Courtside Hearts

Chapter 17 - Escape

The gym at BINI University buzzed with activity. It wasn't the usual roar of sneakers on hardwood or the echo of basketballs bouncing. Today, the gym was filled with cameras, reporters, and a palpable excitement. This was media day, the first of its kind for BINI University as the team celebrated their historic entry into the post-season tournament. The final game was behind them, but the spotlight now focused on what lay ahead: their chance to make history in the tournament.

Colet sat on a stool in front of a large media backdrop, her gaze steady as the cameras clicked away. She was no stranger to attention, but this was different. The stakes were higher, the weight of the school's expectations heavy on her shoulders. One reporter stepped forward, microphone in hand, and gave a nod to signal the beginning of the interview.

"Hello, Ms. Vergara," the reporter began, her voice warm yet professional. "First off, congratulations to you and your team for securing BINI University's first-ever post-season berth! This must be a huge moment for you all. Can you share with us your reaction and plans coming into this post-season tournament?"

Colet smiled briefly, but her expression was serious. "Thank you," she began, her voice clear despite the nerves that still occasionally tightened her throat. "It's an incredible feeling to finally get here, not just for me, but for everyone who's been a part of this journey. This team has worked harder than ever, and being the first to take BINI University to the post-season is something special. We've all wanted this for a long time."

She paused, glancing briefly at the cameras before continuing. "As for the post-season... we know it's going to be a whole different level of competition. Our focus is staying sharp during this break, preparing ourselves mentally and physically. I think the most important thing is that we don't let the pressure get to us. This is new territory for us, but we're ready to take it on."

The reporter leaned in slightly, her curiosity piqued. "You've been a key player in leading your team to this moment. How do you feel personally, especially after that final game?"

Colet took a moment to think, her eyes drifting to where Aiah stood talking to another reporter. "Personally, it feels like redemption," she admitted. "Last season, we came so close, and I've carried that with me. But this season was different. We're not just playing for redemption anymore; we're playing because we know we belong here. I'm proud of what we've accomplished, but there's still a lot of work to be done."

On the opposite side of the gym, Aiah stood beneath the harsh glare of camera lights, feeling the weight of the moment. Her heart raced, not from nerves but from the reality of where she was standing. This wasn't just any interview—it was the first of its kind for her, representing something she had dreamed about but never thought would come so soon.

The reporter smiled brightly at her, holding the microphone up with practiced poise. "Hello, Ms. Arceta," she began, her voice ringing clear against the backdrop of bustling media day. "First of all, congratulations to you and your team. What a remarkable achievement!"

Aiah, who was still not used to the attention, gave a polite nod, her lips forming a shy smile. "Thank you," she said softly, her words measured but sincere.

"We'd love to hear your reaction," the reporter continued, "especially since this is your first post-season tournament. How does it feel to be part of this groundbreaking moment for BINI University?"

Aiah took a deep breath, her eyes momentarily wandering over to Colet, who was still being interviewed on the other side of the court. It was surreal to think about how far they'd come together. "It feels... amazing," she started, her voice a little steadier now. "To be part of a team that's making history—it's overwhelming in the best way possible. We've worked really hard for this, and even though this is my first post-season, I can feel the energy and excitement building within the team. We're all just so motivated to go out there and prove that we deserve to be here."