CHAPTER 7

GAME TIME

For fans of the North Bronx Knights, it was easy to see that Devon was not his usual self on the court during Friday night’s game. He had been out of sync with his team all week. And now his back was sore from his failed attempt at the Tuck No Hander.

The Knights beat the Liberators 80–47, but Devon had six turnovers. His defense was slow, and his heart wasn’t in the game.

After the game, his teammates celebrated their victory. Devon made a beeline toward his parents.

Dad’s disappointment was clear on his face. Outside, he finally broke the silence.

“You know, son, the next game is . . . ,” Dad began.

But Devon was not paying attention to his father’s words. On the other side of the parking lot, Jamal was at the top of the ramp.

Devon’s parents followed his gaze. His mother could clearly see her son’s fascination. He was hooked.

But Dad was less thrilled. “Who is that boy?” he asked. “Is he the one you were biking with before? The boy who got you into that mess with practice?”

Devon didn’t answer any of his father’s questions. His eyes were fixed on Jamal. The other boy flew down the ramp and into the air above the parking lot. Jamal kept pedaling midair.

Devon recognized the trick from the videos he’d seen online. It was called ET, just like the movie.

Devon’s father looked livid. “Where is this school’s security? Or your coach?” he demanded.

Devon couldn’t hold his tongue any longer. “Stop, Dad! That’s my friend, Jamal. He’s the one who introduced me to BMX. He’s cool, and I love it, and it’s just—”

“Enough!” Dad interrupted. “You’re a basketball player. End of story. I’m not going to watch you throw away all our hard work on some new hobby. Get in the car now.”