Basketball System: Rebound of the Underdog

Kai Guo Spotted with Ethan Henderson: Pro-League Bound?

"Look at this," Max said as he burst into their room. They were getting ready for the awarding ceremony for all athletes who won medals, but an article had popped up that Max needed to discuss. Even if it was posted mere minutes ago, it had already garnered thousands of likes and reposts from the public.

His teammates turned toward him, curiosity seen in their eyes. Kai merely shook his head in amusement as Max read the article out loud.

"Kai Guo has been the talk of the town ever since the Global Games had started. From being the main character with Fernando Ching in the opening ceremony to unexpectedly snagging the silver medal with his talented teammates," he started off.

"They called us talented," Max chuckled, getting distracted.

Jimmy sighed and shook his head. "Just continue reading."

Max cleared his throat and continued. "Now it seems the high school prodigy is ready to take the next big leap in his career?'

"After being spotted with Ethan Henderson, one of the shareholders for the FBA and the current coach of the L.A. Lions, people are wondering whether Kai would be transitioning to the pro league so quickly."

Kai pursed his lips. Word had gotten around already?

"Adding fuel to the fire is a recent statement from Mr. Wang, a representative for the national basketball association, who confirmed that he has formally proposed for Kai to join the Beijing team. While Kai has yet to confirm the move himself, fans have been speculating, especially after his stellar performance in the recent Nationals tournament."

"Is this true?" Max asked, turning to Kai with wide eyes.

Kai was about to respond, but then they were called by a staff member to proceed to the garden. He smirked as his fellow players groaned in disappointment.

"Let's go," he said with a grin.

Finally, they made their way out to the garden. It was a breathtaking sight. The lush greenery and decorations made the event appear very elegant. Players from all sports gathered to celebrate their hard-fought victories, receiving plaques to honor their contributions to the game.

Amidst all the players who had gardened a medal, Kai's name was the one cheered the most. As fans packed the venue, they screamed his name in unison.

"Kai! Kai! Kai!"

It was clear who the evening's star was.

Even among his teammates, Kai's popularity stood out. Max, Zheng, and Jian exchanged amused glances as the crowd continued to chant.

"You're really like an idol now," Max said, shaking his head.

"It's worse," Zheng said. "Even girls at my school want his number."

Jian clicked his tongue. "Kimmy also said she likes him again."

Kai grinned, a little embarrassed but thankful for the attention.

As the ceremony progressed, players began discussing their next steps. The conversation quickly turned to futures beyond the court.

"So, where are you going now?" Max asked, nudging Zheng.

Zheng smiled, looking thoughtful. "I'll be joining the Beijing team with Jian," he said. "We'll also be in college together, so it's a good balance."

Max nodded approvingly. "Makes sense. Me? I've got one more year of high school left. Can't let the Shizi Dogs win again without a fight."

Kai chuckled at that. "You guys are already behind. My team is getting better and better."

"We'll see about that when I come back," Max boasted.

Jimmy, standing nearby, decided to join in on their conversation. "I'll keep playing for Juren High," he said.

Jian turned to him with raised eyebrows. "Didn't you say your dad offered you a spot on Beijing's team, too?"

"He did," Jimmy shrugged. "But I'm not ready yet."

"Woah," Kai said. "You're actually admitting that?"

"Shut up," Jimmy clicked his tongue. "I just—don't want to hear other people say I only got in because of my dad. Aside from that, I'll prove to him that I can do it on my own."

The group fell silent for a moment before glancing at each other with smiles.

Finally, Kai broke the silence with a grin. "Well said, man. Respect."

The conversation turned to Kai, as it inevitably would. Zheng leaned in with a knowing look. "How about you, Kai? Are the rumors true?"

The question hung in the air, and all eyes turned to Kai. He opened his mouth to respond, but before he could get a word out, he was gently pulled aside by an event organizer.

"Exclusive interview," the woman explained with an apologetic smile as she ushered him to a press area.

Kai stood under the bright lights, microphone in hand, his face projected onto a large screen for the crowd to see.

"What's next for you, Kai?" the interviewer asked, her tone professional but eager.

Kai took a moment to gather his thoughts, his gaze steady. "First, I want to thank everyone who's supported me throughout this journey. It's been an honor representing my team and my country."

The crowd erupted in cheers, and Kai paused, waiting for the noise to settle before continuing.

"But now," he said, "it's time for the next chapter."

The interviewer's eyes widened, sensing a big announcement. "And what is that next chapter?"

Kai smiled, his confidence shining through. "I'm going to the L.A. Lions."

The revelation sent the crowd into a frenzy. Gasps and cheers filled the venue when they realized that the article was right.

The interviewer struggled to keep her composure; her voice was almost drowned out by the noise. "You'll be the youngest player ever to join the L.A. Lions and only the third player from our country to achieve this. How does that feel?"

Kai's smile widened. "It feels surreal. I'll be turning 17 in a couple of weeks, which is the minimum age for the league. It's a huge honor, but it's also a responsibility. I'm ready to give it my all."

The interviewer nodded. "Any final words for your fans?"

Kai looked directly into the camera. "Look forward to me."