Foul Trouble

“A coach’s kid, he’d been around the game all his life. He knew the history, the X’s and O’s, the options. Which made him a terrific point guard, running the offense for his team. He knew each of his teammates’ abilities, knew where the ball should go—usually to Terrell. Where Danny spent the game analyzing, Terrell just played. He had the kind of raw ability that made his game look effortless.”

These lines from Danny’s perspective establish the differences between Danny and Terrell, showing that Danny demonstrates self-awareness and is fully aware that his strengths lie in understanding the game rather than exhibiting unique gameplay itself. By contrast, Terrell’s skills are more focused on making dramatic and decisive shots. The final line in this quotation speaks to the hard work that athletes must put into gameplay and teamwork.

“‘That was a great win today, especially with Danny sitting out those last few minutes. Danny, you need to remember how much your dad and Terrell need you out there in tight games.’

Danny instantly liked Tom Konchalski. For one thing, he hadn’t looked right through him to get to Terrell. Plus, he had just said that Danny had an important role to play on the court.”

The dialogue here is spoken by Tom Konchalski, a fictional character who is based on the real-life basketball recruiter of the same name. In the real world, Konchalski was known for being honest and paying attention to everyone, not just the star players, and Feinstein shows this dynamic here with Konchalski’s thoughtful focus on Danny as well as Terrell. This moment is critical to Danny’s character growth. Before this conversation, Danny believed that his only role on the team was to get the ball to Terrell so that Terrell could score. Konchalski’s assessment makes Danny realize all that he does for the team. Danny’s ability to assess the game and adjust accordingly is just as valuable as Terrell’s talent for making baskets, even if it is less impressive to spectators.