Chapters 1: The Rising to Power

The sound of the basketball thudding the floor filled the arena. Jaxon Hayes was wiping perspiration from his forehead from central court. His heart hammered from the weight of expectation as much as from the workouts. Juxon, the team's current "Alpha," knew every eye in the room was focused on him. This was about keeping his domination, not just about basketball.

Flashback: Modest Starting Point Juxon's ascent had not been simple. Coming from a difficult area, the basketball floor had been his haven. Every spare minute was used to improve his speed, jump shot, ability to understand the game, etc. For him, it was survival not simply a game. On and off the court he had to be the greatest, the strongest, the "Alpha".

The Rival Tonight's practice was about confronting Liam Carter, not just about getting ready for the first game of the season. the brash rookie having a reputation for regularly showing the veterans. Liam was hungry, not just competent. His movement on the floor, the way he