Sunday
The seats began to fill in, with a lot more people attending this game than the first two rounds. The Louds and the Prouds all took seats close or exactly where they were the last game. Neither family was willing to be late for this game. Zoey had taken the time to design signs to cheer on Michael, while the Louds had also made signs to cheer on Lynn and Lincoln along with Lynn Sr. Penny had proposed bringing back LPDZ for this game, but ultimately the group decided against it and dropped the idea, unsure how this would even work in the game.
"Mrs. Loud, I know I complimented your son and daughter last game, but today we're on opposite sides of the battlefield." Oscar said.
"Forgive my husband. Once the game starts, he can be a little too enthusiastic." Trudy said.
"Oh it's no big deal. Who doesn't mind a little competitive spirit? After all it's all in good fun." Rita said.
The teams came out to the court.
Both Rita and Oscar started yelling.
"MICHAEL! LET'S GO MICHAEL!"
"GO LINCOLN! GO LYNN!"
"SHOW THESE FOLKS HOW WE DO IT IN CALI!"
"MAMA LOUD RAISED SOME CHAMPIONS! SHOW THESE LOSERS WHAT YOU'VE GOT!"
"COME ON! KICK THESE LIONS'-"
"I think that's enough Oscar." Trudy said pulling him back down.
"What? I was just gonna say to the curb." He said, an innocent smile on his face."
"Lynn right? Omar. You can definitely ball. Just know you got my respect." Omar said.
"Thanks." Lynn said.
"But that respect not gonna stop us from trying to beat you." Omar said.
"Wouldn't have it any other way." Lynn said.
She got to Michael.
"Hey! Michael." Lynn said.
"You're Lynn! I just have to say, I love your game girl!" Michael said.
"Thanks dude! You're great too!" Lynn said.
"Now that we've gotten the compliments out the way, don't let me break your ankles out there!" Michael said.
"If we don't shoot you out of the gym first."
"May the best team win!" Michael said, as each gave each other fist bumps.
"And we are live from the city of Wizardville in California! Welcome to the final round of Wizard Kelly's 'Who's Got Game Tournament' I'm Mike Green, and with me are Clark Hudson and Seth Van Bundy to call this game."
"And it is an honor to be able to call not only one, but three games in this tournament. Some real talent here on display. I know this isn't the NBA, but if you love basketball and you've watched up to this point, then I can assure you you haven't wasted your time or money." Clark said. The second game they called was the Hawks game against the Samurai.
"I'm with you there Clark. This tournament has been fun to watch so far." Seth said.
"And these two superstars have been fun to watch as well. Michael Collins and Lynn Loud. Two players, who have been doing a little bit of everything for their respective teams to get them to this point. Lynn Loud, who has been first in all stats across all players in this tournament. Points, steals, assists, rebounds, blocks. And even minutes played. The very definition of an all-in-one player. But her counterpart isn't a pushover either. Michael, who's average second or third in all but rebounds, where he's fourth. Second in assists, second in blocks, third in minutes, points, steals, and minutes played. The only person averaging higher than him in all of those stats but minutes being Wesley from the Dragons, the Lions' semifinals opponent."
"Sensational basketball players. It is absolutely incredible to able to see these two go at it for 28+ minutes." Clark said.
"And as we get ready for the opening tip, what do you think will be the factor or factors for one of these teams to come out as the victor?" Mike asked.
"There's two things I always talk about, the others and effort. And in this particular game, they're the most important. I know that we paint a picture at times that it's always one player single-handedly beating their opposing teams by themselves, but that is a complete misconception. This is team basketball for a reason. When the others put their footprint on the game, and it doesn't even have to be a lot of points; it doesn't even have to be points at all, it can be a timely shot or a good screen. Nobody can do it alone. But it's also the effort. There's a lot of things that you can teach in sports and in real life. But you can't teach effort. If you try your best, there's absolutely nothing I can take away from you for that. Prime example, the last game we called with this same Hawks team. Down 17 at half. They could have mailed it in. But they stayed with it. Didn't quit. And that effort and toughness is the reason they're here in the finals for a chance to win this tournament." Clark said.
"And I agree with you on the effort part. But I think its more of the others for this game. Whichever team can find the best way for their other players to get involved will win this game. Because, your best players may not have the easiest time in getting points. Someone else has to help take the load off and make it easier. Most of the time, when someone else or a combination of players make some good contributions, then that team is bound to have success and win. And I say most of the time, because sometimes that doesn't hold to be true. But most of the time it does." Seth said.
"And the Hawks control the tip as this final round is underway!" Mike announces.
" TJ. Passes the ball to Michael. He's got Liam on him. He sizes up his defender and gets to the hoop for the finish! And he's all smiles as he runs down the court!" Mike said. 2-0
"Now the Lions have their first possession. Liam, passes it to Lynn. She quickly gets to work with Omar defending him. Fadeway jumper. Misses. The Hawks corral it."
"And you see Omar there, looking forward to challenge. But I say that all of them are going to have to be looking forward to the challenge of guarding her and vice versa for Michael. Because there are gonna be times where one isn't enough." Clark said.
"Now here's TJ again. Passes it Michael. This time on the left block. Back turned on his defender. Who is Lincoln this time. He throws it over Lincoln to a cutting Omar who lays it in!" 4-0
"Moving without the basketball. Giving yourself an easier look to score. Nice job." Clark said.
"Now here's Liam. Passes it to Lincoln. Lynn, calls for it. Lincoln, takes it himself instead and gets it to go!" 4-2
"Sorry, Lynn." Lincoln said.
"It's all good little bro. If that's what it takes for us to win. This is a team game after all." Lynn said. Lincoln smiled back at her big sister.
"And it looks both of them are already on good understanding about that last play." Mike said.
"She understands what it takes to win. She knows that the others are going to have to get involved. Leading in all stats in this entire tournament and still not making it all about herself. Those are the types of players that I'd coach any day." Clark said.
"And the shot is blocked by Lynn! And she takes it and scores!" 4-4.
"COME ON Y'ALL! TAKE SMARTER SHOTS!" Oscar yelled out.
"Michael. Passes it to Omar. Fakes the three, drives and dishes it to Tookie who's right there for an easy deuce!" 6-4 Omar daps Tookie as they run down the court.
"Lincoln. Has it again. Passes it to Diane. Who loses the handle. But she gets it and gives to Paula. And there was a foul before the pass. That's going to be on Jason Thompson, his first. And the first foul of this game."
"Looks like when she lost the handle, he wasn't expecting it. He tried to get it but it was too late then. Ended up catching her on the arm rather than the ball." Seth said.
"Diane the inbound. She gets it to Paula who's in the corner. She passes it Lynn, who takes the shot and buries the three! And the Lions have their first lead of the game!" 7-6.
"As you can see the family and friends giving their support." Mike said as audiences on TV see the camera focusing on Lola and Lana holding signs to show support for their family.
"A game within a game here. Because you've got the family and friends... particularly the friends, on the Hawks side, showing their support as well." Clark points out as the camera focuses on Oscar yelling again.
"Michael, takes the ball up. Lynn on him now. He moves to his right. He passes to TJ. Who shoots the 12 foot midrange. And rattles it home." 8-7.
"Both teams getting the others involved early. We'll see how that translates in the rest of the game." Seth said.
"And Paula is fouled on a jumpshot! That's going to be 3 free throws and a foul on Tookie!"
"That's just being undisciplined. There was no reason to be that aggressive in going after the block." Seth said. She goes to the line and makes the first.
"And so we get our first batch of substitutions." Lincoln is subbed out for Kevin. Diane is subbed for Amy. Jason is subbed out for Murray.
Paula goes to attempt the second.
"So before the game started, I saw you giving a look to Seth when he made his comment about other players' contributions leading to their team's victory most of the time, Clark." Mark said as she makes the second.
"Come on man if you were gonna say something about it say it then." Clark said, smiling as he did so.
"If you disagreed with me just say it! We're friends here right?" Seth said.
She makes the third. 10-8.
"I gave you that look because I know you added that to cover yourself in case you were wrong in this game." Clark said as all three commentators were still grinning from ear to ear.
"Come on Clark, we've both covered this game for years. You're telling me you haven't seen not one team have all of their guys clicking and they still find a way to lose because of one person willing them to a win?" Seth asked.
"And Murray already making his mark as he gets an easy score over the smaller Amy." Mike said. 10-10
"No, I have. But I've known you for years too. You wouldn't have had to explain yourself like that if you weren't trying to cover your bases. The audience knows what you mean." Clark said.
"Oh what a nifty move by Lynn!" 12-10
"A great move right there. Using the rim to stop the defender, which in this case was Omar, from blocking the shot. And a nice finish." Seth said.
"And then there was the play before where Murray scored. Using his height to his advantage. And they've got a smaller player on him again." Seth added.
"TJ sees this and gives it to him and he does the rest. 4 quick points by Murray off the bench. 3 and a half to go in this first." Mike said. 12-12
"If they're going to keep putting a smaller player on him I'd just keep feeding him. It's just too easy." Seth said.
"Do I have to explain why that makes sense too Clark?" Seth said, grinning.
"You don't, you're good! You don't have to explain common sense to me or your audience." Clark said in a joking manner.
"Kevin. Misses the floater. TJ with the rebound. They cut off Murray this time. He passes it to Michael who's on the right wing. Sets and shoots the three." It misses.
"Lynn. She'll give Kevin the ball. He passes it off to Paula. She'll shoot it just inside the arc. Misses it but a rebound by Lynn. She'll take it back and reset. She passes it to Amy. She'll try a three. Way off."
"Here's Michael. He's got Kevin on him now."
"And you see they're taking turns in guarding him, trying to give him different looks to see if that'll cause some fits for him." Clark said.
"He passes it to Tookie. He'll take it inside, but he loses it. Knocked out of bounds, last touched by the Lions. They'll have 11 seconds to shoot." They inbound to Murray. "Murray. Now he's got Paula on him. He passes it to TJ. He'll take inside but he misses. Michael takes it away from Liam! And he'll take it in for an easy layup!" 14-12
"Might want to hold on to the ball next time." Michael said.
"Just a great heads-up play there Michael. Gets an unsuspecting Liam. Picks his pocket and gets two points." Clark said.
The quarter ends with a cold stretch for both teams. 18-15.
The second quarter continued this cold stretch as the defenses made adjustments to try and contain the opposing team's offense. Jamie, a taller player for the Lions, but slightly shorter than Murray was subbed in for Paula to try and contain Murray. Lincoln was also back in for Kevin.
"Almost a minute and a half into the quarter and a bucket has finally been made. Nice move there by Michael." 20-15
"He's a walking bucket. His team needed to score, so he said give me the basketball and let me go to work." Clark said.
"Lincoln. Answers with a three!" 20-18
"TJ, quickly gets down the court and sends it to Murray. Who turns. And has it stolen by Lynn! She takes it by herself and scores!" 20-20
"A one-woman fast-break there. Takes it down hill, avoids the defender trying to foul. Great finish." Clark said.
"TJ, passes it out to Murray who gives it back. Murray sets a pick for a switch. Now Jamie's on him. Crossover, passes it to Michael. Catch and shoot. And gets it to go! Tough shot there by Michael!" 22-20
"Catch and shoot. And turning away from the basket for a fadeaway elbow jumper. That's a tough shot to make." Seth commented.
"Lynn's got Murray on her now. She throws it off his foot and it's a kickball. 14 seconds on the shot clock." A referee blows a whistle. "And a timeout is taken by the Lions. They'll talk it over."
"Okay. For this play to work, we'll need Diane in the game. So here's the play I want you guys to do. Lynn, you'll hand the ball off to Diane. Then, you'll cut around to the basket. Once the defense collapses, you'll send it back out to Jamie, who'll send it back to Diane to take a shot."
"I don't think that's a play in the playbook Dad." Lynn said.
"I know." He said, smiling.
"On the inbounds pass. Lynn, hands it to Diane. And Lynn quickly moves. She gets the pass with Michael defending her. She passes it Jamie who's in the corner. He'll give it to Diane, who quickly takes the shot. But misses."
"A great look though. Just couldn't knock down the shot." Seth said.
"Michael. Gets the handoff from TJ. Who sets, shoots. And scores! He's got 11 points to lead all scorers! Still smiling and talking as he goes down the court." 25-20
"And I'd be smiling too if they're going to play that type of defense on me. This is just a step in rhythm three. The defender is just too far back." Clark said.
"Less than 4 minutes left in the second quarter. Diane, from the hand off from Liam. She'll send it over to Lynn who gets in for the layup!" 25-22
"Looks like her defender just lost track of where Lynn was for a second. Next thing you know, she's able to get a layup." Seth said.
"Don't try to sugarcoat it man. That's just bad defense. You can't just let someone like that score easy baskets like that." Clark said.
"No I'm not defending it I'm just trying to give an explanation of why it happened." Seth said. Tookie throws a pass intended for Michael out of bounds. He pats his chest as a "my bad" gesture.
"And I'm just saying; It's too easy. You have to understand who you're up against. When you're up against talent like Lynn, you don't just 'lose track' of them like that. Because all it takes is just one bucket for players of that caliber. Then next thing you know they're making near impossible shots with defense draped all over 'em." Clark said as Jamie makes the jumpshot. 25-24
"Normally he doesn't take those types of shots but he shot it and made it here."
"When you're playing for a championship, you'll take all the help you can get from your players. Even if its the most unexpected of ways." Clark said.
"Omar. Passes it to Michael. He gives it up to Tookie. He pulls up to shoot, but he gets stripped on the way up by Diane! She'll give it to Lincoln who's fouled to stop the momentum by Michael. That'll be his first. It's been a relatively clean game so far. Only 6 foul calls. No team has been in the bonus at all."
"Speaking of fouls." Seth started.
"Oh here we go again." Clark said, smiling as he says it.
Seth starts laughing a little before he starts. "I can't tell you how much I hate the take fouls. It's just a gimmicky way to game the system and stop the momentum instead of playing defense."
"Folks, if this is your first time hearing us. He'll talk your ear off about how he can't stand take fouls every time it happens." Clark said, still grinning.
"Well it's true! I don't! I know we're joking about it but until they change it I'm going to keep complaining about it!" Seth said, grinning a little as well even though he was serious about the take fouls.
"Nice pass! But the defense is there to protect the rim. Lincoln shoots away from the outstretched hands of Tookie. And gets it to go." 26-25
"As for the take fouls, the NBA has considered to make a vote on it. But voting has yet to officially start." Mike said.
"Well I hope they do choose to make a vote on it. If anything, what they should do is penalize the team that commits it. You want to do it? You're gonna have to pay a price for it. Make it to where the take foul is the same as a technical foul. The team that gets fouled, as Omar misses the three; the team that gets fouled gets a technical free throw and possession." Seth said.
"Come on Michael! Lock her up!" Oscar said.
"Lynn. Gets the ball from Lincoln. She has Michael on her. She dribbles. Pulls up! And hits the three! A 9-0 run for the Lions as we hit the 2:30 mark. You see Lynn talking to Michael as both of them are grinning from ear to ear." 29-25
"Alright. I'll remember that." Michael said, shaking his head as he smiles.
"I'm scoring on you again next play. Calling it." Lynn said.
"TJ. Gives it up to Michael. Crosses over. Tries to shake Lynn as the crowd gets louder."
"Don't let him rock you sis!" Luna said.
"Take the ball!" Lana said.
"He passes it Murray who gets blocked by Jamie at the rim!"
"Lincoln. He'll give it to Lynn who's calling for it. She'll move in. Michael stays in front. She'll shoot! And rattles it in! Timeout Hawks! The Lions are on an 11-0 run! As we have 1:41 remaining in the quarter." 31-25
"And that's what I was talking about before. She saw one bucket go in off a defensive lapse. Then she knocks down a three. Now she takes her time. Waits. Michael's there to contest without fouling. But it doesn't matter! Great defense, but better offense!" Clark said.
"We have to be smarter with our shots! We also need to show more help defense on Lynn! Make her think twice about what she wants to do with the ball! Because we're not getting her to really think she's able to make plays for her team! Alright? Don't quit! Just keep playin'! We've been down 17 and won. We came come back from this! Michael, go ahead and get some rest." Coach Collins said.
"You guys are doing awesome! Keep sharing it with each other! Keep playing team ball! We keep playing like this we'll win! I promise!" Lynn Sr. said.
"Out of the timeout, the teams have made some substitutions. Adam comes in for TJ. Tommy for Michael, and Jason for Murray. And on the Lions side, Maya subs in for Lincoln. And Kevin subs in for Jamie."
"Omar gets the inbound. Now he'll pass it to Adam, who's just outside the lane on the right. Now he'll give it to Jason who's right behind. He'll pull up. And scores!" 31-28
"A great pass right there. Passes it behind him. Able to use his body to ward off Jason's defender long enough for him to get a good look. And he knocks it down. Nicely done." Seth said.
"Lynn. Gives it to Maya. Who falls asleep mid play and causes her defender to run into her! And that's gonna be a foul on the Hawks."
"Come on! She literally fell asleep mid play!" Coach Collins protested to the referee. The ref shakes his head and explains to him why that's a foul on his player, Tommy.
"Unintentional. But it leads to a foul from the Hawks." Seth said.
"Side out now. Maya will throw it in. She'll pass it to Lynn. Long three. No good."
"That was a heat check." Clark said.
"Adam. He'll take it to the free throw line and shoot. And scores." 31-30
"Defenders were backpedaling, he took full advantage." Clark said.
"A little over a minute left in the first half." Mike said.
"Diane. She'll give it to Liam. He takes it to the hoop. But he'll pass it back out to reset. Jamie. Dribbles. Makes his move. Gets to the hole. No good."
"42 seconds left in the first half. Omar. Jason sets the pick. He'll drive and then give it to Jason for the score!" 32-31
"Simple pick and roll at the top of the key there. Gets it to go." Seth said.
"Kevin. No look pass. Lynn will try it again. And hits!" 34-32
"Tookie tries to answer. No good. Rebound Lions. 3 second difference between the shot clock and game clock. Lynn will hold it." Lynn holds it for about 6 seconds. "Now she'll give it to Liam." Liam tries to find an angle to give her the ball, but the Hawks were denying any passing routes.
"Liam passes it to Maya. She'll shoot. Before falling asleep again! Misses it. 11 seconds for the Hawks. Shot clock is turned off. Omar holds it. Now he accelerates. And finishes!" 36-32
There were two seconds left but the Lions let the clock expire.
"And we go into half time with a close one. 36-32 Hawks. We'll see you when we return for some second half action." Mike said.
Once the second half returned, play elevated in the third. Michael erupted to have a total of 34 points, while Lynn wasn't too far behind with 32. Other notable scorers were Omar with 15, and Lincoln who had 13. Despite Michael's big third quarter, the Lions were only down by 4. 58-54.
"And we begin the fourth quarter. Where in the previous quarter, Michael was absolutely sensational."
"Hitting you from so many different areas. The mid-range. The three. Attacking the basket. Just a complete third quarter for him." Seth said.
"The Hawks will inbound. They'll throw it in to Michael. He dribbles. Crosses over and gets past his opponent to score!" 60-54
"Defender just got left in no man's land. Nobody there to stop him after the initial defense. Just too easy. Which is exactly what he's saying to the other team." Clark said as Michael says "too easy."
"Lynn. Gives it up to Paula. She'll take a long three. Doesn't get it to go. But Liam is there to clean it up!" 60-56
"Those long threes when they don't go in will usually be there for an offensive rebound because of how most of them bounce off the rim. Great effort there by Liam to secure it and score." Seth said.
"Michael. He'll dance. He passes it off to Tookie. Who gives it up to Omar to take the two. And gets it to go! Omar with 17 points."
"That two man game between Omar and Tookie seems to be giving the Lions some fits." Seth commented.
"Liam. Gets up the floor. He'll pass it to Lincoln. Lynn's calling for it. He'll give it to her. Now she'll get to the left block to shoot. And hits. 60-58 with about 5:45 to go."
"Michael. He'll give it to Jason. And he'll give it to TJ who'll try to take it himself! But doesn't get the desired result. Now the Lions will take it. Liam. He gives it to Diane. She'll shoot a three. In and out! Rebound Lincoln! And he turns around and scores! And we're tied with 5:25 left to go in this fourth."
"Tookie gets the pass from TJ at the right wing. He'll drive." He knocks down Liam, his current defender. The whistle blows. "And that's going to be an offensive foul! That's his third personal!"
The replay is shown for the crowd and TV audiences. "Looks like when he threw out his elbow to drive, he caught Liam in the neck." Seth said.
"You okay?" Tookie says, going to check on him, when he realized he caught him in the neck.
Liam nods. "Yeah." He wasn't angry because he knew it was inadvertent.
"Lynn. Gives it Lincoln. He'll set a screen. Defender gets around it. She'll give it back to Lincoln who takes the three! And gets it to go! He's got 18 points!" 63-60
"We talked about the two man game for the Hawks. How about the two sibling game? Lincoln's defender goes to help. Leaves Lincoln alone, and he knocks down the shot." Clark said.
"Omar. Takes it up. He'll give it to TJ. Passes it to a moving Michael. He'll drive and pass it to a cutting Omar! We're seeing some great team basketball here in this quarter!" 63-62
"Little over four minutes to go. Liam. Gives it to Paula. She'll pass it to Lincoln. He'll elevate. And connects! 20 points for Lincoln! And a timeout on the floor." 65-62 This is a required media timeout that was charged to the Hawks.
"Alright! We're getting into the toughest part of this game! The defense is going to get tighter! We might not be able to make every initial shot attempt! But you can't give up! Crash the boards! Same thing on the other end! Don't let them get second chance attempts! Some of their points in this quarter have come from exactly that! Offensive rebounds! Let's go! We're down 3! But we're not out of it! Come on everybody, bring it in!" Coach Collins said as they bring the fists in one circle.
"Keep playing team basketball! I know Lynn has scored and done a lot for us but she's going to need help if we're going to win! If I have to I'll come up with another wacky play! And this goes for everybody! Especially to you Lincoln!" Lynn Sr. said.
"What is it coach?" Lincoln asked.
"I just want to say that I'm proud of you! I'm proud of you all! Effort is all I could ask from you and you're giving it! Now go out there and have some fun! But most importantly, win this game!" Lynn Sr. said.
"And as we come from this timeout; this fourth quarter, believe it or not has been about Lincoln and Omar. The entire team has given some great help to their stars. But Lincoln and Omar have been the unsung heroes in this entire game. I said it before that whoever can get the others involved the best will win this game. It's been even so far. We'll see who can get the edge for these last 3 minutes and change." Seth said.
"And its been even so far. But that's where the effort comes in. Who wants it more? Because the shots might not come easy. Whether its from pressure or tighter defense or a mixture of the two. Who has the stronger will?" Clark said.
"We'll find out soon enough as the Hawks get ready to inbound. TJ throws it in to Michael. He'll go to work quickly. Defense closes in. He'll kick out. Omar. Thought about it, but passes it to Tookie who shoots it with no hesitation. And he misses it. Rebound Lions. "
"I think Omar should have taken that shot. He had the right intentions, but I would have lived with him taking the shot. He's earned that right with how he's played." Clark said.
"Lincoln. He'll give it to Diane. She dribbles for a bit before passing it out to Paula. With another quick pass to Lynn. Who pass it quickly to Lincoln. He'll shoot. And connects! They say his foot was on the line, so it'll be a two-pointer." 67-62
"Swing. Swing. Good, quick movement of the ball. And Lincoln is able to get it to go." Seth said.
"3 minute mark has been reached. Lions are up by five. Michael. He gets it after he sets a screen. He'll shoot. And misses but gets it back! He'll reset. Calls for TJ to come over. He hands the ball off to him. TJ. Looks." He has the ball up in his hands looking for somewhere to pass it. "7 to shoot. Gives it to Omar, nearly stolen. Has to get it up! He'll shoot! And hits! As the shot clock was running down!" 67-64
"This time he keeps it. Notices the shot clock's running down. And rises over his defender to make a big two pointer." Clark said.
"2:35 left to go. Lions with it. Lynn. She'll give it to Paula who's inside! And she gets the easy score! 69-64."
"Just great awareness right there. Paula quickly puts it up. Lions up by 5." Seth said.
"TJ takes it up the court. Michael. Comes over to get it. Now he accelerates in a burst of speed! And gets it to go!" 69-66
"Puts his head down. Knows his team needs a bucket and gets it to go." Clark said.
"2:11 remaining. Lynn. Takes it herself and misses but Lincoln is there to get it! He'll pass it back to Lynn. Who will slow it down."
"Get a better shot. No need to rush. I like it." Clark said.
"Lincoln. Sets the pick to get the switch. Now Michael's on her." She dribbles between the legs before trying to beat him to the right but he's able to stay in front.
"Nice one Michael!" Penny said.
"Just stay in front of her! She can't shoot over you!" Oscar called out.
"Lynn. Will try again. Too strong. Rebound Hawks. Michael. Gets it down the court quickly and he'll lay it up! Wow! A spectacular array of moves!" 69-68
"You're telling me. That is just incredible! Gets through two defenders! Spins past another. And is able to finish!" Clark said.
"Liam. Passes it to Paula but it's intercepted by Tookie! He'll give it to Omar. Who gives it to Michael for the score! And the Hawks are in the lead with 1:32 left! Timeout Lions!" 70-69
"That's what I'm talking about!" Coach Collins said, fired up as his team comes over to him for the timeout.
"We're down but we're still not done yet! Huddle up everybody! I've got an idea." Lynn Sr. said.
"We're up 1! But in a game like this, 1:32 is a lot of time left! Keep playing! Don't stop until that final buzzer sounds. Alright? We worked hard to get the lead! But now we've got to work even harder to keep it!" Coach Collins said.
"The Lions will inbound it now. Each team now has one timeout remaining."
"If I'm the Lions, I would run a play for Lynn or Lincoln. They've been your two best players." Clark said.
"And on the flipside for the Hawks. You can't give either of those two space. Make someone else beat you. Contest. But you CANNOT foul." Seth said.
"So Liam will inbound. He'll give to Lynn. Now she'll go to work. She gives to Lincoln in the corner. Fakes! And passes it to Paula. She'll try a three. That hits the backboard! But Lynn gets it! And Lincoln will come over to set a screen. No! He gets it from Lynn who sets the screen! And he'll shoot the three! IT'S GOOD! Lincoln drains the three! And the Lions are in the lead by 2 with a 1:11 left!" 72-70
"I don't think I've ever seen a play like this before. And I say it's a play because that shot off the backboard looked intentional. Lynn gets the ball and dribbles it a bit to make the defense think she's making a play. Then she passes it Lincoln who fakes the three. Rebound off the Paula miss as if she knew it was going to miss. Fake screen. And then you see the rest." Clark said.
"Hawks better get it over!" Mark says as they were about to get an 8 second violation from the full court pressure the Lions were applying. "TJ. Less than a minute left! He'll give it to Michael. Tookie sets a screen. He'll shoot! Misses but Jason gets the rebound." He passes it Michael. "Michael tries again. This time he connects!" 72-72
"Diane. Quickly passes it Lincoln. He'll pass it to Liam. It's tipped! But Lynn is there to get it. She'll hand it to Lincoln. Who gets downhill for the layup!" 74-72
"46 seconds remaining! Omar. Crosses over. Michael gets it. Gets immediately double teamed. Jason. Wide open. But he shoots an airball!"
"38 seconds left! Liam! Gives it to Lincoln. Falling away! Won't go but Lynn is there to save it! Diane gets it. She'll try a three. PUTS IT IN! AND THE LIONS ARE UP BY 5! 31 seconds remaining! Timeout Hawks!" The Lions surround Diane in celebratory fashion.
"Right place at the right time! Lynn. Great effort to save it! Look what I found! Diane scores a big time three!" Clark says.
"THAT'S MY GIRL!" Rita yells, shaking Lori in the process.
"Alright! We need a shot! But we need to make sure we take our time! Don't rush it! Michael! I want you to inbound it. Then once we get the ball in, I want the person that gets the inbounds pass to give it to Tookie. He'll hand it back to Michael and you set a screen for him! If you need it, Omar can set one too. Then, he can decide if he wants to take it inside or shoot an outside shot! But it'll make sure he has a good look! If you take the outside shot, you're going to have to shoot it quickly! But if you go inside! I want you to get to that free throw area or just inside the paint to float it up! That'll make sure the defender is less likely to block your shot. Alright?" Coach Collins said.
"Got it Coach." Michael said.
"Okay. I know they need to score and they know it too! Now, they're probably going to run something for Michael! I want you guys to play man-to-man. But when he looks like he's about to do something with the ball, I want someone to come over and double! Make sure to block his vision so he can't pass!" Lynn Sr. said.
"And as we come from this timeout, Hawks have the ball. But Michael will be the one that's inbounding." Mike said.
"More than likely they're doing this so it'll be easier to give him the ball." Seth commented.
"He throws it to TJ, who's in the backcourt. You can throw it in the backcourt on these inbound passes. He gets it up. 25 seconds. Passes it to Tookie. Bounce pass to Michael. Lynn's on him. Tookie sets a pick. Lynn attempts to fight around it. He'll get inside. Puts up the floater and it's good!" 77-74
"The Lions will bring it up court. Both teams have a foul to give. 19 seconds. Shot clock is turned off. Omar tries to put pressure on Liam. But he gets it across. 15 seconds." Liam passes it to Lynn but he was fouled intentionally. "And there's a foul before the pass. They did have a foul to give so it'll be a side out."
"So the Hawks sub in Murray for Jason for some length. And he's guarding the inbounds pass now." The referee checks to make sure Murray isn't over the inbounds line. When he sees that he isn't the whistle is blown to begin play.
At the three second mark, Liam was able to get it in to Paula. As soon as it gets to her she gets immediately fouled. Paula makes both. 79-74
Because the Hawks spent their last timeout, they would have to advance it from the backcourt. Michael quickly runs with the ball and passes it to Omar who takes a quick three. He hits, but at the cost of 3 seconds. 11 seconds remain. 79-77
When the Lions inbound the ball, Tookie attempts to go for a steal but is unsuccessful so he fouls. 8 seconds remain.
Lincoln is sent to the free throw line. He makes both. 81-77
"Michael. Takes it up quickly with Lynn on him. He shoots a quick three. He misses but gets it back to try again. And gets it to go! But there's only two seconds remaining!" 81-80
When the Lions have trouble inbounding, they take their last timeout, which allows them to advance it.
They're able to get in and foul Lincoln immediately.
"Lincoln Loud. He's been exceptional in this game. Who can ask for a better running mate than their own sibling?"
"He's been everything that the Lions needed to win this game. A second option for scoring. Made some good passes. Not to mention he's been hitting big free throws, as he makes another. Outside of Michael and Lynn, he's been the best player on the court." Seth said.
"The lead is extended to two. The Hawks do not have a timeout to advance it." The TV camera focuses on Coach Collins, who has his arms folded. Pacing. "As Coach Collins looks on at his team." Lincoln attempts the second. "And he missed it! Rebound Tookie! One second to go he's gotta put it up!" The buzzer sounds as the ball is in mid-air.
"NOOOOOOOOO!" Oscar said as he saw the ball lowering.
The shot grazes the rim. The only achievement that can be given for the shot was that it wasn't an airball as it wasn't close otherwise.
"And that's it! It's over! The Lions win the tournament! 82-80!" Mike said.
"A great game by both teams! They played their hearts out." Clark said.
"And you can see the mutual respect being given to one another." Mike said. The two teams shake hands and talk to each other.
"Heck of a coaching job. Good game man. You've got a heck of a player in Lynn. And Lincoln." Coach Collins said as the two embrace.
"Thanks. You too! That Michael is a star!" Lynn Sr. said.
"Good game Lynn. You, and your brother certainly have game." Michael said.
Lynn laughs. "I'm sure my sis Luan would love that one. Good game."
Omar found Lincoln.
"Lincoln! You got game bro. You played your tail off. I can tell you got a lot of heart, 'cause you played like it. Good game man. You deserve it." Omar said.
"Same to you! You guys were really good!" Lincoln said.
Omar taps him in the back twice before moving on.
"Lynn! I said you had game before we played! And you more than proved me right! Good game!" Omar said.
"Thanks dude. You did great yourself! This team has to be one of the best bball teams I've played!" Lynn said.
Lincoln and Michael are seen giving each other fist bumps.
"You guys lost?" Adrian asked, shocked.
"Unfortunately. But like I said, it was the most fun I've had playing a basketball game." Michael said. "They weren't even mad."
"But the more important thing is: Do you feel any better?" Michael asked.
"Yeah. I do. Thanks." Adrian said.
45 Minutes Later
"Dad. I've got to ask something." Adrian said.
"Obviously I'm not going to be able to watch TV until I hear what it is. What is it?" He asked, muting the TV.
"Why are you embarrassed of me for being gay? I'm your son."
"You just don't understand..."
"What don't I understand Dad? I get bullied online on social media and in school. We had to move because of that. I have no friends at school! I would have at least thought I would have a dad that loved me for being me." He said.
"Son... I don't understand this. But the one thing I will never do is hate you. You're a good kid Adrian. And if being you means that you'll stay that way. Then that's okay too." His dad said. "Come here son."
One day Later
Adrian was talking with two other kids that were willing to sit with him. Penny, Maya and the others noticed this.
"I think whatever you told him worked Michael. This is the happiest I've ever seen him." Penny said.
"What can I say? I've got the magic touch." Michael said, noticing Adrian waving to him. He waves back and gives a thumbs up. He notices that Penny and the others already went to the table.
"How could you guys leave me like that? I should go sit with Adrian. Now that I see how fake y'all are." Michael joked as he sat down with Penny and the others.
Epilogue
After the Finals Game
"Sorry guys." Michael said, as he was with the team, the Prouds and his mom.
"Hey, you got nothing to be sorry for man! You balled out!" Sticky said.
"Gave it all you had. Ain't nothing to be ashamed of." Omar said.
"They're right son. You had everything that I asked for this team to have. Effort, toughness and heart!" Coach Collins said, before hugging him.
"I know we lost today. But as a father, you made me proud today son. I love you Michael." He said, sniffing. Although Michael couldn't see it, he could tell he was starting to cry.
"I love you too. Dad." Michael said.
Suga Mama was also praising Rita and Lynn Sr. for raising great kids, secretly admitting to them that as tough as she was on Oscar, she's proud that he is an owner of a business. Afterwards, she goes to Papi.
"I guess this is goodbye Papi. I had a good time." Suga Mama said.
"If only this was goodbye forever." Papi said in Spanish before laughing.
"Ooh man! I just love hearing that man talk!" She said.
"The same couldn't be said for me about you." Papi added in Spanish, laughing again.
"Michael shouldn't be the one that's sorry. It's the rest of that team that should be sorry! In fact, that's exactly what they are! Sorry! Now I'm gonna have to find some way to make up Trudy's money that I lost." Oscar said to Felix.
Trudy and Sunset were talking to Rita and Lynn Sr. about how they deal with all of those children so she wasn't around to hear what Oscar said.
"Trudy's money? Why did you use hers?" Felix said, raising an eyebrow.
"Because, I'm 1 transfer from my limit for the month. I have just enough in my checking to pay for bills. Besides, mi dinero es tu dinero right?"
"Does she know about this?" Felix asked.
"Nope. And what she doesn't know won't hurt her. She won't miss it anyway! It's just a hundred bucks! She spends money on stuff all the time, you know how women like to shop." Oscar said, smiling with Felix.
"Uh Oscar, I just remembered that I promised to go get something to eat for LaCienaga!" Felix said, disappearing in a flash.
"She's right behind me isn't she?" Oscar said to himself.
Oscar heard her growl but it sounded like a jaguar's roar to him.
"How much of that did you hear? I mean...I was just messing around with Felix!" Oscar said laughing a little. Trudy pulls the wheelchair towards her. She then checks her phone.
"Oscar, you said it was a hundred dollars, right?" Trudy asked gently.
"Yes." He said, trying to hide the fear in his voice.
"Then why does it say here that you did $1000?" Trudy asked showing him the transaction where he went to bet on the game
"A thousand dollars!?" Oscar said, grabbing the sides of his face with each hand in shock. "I must have forgotten the decimal."
"Don't worry Trudy, I'll get all of this straightened out." Oscar said.
"Oh you don't need to straight anything out." Trudy said calmly, smiling.
"You're taking this a lot better than I thought!" Oscar said.
"Because when we get home, I'm going to straighten you out." She said, still calm.
Oscar then looked paralyzed in fear.
"Come on Penny! Suga Mama! We're heading back to the car!" Trudy said.
"I'll talk to y'all later!" Penny said to Leni and Lori. She was trying to get advice on finding a good boyfriend and got their numbers as well. She also got Ronnie Anne's number as she thought she was cool too after getting to know her. And vice versa. She had told her about the lawsuit and how she played football for her middle school team.
Suga Mama and Penny caught up to them.
"Penny could you hold BeBe and CeCe please? I have to roll your father along." Trudy asked.
"Sure Mama." Penny said.
"Suga Mama-" Oscar said low
"Whatever you did, I'm not gettin' involved in it. You done brought it on yourself." Suga Mama.
Proud Residence
Once they got home, Oscar went to Penny before she went to her room.
"Penny, you have to help me. Please! I'll let you go to anywhere you want for a whole week! I'll raise your allowance!" He said low.
"Don't help him! He'll get all of the help he needs from me! I'll take care goooood care of him!" Trudy said, entering the living room. "You go on ahead Penny! I know you want to talk to your friends. Oscar also told me he's giving you a bonus in your allowance! He'll give it to you later."
"Thank you Daddy." She said, giving him a kiss on the cheek.
"I didn't-" He started, upset before he saw his wife's face. "I mean I didn't tell you because I wanted to keep a surprise. Trudy! Why did you have to do that?" He said, trying to fake a playful tone.
Penny went upstairs.
"Now... let's talk about that thousand dollars." She said walking up to Oscar.
"Penny. Penny! Penny if you can hear me your daddy needs help! I'll give you more money! I'll let you have a boyfriend!"
But Penny had earbuds in, so she couldn't hear him very well.
Oscar tried to get up and leave. But the boot hindered his movement.
"Come here Oscar! I just want to talk!" Trudy said.
"We'll talk later!" Oscar said before accidentally tripping on the edge of the rug.
"Oh you mine now! Come here!" She said in a more aggressive tone.
"Mama! Felix! Sunset! Michael! Anybody! Help!" He said as he was getting hit by Trudy.
"Who's sorry now?" Trudy said, still hitting him.
"PENNAYYY!" Oscar yelled out.
"Bobby took me to this nice restaurant for a double date at Jean Juan's French Mex Buffet." Lori said through Penny's earbuds.
"So who was the double date with?" Penny asked.
"It was my brother and his sister Ronnie Anne."
"You're lying. Ronnie Anne went out with Lincoln?"
"Yeah. Don't tell them this but I know that they totally still like each other. They just hide it behind their immature pranks."
"Please! Have mercy woman!" Oscar said, trying to crawl away.
"Uh uh! I'm not done with you!" She said, dragging him back.
"You're gonna need more braces, boots, AND casts when I'm done!" Trudy said.
"No. NO! TRUDAYYYYYYYYYY!" Oscar yelled out.
A/N: And that's it! I hope you all enjoyed the story!
Complete list of References in the story:
1."Homework is for Shoobs" T Shirt worn by Adrian is a Randy Cunningham 9th grade ninja Reference
Westbrook: NBA player. KG makes this reference due to his time with the Oklahoma City Thunder, his first NBA team. Coincidentally, he currently plays for the Los Angleles Lakers
Haired Kid with the "Kid with the rare hair disorder" wearing a "Not a dog" shirt: Johnny and Dukey from Johnny Test
Green, Clark Hudson, and Seth Van Bundy: ESPN NBA Commentators Mike Breen, Mark Jackson, and Jeff Van Gundy
entire Ninja team: Teen Ninjas from KND
: Sector V KND along with Numbah 362 as their coach in disguise
Harden, Jessie Mills, and Dan Van Bundy: TNT NBA Commentators Kevin Harlan, Reggie Miller and Stan Van Gundy
