Ding!
[Task released: Win the first match against Teikō Junior High, and you'll get a lottery draw.]
The system's sudden notification startled Ragai, who was preparing for the game. He was accustomed to its silent operation, so this was unexpected and exciting.
Past lottery draws had yielded incredible benefits, most notably his Metavision ability. Despite the significant score deficit, defeat wasn't an option.
He was ready to give his all, eager to see what new power the system might bestow.
"Itoshi Rin from Blue Lock would be amazing," he thought, already making his wish.
...
Ragai entered the game, replacing the point guard.
His departing teammate, frustrated, muttered, "Ragai, I'm sorry, we got completely outplayed."
Ragai responded with unwavering confidence, "It doesn't matter. With me on the court, we win."
His teammates visibly relaxed, but Ragai's next words shifted the mood.
A mocking glint appeared in his eyes as he said, "But you guys were terrible. Is that your best when I'm not playing? Practice harder. You'll be training like I do."
A twitch played on his teammate's lips.
The implication of Ragai's intense training regime was clear.
With the substitution complete, their team had possession.
A teammate passed to Ragai, who controlled the ball with one hand, raising his index finger with the other.
The signal was understood a solo performance.
While Ragai's Metavision usually led to a team-oriented approach, his one-on-one skills were equally formidable.
Teikō's momentum needed to be broken, a statement made to reassert their dominance.
They'd been bullied; it was time for their ace to step up and boost morale.
The atmosphere was electric a stark contrast to Ragai's initial arrival.
Teikō's second-string coach, calmly observing from his seat, thought, "Hmm... seems like a hidden trump card."
Years of experience allowed him to gauge a player's skill from their demeanor, and he sensed something exceptional in Ragai. He considered warning his players but decided against it; their lead was too substantial.
His gaze shifted to Kise Ryōta, the dazzling genius beside him. A smirk played on his lips. "Even trump cards have their differences," he murmured, watching the opposing coach's growing anxiety.
He felt completely in control.
...
Ragai smoothly dribbled through mid-court. His 191cm frame was unusual for a point guard, even at this level.
His defender was significantly shorter. The opponent anticipated Ragai's height would make his ball handling unstable, pressing aggressively.
Ragai easily countered with a simple, protective dribble, avoiding any flashy moves.
The defender, showing intelligence, backed off, giving Ragai space allowing a shot but preventing a drive.
At the top of the arc, Ragai felt the true skill of Teikō's second string.
No wonder his teammates were overwhelmed.
His opponent played strategically, giving him space to shoot but not to drive.
Ragai paused, a subtle smile appearing.
His opponent's strategy was clever, but it wouldn't work. His shooting was excellent. This open look was perfect.
But to truly inspire his team, he needed a more aggressive approach.
Ragai lowered his stance, shifting into attack mode.
His momentum changed dramatically, the pressure instantly felt by his defender.
He shifted the ball from his right hand to his left, extending his arm fully, making defense almost impossible.
His footwork was as quick as the ball's movement.
The change in rhythm activated Metavision, highlighting a glowing puzzle piece on the defender's left leg a clear weakness.
This was the foundation of his one-on-one dominance.
He often wondered who would win his vision or Akashi's Emperor Eye.
Only a direct comparison would answer that.
He exploited the weakness immediately, driving toward the vulnerable spot, swiftly switching the ball back to his right hand and breaking through with a powerful stride.
In a single step, he left his defender behind. The defender, off-balance, fell, yelling to his teammates, "Hurry up and defend!"
Teikō's reaction was too slow. Ragai's speed was superior. As their center rushed to protect the basket, Ragai rose, the ball high above his head.
Bang!
The ball swished through the net. Ragai hung on the rim, his imposing figure towering over the 195cm center. Silence fell over the court.
Landing, Ragai looked around. In the quiet stadium, he declared, "Show some fire! Think they're strong? I'll lead the charge!" His words were for his teammates, but they also stirred the opponents and the audience.
"Oooooh!"
"Damn, Ragai's on fire!"
"Defense!!!"