Gemotions

The smell of sawdust and stale popcorn assaulted his nostrils. The bright lights of the basketball court seemed to intensify, making him dizzy. He clutched his worn basketball, the leather rough against his trembling hands. The echoing sounds of dribbling and shouting pierced through the fog in his mind.

He couldn't make eye contact. He kept his gaze fixed on the gleaming hardwood floor, the intricate patterns of the wood seeming to mock him. The other players were loud and jovial. He felt the weight of their gaze on him.

Coach Davis had delivered the news moments ago, his voice professional, the words concise and devastating. He felt a burning sensation in his throat. He wished he could just run. He felt the blood pounding in his ears.