Chapter 11 Unbelievably Awesome

Jerry continued to inquire, "Stephen, you declared for the draft after high school. However, the Phoenix Suns suspected you of having ties to the underworld, so they passed on signing you. What's your goal?"

"Of course. I aim to play in the NBA and become a star. Those people at Phoenix Suns are out of their minds. I can't just abandon my brothers from the hood just to play basketball, right?" Stephen didn't deny his connections to the underworld, preferring to be suspected rather than lie.

His personality might lead to setbacks, yet it was impossible to dislike him for his authenticity.

"You have loyalty which is critical, since the court demands treating your teammates like brothers," Jerry affirmed. "I agree with that the so-called flaws identified by the Phoenix Suns are exactly your strengths. As long as you impress me with your skills, I guarantee you'll play the preseason with the New York Knicks, and I'll do my best to secure a contract for you."

"Really?" As an eighteen-year-old young man, Stephen was very excited; his eyes lit up looking at Jerry. Nothing swayed a man's heart like tangible benefits.

"Absolutely. Do you have an agent? If not, don't forget to give me a commission once things are settled," Jerry quipped, playfully slapping Stephen on the back. "Nice physique; show what you've got."

Next, Jerry approached the shortest player on the team, who was just about as tall as he was.

"Chucky, I may not look as old as your cousin, but your cousin surely doesn't have the chance to stand here and speak like I do, right?" Jerry said with a smile.

His aura had already subdued the players. Chucky had no doubt Jerry was the wunderkind coach signed by the New York Knicks, the one who could decide his fate.

"Mr. Jerry, I'm sorry about what I have said earlier, but you indeed look really young." Chucky chuckled.

"Yes, and that's why I think you're very honest. What is your goal?" Jerry asked.

"To become an NBA player," Chucky replied cautiously, afraid of making mistakes.

"What's your strength?"

"I'm quick, and I’m good at penetrating and shooting. However, I'm often deemed too short and not adept at physical confrontations," Chucky sighed.

"Muggsy Bogues, who was shorter and lighter than you, served as a captain for the United States team. If you can excel as a team player, driving when necessary, and distributing the ball effectively after attracting the defense, or if a big man switches on you, you'll definitely secure your place in the NBA," Jerry said.

"Thank you." Chucky felt much reassured, perceiving that the coach seemed to have faith in him.

"How's your three-point shooting?"

"I'm pretty reliable," Chucky said with pride, puffing up his chest.

"Show that in the scrimmage later. We don't have much time; we just have two training sessions before tomorrow's game. If you can make your threes, I'll let you start lineup."

Jerry finally walked up to Mikki and pointed at him. "You, step out."

Mikki was a little sheepish.

"Surprised? I know you didn't say anything just now. That’s why I'm not asking about your goals. We're about to play a scrimmage, and I need a big man, so that's you. The four of you who stepped out, get in red and white vests, ready to start the scrimmage," Jerry announced loudly.

He then turned his head, saying, "Tom, you take seven, I'll take five. How about a friendly competition?"

Tom asked curiously, "You planned it from the start, didn't you? You didn't seem to care for the players I picked from the start. Can you tell me why?"

"It's simple. Through analyzing their profiles, I selected players with strong mental attributes who are fierce competitors. Except for Mikki, since his profile showed he could shoot. My strategy needs a big man who can create space, just like Patrick."

Naturally, Tom didn't trust him. He wondered, "You did see the scout reports, but what insights could you possibly provide? It all appeared to be mere speculation!"

"Even if they're all fiery, that doesn't guarantee a win," Tom retorted, not believing he could lose to someone younger. He had seven players, more to choose from.

"How about we go over our tactics now? Five minutes, and then we start, okay?"

"No problem."

The teams lined up on opposite sides, making it look like an official game.

Thomas followed Jerry, taking his place as a silent, handsome man on the sideline.

The more he watched, the more astonished he became. This person was not the introverted, self-doubting Jerry he knew, not good with words and always griping. The transformation was astounding!

The change reminded him of the film "Face/Off" that had just premiered at the end of June, stirring an impulse within Thomas to call the police. Yet, he couldn't deny it was a positive change. In the past, Jerry would have struggled to find a job and fit in anywhere.

With quick strokes of the tactical board, Jerry laid out the plan to the circled players. "The offensive tactic is simple. Chucky advances with the ball, passing it to Stephen to draw out. Stephen takes the ball down the middle, looking for the opportunity to distribute the ball to teammates outside the three-point line. If the opponent is weak, take them one-on-one."

"Wait, Mr. Jerry, am I not the point guard? Why is he handling the ball and orchestrating?" Chucky couldn't contain his doubts.

"Did you forget what you just said? Your strengths are speed, penetration, shooting.  You're not a natural at passing. Are you even a point guard?"

Chucky was speechless, realizing passing wasn't his strength.

A chuckle broke out, it was from Ben, whose laugh made an awkward sight, sending chills through everyone.

Jerry continued. "Stephen, don't rush your plays. Be selective with your shots. This is a test. If you play preseason for the Knicks later, Jeff will be even stricter. Wild shots could cost you your spot. Always think team first unless you're open or facing a much shorter player."

"Got it." Stephen knew Jerry what meant well; there were plenty of stars on the New York Knicks, and chances to score were scarce.

Jerry went on. "Bruce, stay put on the baseline to the right. On offense, you don't need to move around much. If you get the ball and you're open, shoot. If not, draw in the defense. Any questions?"

"None." Bruce was ready to hide his shortcomings, eagerly accepting the directive.

"Mikki give Chucky off-the-ball screens to help him shake off defenders. Afterwards, Chucky moves along the three-point line. If Stephen passes the ball and the big man switching on you is slow, take the shot and prove your three-point capability. If they switch quickly, pass to Mikki; it's a mismatch opportunity. Mikki has a mid-range shot or can go for a cut. Ben stays active at the low post, going for offensive rebounds to showcase your strength! Remember, after an offensive rebound, pass to an open teammate. Don't go for a second attack if someone is on you; I don't want to see you on the free-throw line, okay?"

"Okay!" Ben agreed awkwardly; his free-throw performance for the Washington Wizards last season was dreadful.

"That's the offensive play, and it’s so simple; we search for mismatch opportunities. I'll emphasize one last time: don't play recklessly!" Jerry believed this strategy was tailored for them; it allowed each to play to their strengths.

"Defensive tactics even simpler, man-to-man. Ben, you're at the center; resist the opposition, guard the paint, and control the defensive rebounds. Mikki, switch on guards quickly; don't let them breach easily. Check who has the strong penetration on their side, Bruce, give them extra attention. Chucky, you handle the breakthroughs but don't worry if they pull away and score. I won't blame you." With a gesture, Jerry rallied the players. "All right, let's get ready to go!"