Night Hoops

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussions of animal cruelty and death and graphic violence. 

Before the Bothell Cougars play their first game against the Juanita Rebels, Scott tells Nick what the Dawson brothers did. A cyclist saw dead roosters and chickens on the bike path. They were beaten with a baseball bat. Michael, Katya’s brother, witnessed the animal abuse, but Michael’s story changes. Sometimes, he says it was only Zack; other times, he says it was just Trent; then, he claims both brothers took part. Scott doesn’t think anything will happen to the brothers. He can’t fathom Michael testifying in court.

The first game occurs on a cold December day, and the weather impacts the Bothell players. During the warmups, Nick sees his “beaming” Dad. He wonders why Mom isn’t next to him, and then he realizes that she and Scott are probably sitting on the other side of the gym.

The game starts, and Nick has selfish thoughts about Carlos Fabroa, who plays the same position as Nick and gets most of the minutes. Juanita’s lead grows to seven points, and O’Leary puts Nick and Luke in the game. They’re nervous, but they play well, cutting the lead to four before halftime.