Third Set: Wakasa's Unstoppable Dominance
Third Set: Wakasa's Unstoppable Dominance
The energy in the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium was electric as the teams returned to the court for the final set. Nekoma's loss in the second set had lit a fire within their players, particularly Wakasa Kiyoshi, who was determined to finish this match on his terms.
Komomedai, known for their iron wall defense, entered the set with confidence. But Wakasa's sharp eyes and commanding presence made it clear: this set would be different.
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Opening Moments
"Let's finish this," Wakasa said to Kenma as they lined up for the first rally. His voice was calm, but his tone carried undeniable authority.
Kenma gave a small nod, his fingers twitching. "Just be ready."
Hirugami served, sending a jump float that swirled unpredictably. Yaku moved in smoothly, receiving the ball with precision.
"Kenma!" Wakasa called, stepping into position.
Kenma set the ball high and fast, trusting Wakasa to do the rest. The Komomedai blockers scrambled to form their wall, but Wakasa's approach was too quick. He soared above the net, his jump a perfect execution of raw power and precision.
"Cross!" Hirugami yelled, signaling the block.
But Wakasa anticipated it. He swung his arm, delivering a sharp line shot that landed just inside the court.
"Point, Nekoma!"
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Wakasa Takes Control
From that moment, Wakasa became the focal point of Nekoma's offense. Whether it was a quick set, a high toss, or a broken play, he made sure the ball found the floor on Komomedai's side.
"Give it to me!" Wakasa called after a successful dig from Yaku.
Kenma, seeing no better option, sent a back-row set to Wakasa. Despite being several feet behind the attack line, Wakasa leaped as if defying gravity, slamming the ball past Komomedai's libero.
"Unbelievable!" the commentator exclaimed. "Wakasa Kiyoshi is unstoppable right now!"
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Defensive Mastery and Strategy
Komomedai tried to regain their rhythm by utilizing their quick plays and targeting Nekoma's blockers. Their tall middle blocker launched a rapid quick attack, aiming for a gap between Inouka and Kuroo.
"Soft block!" Wakasa called, his voice cutting through the noise.
Kuroo adjusted his position, and the ball was lightly deflected, allowing Yaku to make a perfect dig.
Kenma chuckled. "Always demanding, aren't you?"
"Just set it," Wakasa replied with a smirk.
Kenma obliged, sending a low quick set that Wakasa spiked straight down, earning another point for Nekoma.
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Komomedai's Last Stand
Despite Wakasa's dominance, Komomedai didn't go down without a fight. Hirugami's serves continued to challenge Nekoma's defense, and their libero dug out several of Wakasa's spikes, earning gasps from the crowd.
"They're good," Kuroo muttered, wiping sweat from his brow. "But they can't keep up."
Wakasa grinned, his energy unyielding. "Let's end this."
At 21-15, with Nekoma leading, Komomedai called a timeout to regroup. Their coach urged them to focus on their defense, but the players' fatigue was evident.
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Wakasa's Final Flourish
The final stretch of the set was a showcase of Wakasa's brilliance. Whether it was a cross-court spike, a down-the-line shot, or a smart tip over the block, he found ways to score.
At 24-17, with match point on the line, Wakasa stood at the service line. The gymnasium was silent, the tension palpable.
"Let's make it count," he muttered, tossing the ball into the air.
He unleashed a powerful jump serve that clipped the top of the net and landed just inside the baseline. The whistle blew, and the crowd erupted.
"Match won by Nekoma! Final score: 25-17!"
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Aftermath
As the teams shook hands, Wakasa approached Hirugami.
"You guys were incredible," Wakasa said sincerely.
Hirugami smiled, though he was visibly exhausted. "You're a monster, Wakasa. Looking forward to watching your next match."
The Nekoma players huddled together, celebrating their victory.
"You were insane, Wakasa!" Lev said, patting him on the back.
Kenma smirked, his usual calm demeanor breaking slightly. "You've really made my job easier, you know that?"
Wakasa shrugged. "You set, I score. Simple as that."
As they left the court, the Nekoma players couldn't help but smile. The semifinals awaited, and they were ready for whatever challenge came next.