Chapter 84: Horizon VS Seiryuu : Breaking the Algorithm
The atmosphere inside the locker room was electric. No words were needed; each player knew their role and the strategy ahead. The initial formation was aggressive, focusing on offense: Dirga at point guard, Kaito as shooting guard, Aizawa at small forward, Taiga at power forward, and Rikuya anchoring the center. Coach Tsugawa planned to rotate players swiftly to maintain a relentless pace, aiming to overwhelm the opposition.
"If they’re a dam, we’ll be the waterfall," someone muttered, encapsulating the team’s determination. Horizon entered the court with unwavering resolve.
"Today, we witness a remarkable matchup," the announcer’s voice echoed through the arena.
"A newly formed team has surged into the regional top four in their debut year. Both teams from Osaka have made significant strides, showcasing exceptional skill. Horizon faces the formidable Wakayama Seiryuu, a team known for its evolving data-driven play and a lineup of seasoned third-year starters. In contrast, Horizon boasts a mix of experience and youthful energy, with first-year talents like Dirga, Taiga, Hiroki, and Rei, second-year players Kaito and Aizawa, and the seasoned third-year Rikuya."
"It’s a classic underdog versus veteran scenario," another commentator added. "Both teams bring unique strengths to the court."
As Horizon warmed up, the referee signaled for both teams to take their positions. Just before the tip-off, Dirga activated his analytical skills, scanning both Seiryuu and his own team, preparing for the battle ahead.
The arena pulsed like a living heart—filled with flashing banners, murmuring spectators, the faint aroma of sweat and energy drinks, and the smooth tension of polished hardwood under buzzing lights. Cameras panned. Cheer squads tensed. Commentators hushed their pre-game chatter as the players took their positions.
In that moment—seconds before the whistle—Dirga activated his Scan.
It wasn’t flashy. No glowing HUD, no AR lenses. Just raw instinct honed through years of reincarnated insight. Patterns formed. Stats aligned. Weaknesses whispered. And like a tactician before war, Dirga stared into the storm.
WAKAYAMA SEIRYUU
Seta Naoto (PG)