Inouka: The Unsung Hero
Inouka: The Unsung Hero
As the referee blew the final whistle, declaring Nekoma the victors, the court erupted with cheers from their supporters. The Nekoma players celebrated, their energy electric as they gathered in a huddle.
But amidst the chaos, it wasn't Wakasa's spikes or Kenma's pinpoint sets that took center stage—it was Inouka So, the middle blocker who had crushed Itachiyama's fighting spirit with his relentless mind games and flawless execution.
"Inouka! Inouka!" the team chanted as they hoisted him up into a celebratory hug.
Inouka squirmed, laughing nervously. "Hey, hey, it was a team effort! Don't make it all about me!"
"Shut up, MVP!" Kuroo teased, grinning as he ruffled Inouka's hair. "You practically broke their setter in half with your garbage talk. That's MVP-level play right there!"
Kenma, usually reserved, added quietly, "You controlled the tempo of the entire match. That's why we won."
Wakasa smirked, his respect evident. "I'll admit it—you're scarier than you look, Inouka."
The middle blocker flushed under the attention but smiled proudly. "Thanks, guys. Let's just keep winning, yeah?"
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Award Ceremony: Nekoma Takes the Crown
The players lined up for the award ceremony as the announcer called out the winners. Nekoma stood in their red and black jerseys, pride shining on their faces as they accepted their medals. The gold gleamed under the gym lights, symbolizing the culmination of their hard work.
"Ladies and gentlemen, your champions: Nekoma High School!"
The crowd erupted in applause, with fans chanting their names. Among them, banners with Wakasa, Kuroo, and Kenma's faces waved proudly, but one name was louder than the rest: Inouka So.
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MVP Announcement
"And now," the announcer continued, "the Most Valuable Player of the match, chosen for his outstanding contributions in both strategy and play: Inouka So from Nekoma!"
Inouka's eyes widened in shock as his teammates erupted in cheers, patting him on the back and pushing him forward.
"Go on, MVP!" Wakasa said, laughing.
Inouka stepped up hesitantly, receiving his MVP plaque. The crowd cheered as he held it up, his teammates shouting his name from the sidelines.
"Uh…thank you," he said into the mic, his voice shaky. "I couldn't have done it without my team. This is for Nekoma."
The crowd roared, and his teammates rushed to his side, hugging him again.
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A Team United
As the ceremony ended, Coach Nekomata stood with his players, his usually stern expression softened by pride.
"You all played like champions," he said. "But remember—this is just one step. Keep working hard, and we'll achieve even greater things."
Kuroo grinned. "Hear that? Even Coach is smiling today. Must be a special occasion!"
The players laughed, their camaraderie stronger than ever. As they posed for photos with their trophy, Wakasa leaned toward Inouka.
"Guess you're not just the backbone of the team—you're the brain too."
Inouka smirked. "And you're just the hammer I swing."
With their victory sealed and their bonds stronger than ever, Nekoma looked ahead to their next challenge, ready to face whatever came their way as a united team.