Just another faceless sq

players. Hell, the franchi

the Tulsa 66ers. Two years ago, they moved again – from Tulsa (OK'

plea: Notice us, Thunde

sugar daddy. How long could a small-

ed, Blue players had to shine bri

They were grinding

elow his third-floor apartment. He leaned out the

ool to practice. Upsh

practice. He had the memories, sure, but the

per. The control. If he really had Grant Hill's skills – e

NBA for Phoenix. An NBA double-dig

had to seize this. Land a

ght," Upshaw announced as Link

hy

hat? And your body... looks the same, but... stronger

positioning was savvier, his defense tougher. Upshaw, who used to bully Link physi

up. Coach ain't happy with me lately.

ice hasn't been great either. Coach ain't a bad guy, but your pl

und." Link bumped fists with Upshaw. He wa

up to their practice facility a

gy Arena. The Antioch was a remodeled relic, holding maybe 12,000. Nowhere near N

night? Bags un

ollin' w

Zeke! F

t of athletic freaks. Guys who'd be stars anywhere else. Stuck h

elf. Didn't make enemies. His skin color hadn't caused

ibly friendly Upsh

room, a thick-necked, buzz-cut white dude stepped out.

ell. You're just weak." Chink. The word hung heavy. It wasn't

teammate!" Upshaw shoved th

Brockman, spread his hands. "But on the court? I

ton Huskies star. A 6'7" "polar bear" who played the 3 and 4. Agile for his size

s last season: 2.8 ppg, 4.1 rpg

ames: 2.2 ppg, 2.9 rpg. Embarrassing. Down

for guys playing the same position. Everyone's fighting

an forward in practice secured his starting spot. T

ckman on D. Brockman gave a subtle shov

room. "That cracker always thinks he's top shit

down on people of color, yet

t off. He wasn't some hothead itching

r cursed. Always polite. Since t

ain't lettin' him push me around either.

ard of Jon Brockman. Meaning the

ith Grant Hill? It wasn't arrogan

ink? Water under the bridge. M