Stalemate

Tokyo, Yoyogi Gymnasium, Court One—the Winter Cup quarterfinal between Sanno and Ryonan.

As the game progressed, one unexpected development after another unfolded.

First, thanks to the excellent play of their shooters after the opening tip, Ryonan went toe-to-toe with Sanno in a fierce offensive battle for a full five minutes. Not only did they keep the score close, but they even managed to take the lead for a possession or two.

Just when everyone thought Ryonan might give Sanno serious trouble today, Ryonan's two shooters, Kazama Yuto and Aida Hikoichi, suddenly lost their touch from mid-range in perfect unison, repeatedly handing Sanno opportunities for defensive counterattacks.

Naturally, Sanno did not waste the chances their opponents practically handed to them. They rode the momentum into a huge run and pushed their lead into double digits.

Beep—!!

"Ryonan requests a timeout!!"

Seeing that his players looked a little dazed from being battered by their opponents, Coach Taoka hurriedly called a timeout to give them a chance to catch their breath.

After the players returned to the bench, Coach Taoka did not criticize them. Instead, he focused on calming them down.

After Coach Taoka's reassurance and encouragement, the Ryonan players finally rallied and regained their fighting spirit and confidence.

On the other side, in Sanno's bench area, Coach Domoto generously praised every player while also reminding them not to celebrate too early. The first half had not even reached its midpoint yet.

"After the timeout, Ryonan will definitely launch a fierce counterattack! If we can contain it like we did over the last two minutes, then Ryonan can forget about making a comeback in this game!"

Coach Domoto said sternly.

"But likewise, if we let them pull off that counterattack, then even if they cannot tie or take the lead, their morale will