Prologue:

The gymnasium echoes with the sound of squeaking sneakers and murmured disappointment. The scoreboard displays the final score, a harsh reminder of another defeat.

Milo sits on the bench, feeling the sting of yet another loss. He watches as the senior players, including the captain, exchange quick goodbyes. Their indifference is palpable, leaving Milo and the rest of the team in a cloud of uncertainty.

"Guess this is it," one of them says, shrugging. "Good luck next year. You'll need it."

Milo feels a mix of frustration and determination. Unlike his teammates, he sees an opportunity in their departure—a chance to step up and make the starting lineup.

"This is my chance," he thinks, standing up with a newfound resolve. "Next year, everything changes. There's nothing standing in my way now."

He takes a deep breath, ready to embrace the future and the promise of a new beginning.