Volume One: I Came, I Saw, I Conquered!

Volume One: I Came, I Saw, I Conquered! Chapter Three: Do You Want to Go to March Madness?

The Butler University head coach's office wasn't far from Hinkle Fieldhouse. It took Zhang Yu only five minutes to reach the arena. The others all watched him with anticipation, too. Micah Shulsbury complimented Zhang Yu before changing the subject: "This is the Bulldogs' home court and training facility. It can hold more than ten thousand spectators."

Micah Shulsbury wasn't exaggerating. His predecessor's memories held far too many experiences of being discriminated against after coming to the USA. Another great asset, of course, was his solid, extensive knowledge of basketball tactics.

"Yes!" The players' voices shook the arena.

"I'll always remember the trust the Basketball Operations Department and the director have placed in me." Zhang Yu's expression was utterly sincere.

Although the crowd could far outnumber Butler University's student body of just over four thousand, Indiana was the most basketball-crazed state in the country, and fans were never in short supply.

"Bulldogs, let's go!" everyone shouted in unison before scattering to practice.

When Zhang Yu entered the arena, practice was already underway. The players were working on different drills under the coaching staff's direction.

"Are you satisfied just to make the tournament?" Zhang Yu's brow furrowed.

"Why should we have to watch everyone else play in March Madness and enjoy the attention of the whole country, while we slink away after the regular season? We don't train any less than they do!"

"Bulldogs, let's go!" everyone shouted in unison before scattering to practice.

"Ronan, you're actually late? I've never seen you show up late before!" Mike Green, the Bulldogs' starting small forward, teased him.

"Are you satisfied just to make the tournament?" Zhang Yu's brow furrowed.

"Bulldogs, let's go!" everyone shouted in unison before scattering to practice.

Micah Shulsbury turned his gaze toward the Bulldogs' players and said quietly:

As a long-established NCAA Division I team, the Bulldogs had a lackluster record, but there was no question about their professionalism.

Zhang Yu raised his right hand partway, and everyone understood, stacking their hands on top of his. He shouted:

On game days, many local fans came to Hinkle Fieldhouse and cheered on the Bulldogs alongside Butler's students.

"Come on, come on! Don't hesitate—make your decisions quickly..." Stevens clapped and shouted, eyes fixed on a group working on a combination dribbling and passing drill. He spotted Zhang Yu and greeted him. "Ronan, you're finally here."

"I'll always remember the trust the Basketball Operations Department and the director have placed in me." Zhang Yu's expression was utterly sincere.

The man was a bald Black man who often wore a warm smile. He was responsible for recruiting players to the team.

Another great asset, of course, was his solid, extensive knowledge of basketball tactics.

The Butler University head coach's office wasn't far from Hinkle Fieldhouse. It took Zhang Yu only five minutes to reach the arena.

The players' spirits sank a little.

"The team only gave you a one-year contract, but the Basketball Operations Department took a huge risk on you. Some board members think we should bring in an assistant coach from a top program, someone with more experience, to take over for Rickert."

"Why should we have to watch everyone else play in March Madness and enjoy the attention of the whole country, while we slink away after the regular season? We don't train any less than they do!"

"Ronan, you're actually late? I've never seen you show up late before!" Mike Green, the Bulldogs' starting small forward, teased him.

The players had heard Stevens and turned to look at Zhang Yu.

"I'll always remember the trust the Basketball Operations Department and the director have placed in me." Zhang Yu's expression was utterly sincere.

"At least make it to the Sweet Sixteen."

The players had heard Stevens and turned to look at Zhang Yu.

"I want to play in March Madness, too!"

"Ronan, you're actually late? I've never seen you show up late before!" Mike Green, the Bulldogs' starting small forward, teased him.

If they were assistant coaches at powerhouse programs like Duke or North Carolina, a few years of experience could earn them a head coaching offer from another university.

"Why should we have to watch everyone else play in March Madness and enjoy the attention of the whole country, while we slink away after the regular season? We don't train any less than they do!"

Zhang Yu answered without hesitation:

A round of applause broke out. Zhang Yu turned around. A middle-aged Black man, nearly two meters tall, stood beside Stevens, watching him.

"Mr. Shulsbury, I was only saying what I truly feel." Zhang Yu went over and shook the man's hand.

He was a bald Black man who often wore a warm smile. He was responsible for recruiting players to the team.

Another great asset, of course, was his solid, extensive knowledge of basketball tactics.

The Butler University head coach's office wasn't far from Hinkle Fieldhouse. It took Zhang Yu only five minutes to reach the arena.

The players' spirits sank a little.

"Ronan, you're actually late? I've never seen you show up late before!" Mike Green, the Bulldogs' starting small forward, teased him.

The players had heard Stevens and turned to look at Zhang Yu.

"I'll always remember the trust the Basketball Operations Department and the director have placed in me." Zhang Yu's expression was utterly sincere.

"At least make it to the Sweet Sixteen."

The players had heard Stevens and turned to look at Zhang Yu.

"Why should we have to watch everyone else play in March Madness and enjoy the attention of the whole country, while we slink away after the regular season? We don't train any less than they do!"

Zhang Yu's mind went straight to the answer.

Being able to appoint a twenty-three-year-old Chinese man as head coach of an NCAA Division I team was no small thing. No matter how much influence Rickert had, the Basketball Operations Department and Micah Shulsbury had undoubtedly played key roles.

A round of applause broke out. Zhang Yu turned around. A middle-aged Black man, nearly two meters tall, stood beside Stevens, watching him.

"Mike, you actually called the coach by his first name? Coach, put him on the bench!" That was Julian Becko, the backup small forward. His greatest wish was to become a starter.

On game days, many local fans came to Hinkle Fieldhouse and cheered on the Bulldogs alongside Butler's students.

The Butler University head coach's office wasn't far from Hinkle Fieldhouse. It took Zhang Yu only five minutes to reach the arena.

"I want to play in March Madness, too!"

"Ronan, we've all been waiting for you." Stevens smiled.

The Butler University head coach's office wasn't far from Hinkle Fieldhouse. It took Zhang Yu only five minutes to reach the arena.

Zhang Yu thought for a moment, then stepped into the middle of the group. The others automatically formed a circle around him.

He didn't finish the sentence, but Zhang Yu understood what he meant.

The other assistant coaches came over to greet Zhang Yu, too.

If they were assistant coaches at powerhouse programs like Duke or North Carolina, a few years of experience could earn them a head coaching offer from another university.

"Micah, they'll find out soon enough." Zhang Yu smiled.

The other assistant coaches came over to greet Zhang Yu, too.

A round of applause broke out. Zhang Yu turned around. A middle-aged Black man, nearly two meters tall, stood beside Stevens, watching him.

Micah Shulsbury's words weren't empty threats. His predecessor's memories were full of experiences of being discriminated against after coming to the USA.

"Do you really think you can lead the team to the tournament?" Micah Shulsbury stared hard at Zhang Yu.

The players had heard Stevens and turned to look at Zhang Yu.

"Come on, come on! Don't hesitate—make your decisions quickly..." Stevens clapped and shouted, eyes fixed on a group working on a combination dribbling and passing drill. He spotted Zhang Yu and greeted him. "Ronan, you're finally here."

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

Stevens watched Zhang Yu in surprise. He was closer to Zhang Yu than anyone else. They often watched games together and discussed tactics, and he knew Zhang Yu better than anyone.

"Fortunately, the school was no longer satisfied with the team's current state. After Coach Rickert was injured, they didn't choose an excellent coach with 'experience.'" Zhang Yu's voice gradually rose. "Instead, they gave me the head coach position because they wanted me to bring about change."

This was one of the two valuable things his predecessor had left him: good relationships within the team.

Micah Shulsbury praised Zhang Yu before changing the subject:

"Ronan, you're actually late? I've never seen you show up late before!" Mike Green, the Bulldogs' starting small forward, teased him.

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

Stevens watched Zhang Yu in surprise. He was closer to Zhang Yu than anyone else. They often watched games together and discussed tactics, and he knew Zhang Yu better than anyone.

The Butler University head coach's office wasn't far from Hinkle Fieldhouse. It took Zhang Yu only five minutes to reach the arena.

"I want to play in March Madness, too!"

The players had heard Stevens and turned to look at Zhang Yu.

"I'll always remember the trust the Basketball Operations Department and the director have placed in me." Zhang Yu's expression was utterly sincere.

"At least make it to the Sweet Sixteen."

The players had heard Stevens and turned to look at Zhang Yu.

"Ronan, you're actually late? I've never seen you show up late before!" Mike Green, the Bulldogs' starting small forward, teased him.

A round of applause broke out. Zhang Yu turned around. A middle-aged Black man, nearly two meters tall, stood beside Stevens, watching him.

Micah Shulsbury's gaze shifted to the Bulldogs' players. He said quietly:

"Ronan, I want to hear what you have to say." Stevens suddenly suggested.

"I'll always remember the trust the Basketball Operations Department and the director have placed in me." Zhang Yu's expression was utterly sincere.

The man was a bald Black man who often wore a warm smile. He was responsible for recruiting players to the team.

Another great asset, of course, was his solid, extensive knowledge of basketball tactics.

The Butler University head coach's office wasn't far from Hinkle Fieldhouse. It took Zhang Yu only five minutes to reach the arena.

"Although the team's history is long, the Bulldogs' record has been pretty poor. Still, there's no question about their professionalism."

Micah Shulsbury sighed.

But fortunately, the school was no longer satisfied with the team's current state. After Coach Rickert was injured, they didn't choose an excellent coach with "experience." Zhang Yu's voice gradually rose. "Instead, they gave me the head coach position because they wanted me to bring about change."

The man was a bald Black man who often wore a warm smile. He was responsible for recruiting players to the team.

This was one of the two valuable things his predecessor had left him: good relationships within the team.

"Ronan, you're actually late? I've never seen you show up late before!" Mike Green, the Bulldogs' starting small forward, teased him.

On game days, many local fans came to Hinkle Fieldhouse and cheered on the Bulldogs alongside Butler's students.

"Of course. It's my job."

"It's fine. I feel better than I ever have." Zhang Yu looked around and saw concern and worry in everyone's eyes.

"Why should we have to watch everyone else play in March Madness and enjoy the attention of the whole country, while we slink away after the regular season? We don't train any less than they do!"

"Ronan, you're actually late? I've never seen you show up late before!" Mike Green, the Bulldogs' starting small forward, teased him.

The players' spirits sank a little.

"Of course. It's my job."

"It's fine. I feel better than I ever have." Zhang Yu looked around and saw concern and worry in everyone's eyes.

"Why should we have to watch everyone else play in March Madness and enjoy the attention of the whole country, while we slink away after the regular season? We don't train any less than they do!"

"Clap, clap, clap."

When Zhang Yu entered the arena, practice was already underway. The players were working on different drills under the coaching staff's direction.

Micah Shulsbury sighed.

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

This was one of the two valuable things his predecessor had left him: good relationships within the team.

"Ronan, I want to hear what you have to say." Stevens suddenly suggested.

As a long-established NCAA Division I team, the Bulldogs had a lackluster record, but there was no question about their professionalism.

Micah Shulsbury sighed.

Stevens watched Zhang Yu in surprise. He was closer to Zhang Yu than anyone else. They often watched games together and discussed tactics, and he knew Zhang Yu better than anyone.

Another great asset, of course, was his solid, extensive knowledge of basketball tactics.

"Very well. Thank you for believing in me," Zhang Yu said with a smile. "Looks like I have a good chance of getting my three hundred thousand. Thank God—I finally have some money. Anyone want to go on vacation in Hawaii?"

On game days, many local fans came to Hinkle Fieldhouse and cheered on the Bulldogs alongside Butler's students.

"Ronan, I want to hear what you have to say." Stevens suddenly suggested.

Zhang Yu thought for a moment, then stepped into the middle of the group. The others automatically formed a circle around him.

"Ronan, is it true you weren't feeling well? Brad said you were a little under the weather. Are you feeling better?" Matthew Graves came over.

"It's fine. I feel better than I ever have." Zhang Yu looked around and saw concern and worry in everyone's eyes.

If they were assistant coaches at powerhouse programs like Duke or North Carolina, a few years of experience could earn them a head coaching offer from another university.

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

Being able to appoint a twenty-three-year-old Chinese man as head coach of an NCAA Division I team was no small thing. No matter how much influence Rickert had, the Basketball Operations Department and Micah Shulsbury had undoubtedly played key roles.

"It's fine. I feel better than I ever have." Zhang Yu looked around and saw concern and worry in everyone's eyes.

"Are you satisfied with playing in the regular season every year and watching Indiana State shine in March Madness?" Zhang Yu called out.

"I joined the team only recently—even more recently than third-year students like Mike and Julian," Zhang Yu said, looking at Julian Becko and Mike Green. "And I've been here much less time than Stevens and Matthew. I know some players might question whether I can coach the team. That's perfectly normal. How could this young man from the East possibly know basketball? Maybe he can't even dribble."

Micah Shulsbury's words weren't empty threats. His predecessor's memories were full of experiences of being discriminated against after coming to the USA.

"Clap, clap, clap."

The players were fired up, airing their grievances. As players on a weak team, they'd had more than their share of bad experiences.

"Mr. Shulsbury, I was only saying what I truly feel." Zhang Yu went over and shook the man's hand.

The other assistant coaches came over to greet Zhang Yu, too.

"Very well. Thank you for believing in me," Zhang Yu said with a smile. "Looks like I have a good chance of getting my three hundred thousand. Thank God—I finally have some money. Anyone want to go on vacation in Hawaii?"

Micah sighed.

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

Stevens watched Zhang Yu in surprise. He was closer to Zhang Yu than anyone else. They often watched games together and discussed tactics, and he knew Zhang Yu better than anyone.

The Butler University head coach's office wasn't far from Hinkle Fieldhouse. It took Zhang Yu only five minutes to reach the arena.

"Clap, clap, clap."

The Bulldogs' record had indeed been poor, and they were bitter rivals with Indiana State, a powerful team in the Horizon League. Every time they met, the opponents mocked them.

Stevens watched Zhang Yu in surprise. He was closer to Zhang Yu than anyone else. They often watched games together and discussed tactics, and he knew Zhang Yu better than anyone.

"Clap, clap, clap."

The players were fired up, airing their grievances. As players on a weak team, they'd had more than their share of bad experiences.

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

"Being able to appoint a twenty-three-year-old Chinese man as head coach of an NCAA Division I team was no small thing. No matter how much influence Rickert had, the Basketball Operations Department and Micah Shulsbury had undoubtedly played key roles."

"It's fine. I feel better than I ever have." Zhang Yu looked around and saw concern and worry in everyone's eyes.

"Are you satisfied with playing in the regular season every year and watching Indiana State shine in March Madness?" Zhang Yu called out.

"I joined the team only recently—even more recently than third-year students like Mike and Julian," Zhang Yu said, looking at Julian Becko and Mike Green. "And I've been here much less time than Stevens and Matthew. I know some players might question whether I can coach the team. That's perfectly normal. How could this young man from the East possibly know basketball? Maybe he can't even dribble."

Zhang Yu thought for a moment, then stepped into the middle of the group. The others automatically formed a circle around him.

"Very well. Thank you for believing in me," Zhang Yu said with a smile. "Looks like I have a good chance of getting my three hundred thousand. Thank God—I finally have some money. Anyone want to go on vacation in Hawaii?"

The Bulldogs' record had indeed been poor, and they were bitter rivals with Indiana State, a powerful team in the Horizon League. Every time they met, the opponents mocked them.

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

Being able to appoint a twenty-three-year-old Chinese man as head coach of an NCAA Division I team was no small thing. No matter how much influence Rickert had, the Basketball Operations Department and Micah Shulsbury had undoubtedly played key roles.

"It's fine. I feel better than I ever have." Zhang Yu looked around and saw concern and worry in everyone's eyes.

"Are you satisfied with playing in the regular season every year and watching Indiana State shine in March Madness?" Zhang Yu called out.

"I joined the team only recently—even more recently than third-year students like Mike and Julian," Zhang Yu said, looking at Julian Becko and Mike Green. "And I've been here much less time than Stevens and Matthew. I know some players might question whether I can coach the team. That's perfectly normal. How could this young man from the East possibly know basketball? Maybe he can't even dribble."

Micah Shulsbury's words weren't empty threats. His predecessor's memories were full of experiences of being discriminated against after coming to the USA.

"Clap, clap, clap."

The players were fired up, airing their grievances. As players on a weak team, they'd had more than their share of bad experiences.

Zhang Yu raised a hand to quiet them. The players stopped talking, and he continued:

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

"Very well. Thank you for believing in me," Zhang Yu said with a smile. "Looks like I have a good chance of getting my three hundred thousand. Thank God—I finally have some money. Anyone want to go on vacation in Hawaii?"

Stevens watched Zhang Yu in surprise. He was closer to Zhang Yu than anyone else. They often watched games together and discussed tactics, and he knew Zhang Yu better than anyone.

If they were assistant coaches at powerhouse programs like Duke or North Carolina, a few years of experience could earn them a head coaching offer from another university.

"It's fine. I feel better than I ever have." Zhang Yu looked around and saw concern and worry in everyone's eyes.

The players' spirits sank a little.

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

"Very well. Thank you for believing in me," Zhang Yu said with a smile. "Looks like I have a good chance of getting my three hundred thousand. Thank God—I finally have some money. Anyone want to go on vacation in Hawaii?"

The man was a bald Black man who often wore a warm smile. He was responsible for recruiting players to the team.

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

Stevens watched Zhang Yu in surprise. He was closer to Zhang Yu than anyone else. They often watched games together and discussed tactics, and he knew Zhang Yu better than anyone.

The Butler University head coach's office wasn't far from Hinkle Fieldhouse. It took Zhang Yu only five minutes to reach the arena.

"Clap, clap, clap."

The Bulldogs' record had indeed been poor, and they were bitter rivals with Indiana State, a powerful team in the Horizon League. Every time they met, the opponents mocked them.

Stevens watched Zhang Yu in surprise. He was closer to Zhang Yu than anyone else. They often watched games together and discussed tactics, and he knew Zhang Yu better than anyone.

The Butler University head coach's office wasn't far from Hinkle Fieldhouse. It took Zhang Yu only five minutes to reach the arena.

Zhang Yu's words prompted a third burst of laughter.

If they were assistant coaches at powerhouse programs like Duke or North Carolina, a few years of experience could earn them a head coaching offer from another university.

The players' spirits sank a little.

Zhang Yu thought for a moment, then stepped into the middle of the group. The others automatically formed a circle around him.

The players' spirits sank a little.

"Very well. Thank you for believing in me," Zhang Yu said with a smile. "Looks like I have a good chance of getting my three hundred thousand. Thank God—I finally have some money. Anyone want to go on vacation in Hawaii?"

Zhang Yu's words prompted a third burst of laughter.

The man was a bald Black man who often wore a warm smile. He was responsible for recruiting players to the team.

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

Stevens watched Zhang Yu in surprise. He was closer to Zhang Yu than anyone else. They often watched games together and discussed tactics, and he knew Zhang Yu better than anyone.

The Butler University head coach's office wasn't far from Hinkle Fieldhouse. It took Zhang Yu only five minutes to reach the arena.

"Clap, clap, clap."

The Bulldogs' record had indeed been poor, and they were bitter rivals with Indiana State, a powerful team in the Horizon League. Every time they met, the opponents mocked them.

Stevens watched Zhang Yu in surprise. He was closer to Zhang Yu than anyone else. They often watched games together and discussed tactics, and he knew Zhang Yu better than anyone.

The players' spirits sank a little.

"Very well. Thank you for believing in me," Zhang Yu said with a smile. "Looks like I have a good chance of getting my three hundred thousand. Thank God—I finally have some money. Anyone want to go on vacation in Hawaii?"

"Ronan, is it true you weren't feeling well? Brad said you were a little under the weather. Are you feeling better?" Matthew Graves came over.

"It's fine. I feel better than I ever have." Zhang Yu looked around and saw concern and worry in everyone's eyes.

"Why should we have to watch everyone else play in March Madness and enjoy the attention of the whole country, while we slink away after the regular season? We don't train any less than they do!"

"Clap, clap, clap."

When Zhang Yu entered the arena, practice was already underway. The players were working on different drills under the coaching staff's direction.

Micah Shulsbury sighed.

Zhang Yu thought for a moment, then stepped into the middle of the group. The others automatically formed a circle around him.

"Ronan, I want to hear what you have to say." Stevens suddenly suggested.

As a long-established NCAA Division I team, the Bulldogs had a lackluster record, but there was no question about their professionalism.

Micah Shulsbury sighed.

Stevens watched Zhang Yu in surprise. He was closer to Zhang Yu than anyone else. They often watched games together and discussed tactics, and he knew Zhang Yu better than anyone.

Another great asset, of course, was his solid, extensive knowledge of basketball tactics.

"Very well. Thank you for believing in me," Zhang Yu said with a smile. "Looks like I have a good chance of getting my three hundred thousand. Thank God—I finally have some money. Anyone want to go on vacation in Hawaii?"

On game days, many local fans came to Hinkle Fieldhouse and cheered on the Bulldogs alongside Butler's students.

"Ronan, I want to hear what you have to say." Stevens suddenly suggested.

Zhang Yu thought for a moment, then stepped into the middle of the group. The others automatically formed a circle around him.

"Ronan, is it true you weren't feeling well? Brad said you were a little under the weather. Are you feeling better?" Matthew Graves came over.

"It's fine. I feel better than I ever have." Zhang Yu looked around and saw concern and worry in everyone's eyes.

If they were assistant coaches at powerhouse programs like Duke or North Carolina, a few years of experience could earn them a head coaching offer from another university.

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

Being able to appoint a twenty-three-year-old Chinese man as head coach of an NCAA Division I team was no small thing. No matter how much influence Rickert had, the Basketball Operations Department and Micah Shulsbury had undoubtedly played key roles.

"It's fine. I feel better than I ever have." Zhang Yu looked around and saw concern and worry in everyone's eyes.

"Are you satisfied with playing in the regular season every year and watching Indiana State shine in March Madness?" Zhang Yu called out.

"I joined the team only recently—even more recently than third-year students like Mike and Julian," Zhang Yu said, looking at Julian Becko and Mike Green. "And I've been here much less time than Stevens and Matthew. I know some players might question whether I can coach the team. That's perfectly normal. How could this young man from the East possibly know basketball? Maybe he can't even dribble."

The players' spirits sank a little.

"Ronan, is it true you weren't feeling well? Brad said you were a little under the weather. Are you feeling better?" Matthew Graves came over.

"Why should we have to watch everyone else play in March Madness and enjoy the attention of the whole country, while we slink away after the regular season? We don't train any less than they do!"

The players were fired up, airing their grievances. As players on a weak team, they'd had more than their share of bad experiences.

"Ronan, your speech was excellent."

The Butler University head coach's office wasn't far from Hinkle Fieldhouse. It took Zhang Yu only five minutes to reach the arena.

"Mike, you actually called the coach by his first name? Coach, put him on the bench!" That was Julian Becko, the backup small forward. His greatest wish was to become a starter.

"Clap, clap, clap."

The Bulldogs' record had indeed been poor, and they were bitter rivals with Indiana State, a powerful team in the Horizon League. Every time they met, the opponents mocked them.

"Ronan, I want to hear what you have to say." Stevens suddenly suggested.

"Clap, clap, clap."

The players were fired up, airing their grievances. As players on a weak team, they'd had more than their share of bad experiences.

The man was a bald Black man who often wore a warm smile. He was responsible for recruiting players to the team.

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

"Ronan, your speech was excellent."

"Very well. Thank you for believing in me," Zhang Yu said with a smile. "Looks like I have a good chance of getting my three hundred thousand. Thank God—I finally have some money. Anyone want to go on vacation in Hawaii?"

"Ronan, you're actually late? I've never seen you show up late before!" Mike Green, the Bulldogs' starting small forward, teased him.

The players' spirits sank a little.

"Zhang Yu, your speech was excellent."

The man was a bald Black man who often wore a warm smile. He was responsible for recruiting players to the team.

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

Stevens watched Zhang Yu in surprise. He was closer to Zhang Yu than anyone else. They often watched games together and discussed tactics, and he knew Zhang Yu better than anyone.

"Very well. Thank you for believing in me," Zhang Yu said with a smile. "Looks like I have a good chance of getting my three hundred thousand. Thank God—I finally have some money. Anyone want to go on vacation in Hawaii?"

"Clap, clap, clap."

The Bulldogs' record had indeed been poor, and they were bitter rivals with Indiana State, a powerful team in the Horizon League. Every time they met, the opponents mocked them.

Stevens watched Zhang Yu in surprise. He was closer to Zhang Yu than anyone else. They often watched games together and discussed tactics, and he knew Zhang Yu better than anyone.

"Very well. Thank you for believing in me," Zhang Yu said with a smile. "Looks like I have a good chance of getting my three hundred thousand. Thank God—I finally have some money. Anyone want to go on vacation in Hawaii?"

"Clap, clap, clap."

The Butler University head coach's office wasn't far from Hinkle Fieldhouse. It took Zhang Yu only five minutes to reach the arena.

"Ronan, your speech was excellent."

"Mike, you actually called the coach by his first name? Coach, put him on the bench!" That was Julian Becko, the backup small forward. His greatest wish was to become a starter.

"Clap, clap, clap."

"Ronan, you're actually late? I've never seen you show up late before!" Mike Green, the Bulldogs' starting small forward, teased him.

Micah Shulsbury's words weren't empty threats. His predecessor's memories were full of experiences of being discriminated against after coming to the USA.

"Clap, clap, clap."

"Very well. Thank you for believing in me," Zhang Yu said with a smile. "Looks like I have a good chance of getting my three hundred thousand. Thank God—I finally have some money. Anyone want to go on vacation in Hawaii?"

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

"Stevens, your speech was excellent."

"Very well. Thank you for believing in me," Zhang Yu said with a smile. "Looks like I have a good chance of getting my three hundred thousand. Thank God—I finally have some money. Anyone want to go on vacation in Hawaii?"

The players' spirits sank a little.

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

Stevens watched Zhang Yu in surprise. He was closer to Zhang Yu than anyone else. They often watched games together and discussed tactics, and he knew Zhang Yu better than anyone.

"Very well. Thank you for believing in me," Zhang Yu said with a smile. "Looks like I have a good chance of getting my three hundred thousand. Thank God—I finally have some money. Anyone want to go on vacation in Hawaii?"

The Butler University head coach's office wasn't far from Hinkle Fieldhouse. It took Zhang Yu only five minutes to reach the arena.

The players' spirits sank a little.

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

Stevens watched Zhang Yu in surprise. He was closer to Zhang Yu than anyone else. They often watched games together and discussed tactics, and he knew Zhang Yu better than anyone.

"Very well. Thank you for believing in me," Zhang Yu said with a smile. "Looks like I have a good chance of getting my three hundred thousand. Thank God—I finally have some money. Anyone want to go on vacation in Hawaii?"

"Clap, clap, clap."

"Are you satisfied with playing in the regular season every year and watching Indiana State shine in March Madness?" Zhang Yu called out.

"I joined the team only recently—even more recently than third-year students like Mike and Julian," Zhang Yu said, looking at Julian Becko and Mike Green. "And I've been here much less time than Stevens and Matthew. I know some players might question whether I can coach the team. That's perfectly normal. How could this young man from the East possibly know basketball? Maybe he can't even dribble."

Micah Shulsbury's words weren't empty threats. His predecessor's memories were full of experiences of being discriminated against after coming to the USA.

"Clap, clap, clap."

The players were fired up, airing their grievances. As players on a weak team, they'd had more than their share of bad experiences.

"Mr. Shulsbury, I was only saying what I truly feel." Zhang Yu went over and shook the man's hand.

The players all watched Zhang Yu expectantly.

Although the crowd could far outnumber Butler University's student body of just over four thousand, Indiana was the most basketball-crazed state in the country, and fans were never in short supply.

"I want to play in March Madness, too!"

"Clap, clap, clap."

The players were fired up, airing their grievances. As players on a weak team, they'd had more than their share of bad experiences.

"Mr. Shulsbury, I was only saying what I truly feel." Zhang Yu went over and shook the man's hand.

The players all watched Zhang Yu expectantly.

Zhang Yu was speechless for a moment. Neither man spoke.

Although the crowd could far outnumber Butler University's student body of just over four thousand, Indiana was the most basketball-crazed state in the country, and fans were never in short supply.

"Clap, clap, clap."

The players were fired up, airing their grievances. As players on a weak team, they'd had more than their share of bad experiences.

A round of applause broke out. Zhang Yu turned around. A middle-aged Black man, nearly two meters tall, stood beside Stevens, watching him.

"Do you really think you can lead the team to the tournament?" Micah Shulsbury stared hard at Zhang Yu.

"Very well. Thank you for believing in me," Zhang Yu said with a smile. "Looks like I have a good chance of getting my three hundred thousand. Thank God—I finally have some money. Anyone want to go on vacation in Hawaii?"

"Three, two, one—Bulldogs, let's go!"

The Bulldogs' record had indeed been poor, and they were bitter rivals with Indiana State, a powerful team in the Horizon League. Every time they met, the opponents mocked them.

Stevens watched Zhang Yu in surprise. He was closer to Zhang Yu than anyone else. They often watched games together and discussed tactics, and he knew Zhang Yu better than anyone.

"Ronan, I want to hear what you have to say." Stevens suddenly suggested.

The players all watched Zhang Yu expectantly.

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

"Being able to appoint a twenty-three-year-old Chinese man as head coach of an NCAA Division I team was no small thing. No matter how much influence Rickert had, the Basketball Operations Department and Micah Shulsbury had undoubtedly played key roles."

"It's fine. I feel better than I ever have." Zhang Yu looked around and saw concern and worry in everyone's eyes.

"Are you satisfied with playing in the regular season every year and watching Indiana State shine in March Madness?" Zhang Yu called out.

"I joined the team only recently—even more recently than third-year students like Mike and Julian," Zhang Yu said, looking at Julian Becko and Mike Green. "And I've been here much less time than Stevens and Matthew. I know some players might question whether I can coach the team. That's perfectly normal. How could this young man from the East possibly know basketball? Maybe he can't even dribble."

Micah Shulsbury's words weren't empty threats. His predecessor's memories were full of experiences of being discriminated against after coming to the USA.

The players' spirits sank a little.

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

"Very well. Thank you for believing in me," Zhang Yu said with a smile. "Looks like I have a good chance of getting my three hundred thousand. Thank God—I finally have some money. Anyone want to go on vacation in Hawaii?"

The players' spirits sank a little.

The man was a bald Black man who often wore a warm smile. He was responsible for recruiting players to the team.

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

Stevens watched Zhang Yu in surprise. He was closer to Zhang Yu than anyone else. They often watched games together and discussed tactics, and he knew Zhang Yu better than anyone.

The Butler University head coach's office wasn't far from Hinkle Fieldhouse. It took Zhang Yu only five minutes to reach the arena.

"Three, two, one—Bulldogs, let's go!"

The Bulldogs' record had indeed been poor, and they were bitter rivals with Indiana State, a powerful team in the Horizon League. Every time they met, the opponents mocked them.

Stevens watched Zhang Yu in surprise. He was closer to Zhang Yu than anyone else. They often watched games together and discussed tactics, and he knew Zhang Yu better than anyone.

"Clap, clap, clap."

"Being able to appoint a twenty-three-year-old Chinese man as head coach of an NCAA Division I team was no small thing. No matter how much influence Rickert had, the Basketball Operations Department and Micah Shulsbury had undoubtedly played key roles."

"It's fine. I feel better than I ever have." Zhang Yu looked around and saw concern and worry in everyone's eyes.

"Are you satisfied with playing in the regular season every year and watching Indiana State shine in March Madness?" Zhang Yu called out.

"I joined the team only recently—even more recently than third-year students like Mike and Julian," Zhang Yu said, looking at Julian Becko and Mike Green. "And I've been here much less time than Stevens and Matthew. I know some players might question whether I can coach the team. That's perfectly normal. How could this young man from the East possibly know basketball? Maybe he can't even dribble."

"Ronan, your speech was excellent."

The players were fired up, airing their grievances. As players on a weak team, they'd had more than their share of bad experiences.

"Why should we have to watch everyone else play in March Madness and enjoy the attention of the whole country, while we slink away after the regular season? We don't train any less than they do!"

"Very well. Thank you for believing in me," Zhang Yu said with a smile. "Looks like I have a good chance of getting my three hundred thousand. Thank God—I finally have some money. Anyone want to go on vacation in Hawaii?"

"Clap, clap, clap."

The man was a bald Black man who often wore a warm smile. He was responsible for recruiting players to the team.

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

Stevens watched Zhang Yu in surprise. He was closer to Zhang Yu than anyone else. They often watched games together and discussed tactics, and he knew Zhang Yu better than anyone.

The Butler University head coach's office wasn't far from Hinkle Fieldhouse. It took Zhang Yu only five minutes to reach the arena.

"Three, two, one—Bulldogs, let's go!"

The Bulldogs' record had indeed been poor, and they were bitter rivals with Indiana State, a powerful team in the Horizon League. Every time they met, the opponents mocked them.

Stevens watched Zhang Yu in surprise. He was closer to Zhang Yu than anyone else. They often watched games together and discussed tactics, and he knew Zhang Yu better than anyone.

"Mr. Shulsbury, I was only saying what I truly feel." Zhang Yu went over and shook the man's hand.

"Do you really think you can lead the team to the tournament?" Micah Shulsbury stared hard at Zhang Yu.

"Ronan, is it true you weren't feeling well? Brad said you were a little under the weather. Are you feeling better?" Matthew Graves came over.

"It's fine. I feel better than I ever have." Zhang Yu looked around and saw concern and worry in everyone's eyes.

"Why should we have to watch everyone else play in March Madness and enjoy the attention of the whole country, while we slink away after the regular season? We don't train any less than they do!"

The players were fired up, airing their grievances. As players on a weak team, they'd had more than their share of bad experiences.

"Ronan, your speech was excellent."

The Butler University head coach's office wasn't far from Hinkle Fieldhouse. It took Zhang Yu only five minutes to reach the arena.

"Three, two, one—Bulldogs, let's go!"

"Very well. Work hard at practice. I'll draw up the best system for you and pick the best starters. I'll lead you into March Madness!" Zhang Yu swept his hand through the air, his voice firm.

The Butler University head coach's office wasn't far from Hinkle Fieldhouse. It took Zhang Yu only five minutes to reach the arena.

Zhang Yu's words prompted a third burst of laughter.

If they were assistant coaches at powerhouse programs like Duke or North Carolina, a few years of experience could earn them a head coaching offer from another university.

"Very well. Work hard at practice. I'll draw up the best system for you and pick the best starters. I'll lead you into March Madness!" Zhang Yu swept his hand through the air, his voice firm.

The players' spirits sank a little.

"Are you satisfied with playing in the regular season every year and watching Indiana State shine in March Madness?" Zhang Yu called out.

Micah sighed.

The Butler University head coach's office wasn't far from Hinkle Fieldhouse. It took Zhang Yu only five minutes to reach the arena.

"Ronan, your speech was excellent."

The Butler University head coach's office wasn't far from Hinkle Fieldhouse. It took Zhang Yu only five minutes to reach the arena.

"Mike, you actually called the coach by his first name? Coach, put him on the bench!" That was Julian Becko, the backup small forward. His greatest wish was to become a starter.

"Clap, clap, clap."

The Bulldogs' record had indeed been poor, and they were bitter rivals with Indiana State, a powerful team in the Horizon League. Every time they met, the opponents mocked them.

"Ronan, I want to hear what you have to say." Stevens suddenly suggested.

The other assistant coaches came over to greet Zhang Yu, too.

"Ronan, you're actually late? I've never seen you show up late before!" Mike Green, the Bulldogs' starting small forward, teased him.

"Very well. Work hard at practice. I'll draw up the best system for you and pick the best starters. I'll lead you into March Madness!" Zhang Yu swept his hand through the air, his voice firm.

"Three, two, one—Bulldogs, let's go!"

The Bulldogs' record had indeed been poor, and they were bitter rivals with Indiana State, a powerful team in the Horizon League. Every time they met, the opponents mocked them.

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

Being able to appoint a twenty-three-year-old Chinese man as head coach of an NCAA Division I team was no small thing. No matter how much influence Rickert had, the Basketball Operations Department and Micah Shulsbury had undoubtedly played key roles.

"It's fine. I feel better than I ever have." Zhang Yu looked around and saw concern and worry in everyone's eyes.

"Are you satisfied with playing in the regular season every year and watching Indiana State shine in March Madness?" Zhang Yu called out.

"I joined the team only recently—even more recently than third-year students like Mike and Julian," Zhang Yu said, looking at Julian Becko and Mike Green. "And I've been here much less time than Stevens and Matthew. I know some players might question whether I can coach the team. That's perfectly normal. How could this young man from the East possibly know basketball? Maybe he can't even dribble."

Micah Shulsbury's words weren't empty threats. His predecessor's memories were full of experiences of being discriminated against after coming to the USA.

"Clap, clap, clap."

The players were fired up, airing their grievances. As players on a weak team, they'd had more than their share of bad experiences.

"Very well. Work hard at practice. I'll draw up the best system for you and pick the best starters. I'll lead you into March Madness!" Zhang Yu swept his hand through the air, his voice firm.

"Three, two, one—Bulldogs, let's go!"

The players' spirits sank a little.

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

The players all watched Zhang Yu expectantly.

"Being able to appoint a twenty-three-year-old Chinese man as head coach of an NCAA Division I team was no small thing. No matter how much influence Rickert had, the Basketball Operations Department and Micah Shulsbury had undoubtedly played key roles."

"It's fine. I feel better than I ever have." Zhang Yu looked around and saw concern and worry in everyone's eyes.

"Are you satisfied with playing in the regular season every year and watching Indiana State shine in March Madness?" Zhang Yu called out.

"I joined the team only recently—even more recently than third-year students like Mike and Julian," Zhang Yu said, looking at Julian Becko and Mike Green. "And I've been here much less time than Stevens and Matthew. I know some players might question whether I can coach the team. That's perfectly normal. How could this young man from the East possibly know basketball? Maybe he can't even dribble."

Micah Shulsbury's words weren't empty threats. His predecessor's memories were full of experiences of being discriminated against after coming to the USA.

"Ronan, I want to hear what you have to say." Stevens suddenly suggested.

"Very well. Work hard at practice. I'll draw up the best system for you and pick the best starters. I'll lead you into March Madness!" Zhang Yu swept his hand through the air, his voice firm.

The players all watched Zhang Yu expectantly.

"Ronan, is it true you weren't feeling well? Brad said you were a little under the weather. Are you feeling better?" Matthew Graves came over.

The players' spirits sank a little.

Zhang Yu's mind filled with the names of the people on his assistant coaching staff: Matthew Graves, Brandon Miller, Terry Johnson, and Brad Stevens.

Stevens watched Zhang Yu in surprise. He was closer to Zhang Yu than anyone else. They often watched games together and discussed tactics, and he knew Zhang Yu better than anyone.

The Butler University head coach's office wasn't far from Hinkle Fieldhouse. It took Zhang Yu only five minutes to reach the arena.

"Three, two, one—Bulldogs, let's go!"

The Bulldogs' record had indeed been poor, and they were bitter rivals with Indiana State, a powerful team in the Horizon League. Every time they met, the opponents mocked them.

Stevens watched Zhang Yu in surprise. He was closer to Zhang Yu than anyone else. They often watched games together and discussed tactics, and he knew Zhang Yu better than anyone.