Gemotions

The coach’s words hung in the air, thick and heavy like the humidity in the gym. “Ethan, we need you at guard. Your speed, your court vision… it’s what we’re missing.” Ethan looked at his teammates, their faces a mix of surprise and uncertainty. He’d poured his heart into perfecting his post game, the grueling hours of drills, the endless repetition. Now, it felt like all of that was… diminished.

He watched the smile on the coach’s face, which seemed genuine enough. Ethan knew the team’s needs were paramount, yet he couldn't help but feel a sudden drop in his stomach. The transition would be massive.

Ethan forced a nod, the lump in his throat making the simple movement difficult. The coach clapped him on the shoulder, a gesture that felt oddly hollow. He made his way to the bench, the sound of his cleats on the polished wood a hollow echo. He saw his friend Liam, the starting guard, giving him a look of shared concern.