The game began with the referee's whistle.
No. 15 Middle School's center was a rare giant among middle schoolers, standing a full 1.98 meters tall.
The center for Huali Basketball School was only a little over 1.8 meters.
No. 15 Middle School won the jump ball.
They quickly launched a fast break. But they didn't just rush forward blindly; as they sprinted, each player moved into position.
One drove toward the basket, while another settled into the corner to lie in wait.
Others followed behind, ready to go for the rebound.
Wang Yi nodded to himself. No. 15 Middle School's coach seemed fairly professional.
The Point Guard carrying the ball for No. 15 Middle School was very fast. He drove into the paint, used a double clutch in midair to evade Huali's block, and easily laid the ball in.
Now it was Huali's turn to attack.
With no chance to fast-break, the players from Huali Basketball School settled into their half-court offense and began running their plays methodically.
It was clear that Huali Basketball School was more professional. Their half-court offense had a good balance between the perimeter and the interior, with several layers to it.
Some players were also constantly making cuts and weaving around screens.
Before long, Huali's center got excellent position under the basket.
A guard passed him the ball, and the center tried to back down his opponent with his body.
But the opposing center was heavier and stronger, and he couldn't push his way in. So he stepped back, faking a shot. When the opposing center lunged at him, he used a simple up-and-under move to score easily at the rim.
There were no flashy moves, just basic footwork under the basket.
His fundamentals looked pretty solid.
The teams traded baskets, taking turns on offense.