บท 41: Shared Dreams and Determination
With the University of Southern California clinching the Parker Ten Championship, USC secured a direct berth to the 2009 NCAA Basketball Tournament. This marked a triumphant return to the NCAA arena for USC, elevating their ranking into the top 10 for the first time and earning them a coveted top-three seed in their division for "March Madness".
The news sparked celebrations across USC's campus, signaling their readiness to compete on college basketball's biggest stage.
Having led USC to the divisional championship, Lian Dao was rewarded by the system with a substantial increase in potential, raising his talent value to an impressive 94. His Bounce attribute jumped from 80 to 94, enhancing his ability to rebound and execute explosive plays on the court.
Despite this significant enhancement, Lian Dao remained focused and tempered his expectations, setting his sights on improving his speed—an attribute he believed would further elevate his game.
Reflecting on his recent achievements, Lian Dao savored the thrill of effortlessly outpacing opponents. He had evolved from relying on laborious dribbling and predictable plays to employing subtle feints followed by bursts of speed that left defenders trailing behind.
This newfound efficiency filled Lian Dao with confidence as he prepared to lead USC into the upcoming NCAA Tournament. His journey to greatness seemed unstoppable, fueled by his unwavering dedication and continuous improvement in basketball skills.
Throughout the playoffs, Lian Dao accumulated an impressive total of 10,634 points, including game statistics and victory points.
Notably, the system awarded him 10,000 points each time he broke an NCAA single-game assist record. Learning this, Lian Dao was initially speechless at the magnitude of potential rewards, though he quickly recognized the monumental challenge of breaking records like Bobby Hurley's NCAA historical assist record of 1,076 assists set over three years—a daunting task for a single NCAA season.
Deciding not to extend his NCAA career beyond this season, Lian Dao focused on attainable milestones. With his current single-season assist record at 13.1, he aimed to surpass the single-season average assist record of 13.3. Maintaining exceptional play and averaging 15 assists per game during March Madness seemed achievable, potentially rewriting the record books.
Investing his points into improving his bounce attribute, Lian Dao strengthened its value from 69 to 79, leaving him with only 634 points, insufficient for further upgrades.
...
Lian Dao and DeMar stood on the rooftop of USC's tallest teaching building, a breeze carrying hints of the nearby ocean. They leaned against a wall adorned with graffiti—a canvas of basketball legends' portraits and motivational slogans left by past visitors.
"This place hasn't changed much," Lian Dao remarked, surveying scenes that reminded him of late nights and deep reflections from a previous life.
"Yeah, it's like a sanctuary for us on days we're kept out of the gym," DeMar chuckled, referring to Coach Tim's concerns about Lian Dao's intense training regimen.
Lian Dao nodded knowingly. "Tim thinks I'm pushing too hard. Thinks I'll hurt myself if I keep at it like I have been."
DeMar nodded sympathetically. "You've been grinding like a machine lately. But hey, no pain, no gain, right?"
"Something like that," Lian Dao said with a wry smile. "I just need to keep pushing. Can't afford to slack off now."
As they stood there, enveloped in the graffiti-laden atmosphere, DeMar broached a question that had been on his mind. "So, are you thinking about the draft this year?"
Lian Dao hesitated, gaze drifting over the campus below before meeting DeMar's eyes. "Yeah, I've been giving it some serious thought. It's time for the next step."
DeMar's eyebrows raised in surprise. "That's big news. You've kept that quiet with the media."
"Yeah, I wanted to stay focused on the season, but it's been on my mind," Lian Dao admitted, voice reflecting determination tinged with uncertainty about the road ahead.
"I get it," DeMar said thoughtfully. "It's a major decision. But with your skills and everything you've been through, I think you've got a real shot."
Lian Dao nodded gratefully, appreciating DeMar's support. "Thanks, man. Means a lot."
Their conversation turned to USC's prospects in the upcoming championship, discussing their hopes and strategies for securing victory. "Do you think we can win it this year?" DeMar asked, his voice tinged with nervous excitement.
Lian Dao looked out over the campus, dusk casting a soft glow over the skyline. "I believe we've got a strong chance. We've put in the work for this."
Lian Dao understood the significance of bringing a championship trophy to USC, not just for personal reasons but also to fulfill promises and honor his roots.
He nodded thoughtfully, recalling their early discussions about leaving a mark at USC. "You said we could make history here," he remarked with admiration.
DeMar's smile held a mix of nostalgia and determination. "I still believe that," he affirmed, meeting Lian Dao's gaze with unwavering resolve.
As they stood on that rooftop, surrounded by graffiti and the city skyline stretching before them, each wall adorned with dreams and ambitions, Lian Dao and DeMar embraced the challenges of March Madness. It was a journey of uncertainty and relentless competition, where every game was a chance to advance or face defeat.
"This season is full of surprises and miracles," Lian Dao mused, anticipation laced with caution in his voice. "But it's also unforgiving. Every team gives their all because there's no room for mistakes."
DeMar's optimism remained unshaken. "We can do it this year," he declared firmly, fist punching the air with determination.
Lian Dao mirrored the gesture, their fists connecting in a silent pledge of unity and resolve. "We'll make history," he affirmed, sharing DeMar's belief with quiet intensity.
Their shared commitment wasn't just about aspirations—it was about defying expectations, chasing dreams, and leaving a legacy together at USC.
Their conversation turned back to their shared vision—to give their all on the court, to defy expectations, and to chase their dreams of championship glory. Amidst the thrill and unpredictability of March Madness, Lian Dao and DeMar silently vowed to face whatever challenges came their way, united in their pursuit of greatness for USC.
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