CHAPTER 1: The Memorable Year
Sakuragi can't forget his senior year in High School. That year Japan was dominated by the "The Amazing 2". Sakuragi and Rukawa were the greatest players in Shohoku High.
"The Amazing 2 has done it again! They combined for 64 points." The man in the crowd shouted. "They are amazing, unbelievable."
Sakuragi, Rukawa and the entire Shohoku team went to center and court and shook the hands of their opponent…Kainan.
Shohoku was first in the region and Kainan was second. Both teams were able to qualify for the Inter-high games.
"Finally, Rukawa we've done it." Sakuragi said as he faced Rukawa. "We're number one!" Rukawa smiled with happiness and excitement.
"Yes, Sakuragi we've done it. But it's not over yet. We have to conquer Japan." Rukawa said to Sakuragi with a determined face.
Sakuragi nodded then Rukawa walked to the bench and sat down.
Inter High Finals:
"Rukawa!" Sakuragi shouted as he ran towards the ring.
Rukawa alley-ooped the ball to Sakuragi and Sakuragi dunked the ball with force. The crowd cheered loudly.89-88 Shohoku leading 45 seconds left.
Shohoku's opponent took a time out. The Shohoku players huddled up to listen to coach Anzai.
"Nice work Rukawa and Sakuragi. Keep it up. Now we need defense." Coach Anzai said.
"Shohoku fight!" The team shouted.
The referee blew his whistle and the game continued. #4 had the ball and shot it inside the free throw line and swished through the net. And the crowd went wild.89-90
30 seconds left.
Sakuragi inbound the ball and passed it to Rukawa. Rukawa ran until he passed the half court line. Sakuragi catched up and went to the low post. Rukawa passed it to Sakuragi. Sakuragi attempted a hook shot but missed. 17 Seconds left.
The opponent ran with the ball but Rukawa stole it and tried to push it but was trapped and passed the ball to Sakuragi. 12 Seconds left.
Sakuragi backed down in the low post but was doubled team. 5 Seconds left.
Sakuragi passed the ball to baseline where Rukawa was. Rukawa shot it immediately before the buzzer sounded. The gymnasium was silent all was nervous until the ball swished through the net.
The Shohoku team jumped with joy.
"Finally…#1 in Japan." Rukawa thought to himself.
Rukawa scored 32 points with 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Sakuragi scored 15 points with 13 rebounds as Shohoku won by one.
The MVP was Rukawa and Sakuragi was part of the mythical 5.