Bateer's forceful, declaration-like introduction was like a boulder hurled into a still lake, instantly sending ripples through the training camp.
Especially around the post players, even the air seemed to grow a little stiller.
From that day on, the camp's three premier post players-Wang Zhizhi, the model of finesse, Hiroshi Morishige, the rising powerhouse, and the newly arrived "Grassland Beast," Bateer-
They were like three engines locked in competition, working especially hard in every training session, with sparks of silent rivalry filling the air.
Whether it was basic strength training, footwork, or battles under the basket on offense and defense, the contest among these three became the most eye-catching sight in the gym.
Wang Zhizhi demonstrated the elegance of technique with his silky turns and accurate shooting;
Hiroshi Morishige displayed the power of his gifts with one bull-like charge and roar after another;
And Bateer was like a silent volcano.
Every time he established position, called for the ball, or powered up under the basket, he brought a heart-stopping measure of utterly pure brute force, as though he could crush every obstacle.
Their massive physiques and fierce clashes naturally drew everyone's attention.
By comparison, Ryota Kudo, who was also performing brilliantly and possessed a well-rounded skill set, seemed temporarily overshadowed by these three giants of the paint.
Ryota Kudo, however, did not care in the slightest.
He welcomed the peace and quiet and devoted more of his attention to observing, especially observing the newcomer, Bateer.
After several days of careful observation, Ryota Kudo discovered that Bateer was far from a brute who had nothing but strength.
His fundamentals around the basket were quite solid. His hooks with either hand were hardly flashy, but his release was consistent, and he controlled his touch well.
His awareness when establishing position was first-rate,