Chap11: A Choice

I spent some weeks in New York with my family, enjoying some well-earned rest. It felt good to be back in Harlem, surrounded by familiar streets and familiar faces. Which really made me realize that I've been processing Frank's memories as my own for a while.

One of the first things I did was link up with my guy Vic. He'd been blowing up my phone ever since I landed.

"Pres! My bro, the legend himself is back in the city!" Vic shouted as he dapped me up.

I laughed. "Man, chill out. I'm just home for a bit before heading to Chicago."

"Yeah, yeah, whatever," he waved me off. "We gotta hit up the old crew. You know, get some runs in, talk some trash. I know you been hoopin' with the best, but don't forget where you came from."

I smirked. "I never forget, bro."

The rest of the week was all about balance—family, friends, and staying sharp. I spent time with Cee-Cee, caught up with some old teammates, and made sure to hit the gym daily. Even though I was home, my mind was already on Chicago and the work ahead.

I went to our basketball court, see the neighborhood kids play, I was able to say hello to the guys who saw me grow up here, in a way, let's say.

I went to see my aunts who manage the grocery store, at Lincoln Market. And in the evening I hung out with the guys I grew up with, with whom I spent my childhood and with whom I started playing basketball.

In all honesty I had more things to do than I thought.

But it was fun.

I think I'm just realizing that my life is about to change soon.

On May 13...

At the airport, I said goodbye to my Mother, Father, and Cee-Cee. My mother gave me a long hug, holding on like she didn't want to let go.

"Stay focused, baby. This is your dream, don't let anything distract you" She said, her voice firm but caring.

"I know, Mom. I got this" I reassured her.

My dad gave me a nod and a firm handshake. He wasn't the type to say much, but the look in his eyes told me everything—he was proud.

Cee-Cee folded her arms, trying to act tough, but I could see through it. "You better call, Frank. I wanna know everything."

I smirked. "Of course. Don't worry, it's just a few days"

With that, I grabbed my bag and walked toward my flight with Vic beside me. As we reached the gate, I gave him a look. "Yo, listen up. While we're in Chicago, you need to chill. No drama, no trouble. Just let me handle my business."

Vic threw up his hands, grinning. "Man, you act like I go looking for trouble."

I shook my head. "You don't look for it, but it always finds you. Just stay low-key, alright?"

He chuckled. "Alright, alright. I hear you, Pres. Let's go."

With that, we boarded the plane to Chicago. The Draft Combine was waiting.

Arriving in Chicago...

I stepped off the plane.

The city had a different energy and buzzing with history. Whether in this life or in my old life, it's my first time here, and I was already feeling it.

"This city is crazy" I said, looking around.

Vic stretched his arms out. "Chi-Town, baby! The Windy City! We gotta hit some spots before you get locked in at the Combine."

I shook my head with a smirk. "Yeah, yeah, but nothing too wild. I need to stay focused."

We grabbed our bags and headed to our hotel. After checking in, we hit the streets, walking through downtown, taking in the sights. The Willis Tower, Millennium Park, and, of course, a pizza at Giordano's. Good spot.

Later that night, after spending the day exploring the city, we headed back to the hotel, exhausted but satisfied. Chicago was dope, but I knew I had to stay locked in for what was coming.

The next day, we took it easy. No rushing around, no distractions—just pure recovery. Vic was chilling on his phone while I watched some film, going over what to expect at the Combine.

So far I'm pretty confident about that. While I was watching the videos I received a message from my agent.

Dom Pagnotti: Just to know how you feel about tomorrow?

Me: I feel good Dom, honestly I'm in good shape and well rested, so I'm ready.

Dom Pagnotti: Good because thanks to the draft combine and what you have already accomplished at the College level. I will be able to start conversations for deals with shoe brands.

Me: oh i see.

Dom Pagnotti: Do you have an idea of ​​which brands interest you or not?

I thought for a few seconds and an idea came to mind.

'Nike, Adidas are already in place with many other athletes who have signed with them, and I don't want to be seen as one of them'.

So knowing that we are in 2013 I have a lot to play, why not go with Puma.

In the future they offered the MB range, which I particularly liked, but it took them a while to establish themselves before that in basketball shoes.

They are rather known around the world for their football (soccer) shoes with Neymar for example. I could simply be the face of their brand on the basketball side, like Curry is for Under Armour.

Me: Dom, I want Puma.

Dom Pagnotti: Puma?

Dom Pagnotti: Pres why would you do that?

Me: Dom trust me on this one, I can't explain it to you but I think it's the right choice to make.

Dom Pagnotti: Well if you say so, if you are sure of yourself, it's up to you anyway. I'll contact them to see what we can get out of it and get back to you. Ciao

Me: Go ahead Dom, you'll tell me.

In short the conversation was over, I'm going to eat then go to bed the next few days will be busy for me.