King_3317

Kendrick "K-Dawg" Rivers has always been the underdog. Growing up in a gritty urban neighborhood where dreams often fade faster than graffiti on abandoned walls, his only way out is basketball. But making it to the top is more than just crossing over defenders or draining three-pointers. It's about survival in a world where hustle off the court is just as important as hustle on it.

Between dealing with a father caught up in gang life, a mother working three jobs, and the weight of the streets dragging him down, Kendrick's shot at the pros seems farther away every day. But when a former NBA player turned coach takes an interest in him, Kendrick gets one last chance to rewrite his story. All he has to do is survive the trials of life, the competition for the spotlight, and a bitter rivalry with his best friend turned enemy, Trenton.

It's a battle for fame, freedom, and a future and Kendrick will have to shed blood, sweat, and hustle to make it.

Blood, Sweat, and Hustle.

A few days later, Kendrick was riding home after an exhausting practice with Coach Ray. He felt a lot cooler this time than previously; his mind was concentrated on the visit to State University, scheduled for this weekend. However, as he turned the corner to his apartment complex, something just didn't feel right.

The street was too quiet; there was none of that chatter and activity that would normally be present. He hastened his steps, as something in him whispered that things were not right.

As he neared the building, he saw a figure leaning against the wall. It was Mo-G, his expression unreadable as he watched Kendrick approach. Standing behind him were a couple of other guys from Trenton's crew, their faces hard and forgiving.

Kendrick's heart raced as he struggled to assess just what was happening. He knew what this was-Trenton hadn't forgotten, and now he was sending a message.

"K-Dawg," Mo-G called out in a smooth voice with menace, "Heard you think you're too good for us now."

Kendrick fought the clench of his fists and made himself keep calm. "I told Trent-I'm done with this life. I'm focused on my future."

Mo-G chuckled and shook his head. "Future? Ain't no future for you without us. The streets own you, K-Dawg. You think you can just walk away?"

Kendrick held his ground. "I ain't goin' to let you or nobody else bring me back."

Mo-G's smile fell. He glared hard at Kendrick. "Wrong answer, bro."

Before Kendrick knew what was happening, one of them attacked him, tugging him by his collar, and slammed him against the wall. Kendrick struggled, but Mo-G stepped forward and placed a finger on his chest.

"This is a warning," he said seriously. "You keep playing this game, thinking you're better than us… next time, it won't be just a talk."

Kendrick's jaw was clenched as he stared back into Mo-G's eyes with no indication of fear. "I'm not afraid of you."

With one last shove, they released him into the darkness as Kendrick breathed deeply. His heart was racing in his chest, combined in a mixture of anger and fear. The streets had just lashed back to remind him of their hold.

But instead, Kendrick felt his determination double. They could try to intimidate him, attempt to brutally scare him into submission, but he wasn't giving up.

As he walked into his apartment, he knew very well that he was playing a dangerous game. Still, he knew that a future was worth fighting for.

Chapter 14: The Streets Strike Back