Slam dunk, hit 100% of the three-pointers at the beginning!

Early the next morning—

As the alarm rang, Ryu began his usual morning jog with Ayako.

After finishing their training, they headed to the basketball gym to meet the team.

Coach Anzai arrived, his round belly leading the way, and looked around at the gathered players.

"Not bad, most of you are already here. It seems we still have a few people missing, so let's wait a bit," he said, his tone calm but pleased that most of the team had arrived early.

Sitting down, Coach Anzai added, "Since we're still waiting, make sure you've brought everything you need. It's a two-day trip to Ryonan High School for the practice match, so double-check your belongings."

Hearing this, Akagi and the others carefully went through their bags again.

After confirming they hadn't forgotten anything, they sighed in relief. The thought of delaying their departure due to missing items was too embarrassing to bear.

A minute later, a loud voice echoed from outside the gym.

"Ahh! I'm late! I'm late!"

It was Sakuragi Hanamichi, running in a panic.

The others shook their heads, amused by his antics.

Before Sakuragi could say a word, Akagi greeted him with a punch.

"You idiot! Don't you realize everyone's been waiting for you? You have zero sense of time!" Akagi bellowed.

Sakuragi held his head and quickly apologized. "Ah, I'm sorry! I was too excited last night and overslept. I won't do it again!"

Seeing his genuine apology, Akagi let it slide.

"Fine, just don't mess up next time."

Shortly after, Rukawa Kaede arrived, looking half-asleep with his bag slung over his shoulder.

Kogure wiped the sweat off his forehead, muttering, "This team is full of problem children. Let's just hope they don't pull this during the match with Ryonan."

As for Miyagi, he was nowhere to be found, even as the departure time drew closer.

"Where is that guy?" Akagi grumbled, frowning.

"Coach Anzai, it's almost time. Should we head out?" Akagi asked after a final headcount.

Coach Anzai stroked his chin and smiled. "Alright, let's go."

"Our destination - Ryonan High School!"

With Coach Anzai's command, the team formed a line and began heading toward the station.

After a few hours of travel, the Shōhoku team arrived at Ryonan High School, one of the top four teams in Kanagawa.

Stepping off the bus, everyone took a moment to look around.

"So this is Ryonan High?"

The first-years, including Kuwata, stared at the school with wide-eyed curiosity. It was their first time visiting.

When Coach Anzai disembarked, the team lined up neatly.

Waiting for them was Coach Taoka Moichi, who had arrived early to greet them.

Coach Anzai smiled warmly and shook hands with Coach Taoka.

The first-years couldn't help but whisper among themselves.

"Wow, Coach Anzai must be really famous!"

"Even Ryonan's head coach is so respectful toward him."

Akagi overheard their chatter and explained briefly, "You guys don't know? Coach Anzai was a legendary college coach before… well, some things happened."

After exchanging pleasantries with Coach Anzai, Coach Taoka led the Shōhoku team to their designated rest area.

Coach Taoka turned to Akagi before leaving. "Make sure your team gets plenty of rest tonight. Everything has been arranged."

With that, he left the room, leaving the Shōhoku team to prepare for the match ahead.