Chapter 1778 Strategy to Close the Gap

Chapter 1778 Strategy to Close the Gap

The strategy I was going to propose was a simple one. It’s just using our strengths while exploiting our opponent’s weaker side. But before I do that, I have to tell them my observation and see if they also notice it. If not then I’ll point it out to them.

That’s why as soon as I got their attention, I borrowed the whiteboard and marker from Eguchi-sensei. Without wasting a second of the short duration of this timeout, the marker squeaked across the board as I circled a spot on it that represented the point guard of the opposing team. While doing so, I checked on their reactions.

Naturally, some raised an eyebrow as they were intrigued by what I meant by that. However, I was searching for someone who had a bigger reaction. You can trace the roots of this content at n0v@lbin

Thankfully, there’s someone.

Kanno-senpai immediately paused in gulping down refreshments to speak.

“That... You noticed it too, Onoda-kun.”

“Yes, senpai. I did. For those confused, I’ll quickly explain this and move on to suggesting a new strategy to follow that will close that 12-point gap. I asked Eguchi-sensei for this timeout but it’s still up to you whether to listen to me or not.”

I’m not their coach, after all. All of them are more knowledgeable than me when it comes to this sport. That’s why I have to say it.

lightsnοvεl Satsuki’s unwavering eyes landed on me. With her almost blind trust in me, convincing her wouldn’t be difficult. She’s aware that I wouldn’t step up like this if I’m not confident.

As for the others, Kawakami-senpai appeared interested while the rest remained puzzled.

“Ever since the start of the second half, their baskets have been centered around this person.” I started, highlighting the point guard again.

“Every time she gets the ball, they will certainly attempt to break past your defenses and score a point. In particular, this one...” I moved the marker to the shooting guard that was positioned outside the three-point boundary. “... she always prioritizes her when starting the play.”

During the first half, the central brain of the opposing team was their team captain like Kawakami-senpai. However, when those two got subbed in, their plays became centered around the two. And that’s the reason why even though Satsuki and Kanno-senpai’s defense should be near-impenetrable, they still took off with an additional 6-point lead.

“That... I don’t doubt this strategy, Onoda-kun. But how confident are you about this?”

Once I finished delivering everything I had to say, the captain of the basketball club, Kawakami-senpai stepped up to clear any lingering doubts in the others' heads by asking a question. I did expect that so I have a prepared answer.

“80%. I’ve only been observing them for the entirety of the second half. If they substituted a new player halfway then... that will drop to 50%.”

“That’s enough. No. That’s too generous of a chance to turn this situation around. Thank you.”

“Save the gratitude for later, senpai. Go out there and win this for all of us.”

“We will.” With a determined look on their faces, Satsuki, Kawakami-senpai, and the other three confidently strode back to the court.

As we watched their backs as they prepared to give it their all to realize the strategy I gave them, Eguchi-sensei leaned close to my ear and whispered, “Onoda-kun, wanna take my position? I see that you’re more fit to be in this position than me.”

“Nope. Not really. I did that out of desperation and my desire not to see them lose. In the end, I’m still uncertain whether it will be effective or not.”

“You’re too humble... Then I’ll have to keep you close to me instead.”

“Mhm. That’s better.” I said as I sneakily squeezed her hand. With the game already starting, everyone’s attention already returned to the court. And likewise, the cheers once again echoed across the whole venue, drowning out any small noise.

Ten seconds later, Kawakami-senpai landed her first basket after getting the ball from Satsuki. It's a three-point shot from the side.

59-68

9 points left.