The next opponent (part one)

From the qualifiers to the National Tournament, the changes Chi Tong had brought to Ryonan were plain for all to see.

Yet Mukai Minsheng still felt he had not fully understood this first-year captain. He wanted to learn more about Chi Tong from the perspective of Tiangang Maoyi, the coach who had recognized his talent.

"Ling Yu, Chi Tong!"

The moment Taoka Moichi heard that name, a flicker of satisfaction and pride appeared in his eyes.

He murmured it softly, memories of everything since he first met Chi Tong rising unbidden in his mind.

His smile grew more heartfelt, his voice brimming with pride. "He is the finest player I have ever seen in all my years of coaching. No one else comes close."

"I am incredibly proud to have had the chance to coach a player like him and bring him into Ryonan."

After a pause, Tiangang Maoyi lifted his head slightly, his gaze seeming to pass through the corridor walls toward a distant future. He continued, "If I had to describe Chi Tong in a single phrase, it would probably be 'a born leader.'"

"I have coached plenty of talented players, but Chi Tong is different from all of them. His talent goes far beyond what everyone can see right now."

"His skills are solid and well-rounded. His passing, defense, and offense are all beyond reproach. His intelligence far surpasses that of his peers; he always finds his opponents' weaknesses at crucial moments and devises the most effective tactics. He has a keen eye for every teammate's potential and can bring all their strengths together. I have never seen anyone else with these qualities."

Taoka Moichi's voice grew increasingly firm, his eyes filled with appreciation for Chi Tong.

"If anyone can reach the very top and lead his