There were over 300 teams in Akron this weekend for the Coach Dru Joyce Classic.
Referees became the rule of law for 24 minutes, then changed their black/white striped shirts and checked their phones. Buzzers blasted from scoreboards. New shoes screeched up and down the courts. Team benches were moved into like a messy closet then vacated. Gatorade, sticky pads that prep shoes, knapsacks filled with hoodies and street sneakers. White earbuds curled under big hair. Toes pointed down and hands reached for the heavens. It was all perfectly choreographed, then it was over with a medal, a pose, and car trunks being filled up.
It was Sunday. Tomorrow is school and work.