Gemotions

Coach Miller watched the rain streak down the gym windows, blurring the lights of the practice court. He adjusted his glasses, the glare making it hard to see the basketball hoop. It was almost time. He’d put it off as long as he could, hoping some miracle would happen, some improvement that would make the decision unnecessary. It was a cruel thing he had to do.

He pulled the roster from his pocket, the paper crumpled in his sweaty hand. He saw the name, Joshua Bell, circled in red. Joshua was a good kid, always cheerful, always willing to hustle. He thought of Joshua's parents in the stands, beaming with pride, and his stomach twisted.

Miller pushed through the double doors and found Joshua alone, shooting free throws. The rhythmic swish of the ball in the net filled the silence. He cleared his throat. "Joshua, can you come here for a second?"