Coach Anzai picked up the key points Ayako had hurriedly jotted down and the tactics board, then began a detailed analysis of their unexpected yet immensely powerful final opponent:
"Hakata Shodai Affiliated is an undisputed powerhouse from Kyushu, renowned nationwide for strict discipline, solid fundamentals, and near-perfect teamwork.
They don't have a superstar ace with unstoppable individual skills like Eiji Sawakita, nor an overwhelming force like Hiroshi Morishige, who can destroy the interior through physical ability alone."
"But," Coach Anzai stressed, "what makes them frightening is that not one of their five starters has an obvious weakness.
Every one of them is a top player at his position, and their teamwork is the best I've ever seen among high school teams, bar none."
He turned to the tactics board and began outlining Hakata Shodai's projected starting lineup and their characteristics:
1. Point guard (PG): #4 Yuki Nishinoguchi (180 cm) - an exceptionally composed, traditional point guard.
First-rate playmaking and orchestration, precise and creative passing, and excellent court vision.
Solid defensive footwork and rarely caught out of position. He has absolute control over Hakata Shodai's offensive tempo.
2. Shooting guard (SG): #5 Tetsuya Takao (184 cm) - a master of off-ball movement.
An elite perimeter shooter with exceptional catch-and-shoot ability and a frighteningly consistent shooting percentage.
He can also attack off the dribble and executes plays extremely well.
3. Small forward (SF): #6 Haruhiko Kitajima (188 cm) - an all-around wing.
A defensive specialist with excellent one-on-one defense and help awareness, a nightmare for the opposing team's perimeter centerpiece.
Versatile on offense, able to shoot and drive, with first-rate instincts for off-ball cuts. A reliable second or third scoring option.
4. Power forward (PF): #7 Minami Shoyo (192 cm) - a mobile interior player.
An excellent athlete who gets off the