Episode 564: The players all broke off their stares. Led by Fukatsu Kazunari, they turned in an orderly fashion and headed toward their own bench.
Even as they moved, they retained Sannoh Industrial High School's distinctive rigor and discipline, showing not the slightest sign of panic.
Yet beneath their seemingly calm exteriors, deep within that unwavering fighting spirit, lingered a gravity they could neither shake off nor dispel.
It was the apprehension that surfaced only when facing Chi Tong, when facing this ultimate Kanagawa team—a burden born from knowing the road ahead was perilous, yet still having to stake everything on one final gamble.
The regret of that single point at the National Tournament, along with the insurmountable mountain before them, weighed on everyone's hearts. Every step they took was steady, yet resolute.
At the Kanagawa bench, Coach Takato Riki swept his gaze across every player before him and spoke in a composed, solemn tone. "This is our final game at this Autumn National Sports Festival. If we win, we're champions. There's no need to hold back any longer. Just give it everything you've got."
As he spoke, he turned to look at Chi Tong beside him, his eyes filled with trust and expectation.
"Chi Tong, I'm leaving the rest to you!"
As the team's core and captain, Chi Tong's control over the court needed no further explanation. With the initiative of the game entrusted to him, Takato Riki was completely at ease.
Chi Tong gave a slight nod without saying anything else. He then stepped before the players, calmly swept his gaze over them, and slowly spoke. "Next, I'll announce the starting lineup for this game."
His gaze moved slowly across the group, his voice clear and composed. "The starters will be me, Sento, and Senior A Mu."
"Senior