, though an injury in his second year sidelined him until this national championship. His return had fans wondering if he could still compete at his former peak level.

Despite the injury, Watanabe's athleticism and technical skill were nothing short of exceptional, and he was once regarded as Japan's best small forward. His comeback had everyone watching, hoping he could return to his previous form.

Meanwhile, Shiro had also been drawing the crowd's attention, his skill and courage setting him apart. He viewed this matchup against the former number-one small forward as a perfect opportunity to prove his own strength.

The game between Shiro and Watanabe symbolized the clash between new talent and established players, making it a highlight of the tournament. Fans were eager to see whether Watanabe would reclaim his former glory or if Shiro would claim the title as the next big star.

Also on Rokko's roster was Yuki Kawamura, a third-year point guard, standing only 165cm tall. Kawamura's story in Shiro's previous life was one of triumph, he emerged as a basketball star in the 2023 FIBA World Cup, showing the world that height was no barrier to success.

Kawamura's skills earned him comparisons to some of Japan's top players, including the speed of Ryota Miyagi, the shooting precision of Hisashi Mitsui, the composure of Kaede Rukawa the confidence of Hanamichi Sakuragi, and the leadership of Takenori Akagi. Even in junior high school, he was already considered Japan's top prospect.

A clash between Akashi and Kawamura was bound to be an epic highlight, a showdown of equals that fans couldn't wait to see.

Shiro couldn't help but think: Rokko's lineup was unbelievably powerful. Outside of Teiko, no other middle school in Japan could hope to compete with them. It was fair to say that other schools didn't even have a chance!

As the bus slowed, Shiro closed his eyes to gather his energy. There was little to say, he knew that all he could do was give his best to meet his own high expectations.

He felt a thrill at the challenge ahead. Since entering the nationals, he hadn't faced a team that truly required his full effort, but Rokko was different. Their strength was undeniable.

When the bus finally stopped outside the Tokyo Sports Arena, Shiro opened his eyes, a determined fire in his gaze. "Rokko... here I come" he whispered to himself, his voice filled with resolve.