Content Warning: This section depicts substance use and physical abuse.



On Wednesday morning, Lionel feels nervous. He has planned out all his movements on the court to impress Coach Barber at tryouts. Dontrell has written an essay about not believing in the American dream—a good idea that makes Lionel feels jealous. Lionel lashes out, accusing Dontrell of acting like an “honor student” and emphasizing that they are both “stuck at the bottom” (95). As Lionel speaks, he feels angry with himself. Dontrell is surprised and calls Lionel’s reaction “stupid,” a word that makes Lionel feel “white-hot rage” (96). The teacher stops their quarrel. Lionel imagines shoving the teacher, beating Dontrell, and hearing Malika scream. Inside him, though, he knows he knows it would be wrong. He believes he should instead use his anger on the court. After class, Lionel tells his teacher he forgot the essay draft. The teacher wants to discuss this with Lionel after school, but he protests that he has basketball tryouts. The teacher suggests that school is more important. Lionel leaves, determined to go to the tryouts.

Lionel goes to the gym. Students arrive to watch him, including Malika. The coaches gather the players and encourage them.