Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of bullying.

The only kids present for Hoop Group tryouts are Dex and Anthony. Principal Kim tries to keep the three young people positive by playing an inspiring song on her phone, but Tamika is discouraged and negative. However, Anthony and Dex remain positive, with Dex boasting about his basketball knowledge and suggesting that they could entice people to join if they offer kids one-on-one sessions with Coach Beck—the same coach who taught Kendrick King.

Like Jayden, Dex wants to attend Willow Brook Academy, but for academics, not sports. Dex plans to become a wealth manager for star athletes. Cognizant that he lacks the talent to be a wealthy NBA player, he can help rich NBA players wisely invest their money.

In creative writing class, Ms. Cahill puts the students in pairs so that they can share their work. Dex and Chris are partners. Trying to coax Chris back to Hoop Group, Dex extols Tamika’s coaching skills and promises to help Chris with his assignments. Chris shows up to practice, though it’ll make him an hour late for the Ballers’ practice.