The lights dimmed.
A heavy bass rumbled through the arena floor. The crowd's chatter faded as the spotlight beams crisscrossed the hardwood court.
A booming voice echoed through the arena speakers—deep, sharp, and electrifying.
"Welcome… to the NATIONAL MIDDLE SCHOOL TOURNAMENT— KNOCKOUT STAGE!"
Cheers erupted. The sound was overwhelming—thousands of voices colliding, clapping, chanting. Banners waved. Camera flashes popped like sparks.
"This is a single-elimination tournament. You lose once—you're out!"
"Win four games… and you're crowned NATIONAL CHAMPIONS!"
A drumbeat kicked in. The lights spiraled toward the court's left tunnel.
"Now introducing… from Mouth of Wilson, Virginia — the rising challengers — give it up for… VORPAL BASKET!"
Smoke poured from the tunnel gate.
Out walked Lucas Graves (#10), head held high, eyes glowing gold under the arena lights.
"Number 10 — Lucas Graves! Small Forward— 'The Phantom Copy or The Mimic Prodigy"
