Which is made a little easier by the fact that, while it’s only ten thirty, I don’t yet have the stamina for these road trips. I’m beat, and I need to be sharp tomorrow for the game.
So I don’t fight it as my eyes start to droop, until abuzzfrom my phone catches my attention.
REMY: I’m sorry I was a brat tonight. Something about being with Mom and Dad makes me regress, I swear.
REMY: Plus the whole team keeps asking me about it. And I don’t know anything, which feels weird.
I get that.
AVERY: It’s okay. They keep texting me too, and now I understand better why.
AVERY: Rawley is great but it’s so new. So there’s not a ton to share. He’s funny and hot and we’re seeing where it goes.
REMY: And you’re happy?
AVERY: I am.
REMY: Okay, good. Don’t think I won’t be asking more questions, but I’ll chill for now.
REMY: You did look really good in the Cleveland game. Like you slotted right into the pros without missing a beat.
AVERY: You will too.
REMY: I hope so.
We talk a little bit longer about her summer plans before we sign off.
And I finally drift off to sleep.
“Sorry,Parker, I know playing in Boston is special to you, but I’m not putting you in as a starter.”
It’s the morning of the game, and I’ve come to the arena early to take some shots before everything gets hectic. A couple of Boston players are doing the same on the other end.
The public isn’t allowed in yet, so the seats are empty, though staff mills in and out of various parts of the stands.
I guess wanting to deliver this message privately, Coach Anker has tracked me down.
Masking my irritation as much as I can, I say the right thing. “It’s okay. I understand.”
“Not going to lie, I’m getting some pressure to move you to the starting five. But, in my opinion, it’s not in your or the team’s best interest. It’s not that you’re incapable of handling it, but we want there to be no doubt you earned it. To protect the dynamics of the team, and shield you from any media crap.”
I appreciate having an explanation, finally. “What will it take?”
She smiles at me. “I’ll know it when I see it. You just keep doing you and getting adjusted to everything.”
Not exactly a clear answer.Ugh.
The fact is I’m beginning to get a little frustrated at myself, not just the situation. Sure, I’m averaging over eleven points and almost four assists, but those are hardly superstar numbers.
I know, I know—it’s only my sixth game, to echo my mom from last night.
But that feels like an excuse, not a reason, when I let myself feel the full weight of my ambition.
I need to step it up to satisfy myself as much as Coach Anker’s vague standards.
But that doesn’t happen tonight, unfortunately.
I dofine. Thirteen points and a beauty of steal that helps us win the game. Our record is 4-2, so that’s solid as well.
