Timeline: July 2, 2010
Jonathan, now inhabiting the body of Ethan Albarado, sat on the edge of his bed, the morning light filtering through the curtains. His mind buzzed with thoughts about the upcoming day and the game that awaited. As he stretched and tried to shake off the last remnants of sleep, he mentally called out to his system.
"System, open my status."
A transparent window appeared in his vision, displaying his current stats.
Status:
Name: Ethan Albarado
Level: Rookie
Upgrade Points (UP): 40
Shop Points (SP): 600
Core Attributes
[Offensive Attributes:]
Shooting Accuracy - 6
Layup Skill - 4
Dunk Skill - 3
Dribbling Skill - 4
Passing Skill - 5
[Defensive Attributes:]
Defense - 3
Blocking Ability - 3
Steal Skill - 4
[Physical Attributes:]
Stamina - 4
Endurance - 4
Speed - 4
Skills:
Basic Power Shot - This skill represents the fundamental shooting technique of a player. It enables you to take and make basic shots with average accuracy, providing a solid starting point for improving your shooting skills.
Basic Precision Pass - This skill covers the essential passing technique for beginners. It helps in making basic, accurate passes to teammates, ensuring you can effectively move the ball around without advanced flair.
Basic Dribble - This skill provides the fundamental dribbling technique needed to control the ball while moving. It helps you navigate the court and maintain possession with average handling, laying the groundwork for more advanced dribbling skills.
Ethan studied the attributes carefully, noting the areas where he was already decent and others that needed improvement.
"System," he asked mentally, "can you explain Upgrade Points to me? I know that they can be used to enhance attributes, but does adding 1 UP directly increase the attribute by 1 point?"
The system responded with a calm, robotic tone, "No, Host. To increase an attribute by 1 point, you must use 2 Upgrade Points."
"So, if I want to upgrade my defense, it will cost me 2 UP to increase it by 1 point?" Ethan clarified.
"Yes, Host," the system confirmed.
Ethan sighed, feeling a mixture of relief and slight disappointment. "I see. It's not as overpowered as I thought, but it's still pretty versatile and can be quite powerful."
As he pondered his next moves, he felt a surge of excitement and anticipation. Today was a big day, not just for him but for the entire team. It was a chance to prove himself, to use this new life and these newfound abilities to pursue his dream of becoming a professional basketball player. The road ahead was uncertain, but one thing was clear: he loved basketball, and he was ready to give it his all.
Ethan pondered his options, contemplating how best to utilize his Upgrade Points. He knew that enhancing his dribbling skills and speed would be crucial for making an impact on the court.
"Since I have 40 Upgrade Points," Ethan thought, "I should focus on improving my dribbling skills and speed. My shooting accuracy is already pretty good, probably because I practiced a lot even while I was in a wheelchair. That's why it's at 10, which is above average. But my dribbling and speed could use some work."
Ethan spoke aloud, his voice filled with determination, "I'll use 10 Upgrade Points on my dribbling skills, which are currently at 4. This should bring them up to 9. And then I'll use the remaining 10 Upgrade Points on my speed, also raising it from 4 to 9. That should make me faster, not lightning-fast, but definitely above average."
As he allocated the points, he could feel a subtle shift in his body, as if his muscles and reflexes were adjusting to the newfound enhancements. It was a strange but empowering sensation.
He then addressed the system, "System, with these upgrades, where do I stand now?"
The system responded with its usual calm tone, "Host, the average untalented basketball player has attributes around 6 points. With your dribbling skills and speed now at 9 points, you are above average for an untalented player, though still not at the level of professionals or highly talented individuals."
Ethan winced slightly at the system's blunt assessment, but he quickly shrugged it off. "Ouch, that hurts," he muttered, but deep down, he felt encouraged. This was just the beginning, and he was already making progress. He knew that with hard work and the help of the system, he could continue to improve and maybe even surpass those who were more naturally talented.
"(I won't use my remaining upgrade for now)"
As Ethan sat at his bed, he have a deep focus in his eyes as he considered the best use of his Shop Points. With 600 Shop Points at his disposal, he knew he had some exciting options available to him.
"I have 600 Shop Points," Ethan murmured, his mind racing through possibilities. "What should I spend them on?"
The system responded promptly, "Affirmative, Host. Here is the list of items worth 500 Shop Points."
A transparent window appeared in front of him, detailing several intriguing options. Ethan's eyes were drawn to three particular items:
Shop List Worth 500 Shop Points:
Shaquille O'Neal Post Moves (Intermediate Level) - 500 SP
Effect: Enhances post moves and scoring in the paint, making it easier to score against defenders in close range.
Magic Johnson Passing Vision (Intermediate Level) - 500 SP
Effect: Increases passing accuracy and vision, making it easier to find and assist teammates. Boosts overall playmaking abilities.
Hakeem Olajuwon Dream Shake (Intermediate Level) - 500 SP
Effect: Improves footwork and agility in the post, making it harder for defenders to block or steal the ball.
Vince Carter's High Flyer (Intermediate Level) - 500 SP
Effect: Increases dunk skill and aerial agility. Adds the ability to perform spectacular dunks and high-flying moves.
Dirk Nowitzki's Fadeaway (Intermediate Level) - 500 SP
Effect: Perfects the fadeaway shot with improved accuracy and grace. Greatly enhances mid-range shooting.
More....
Ethan scanned the list, contemplating each option. His thoughts were particularly drawn to the Hakeem Olajuwon Dream Shake and Magic Johnson Passing Vision.
"Man, there are so many great options," Ethan said aloud. "But what really intrigues me are Hakeem Olajuwon's Dream Shake and Magic Johnson's Passing Vision."
He contemplated for a moment, then said to himself, "I only have 500 Shop Points, so I'll need to choose wisely. The Magic Johnson Passing Vision is legendary and significantly boosts playmaking compared to the ordinary Playmaker's Vision. I think I'll invest in that."
With a decisive click, Ethan selected Magic Johnson Passing Vision. Instantly, he felt a surge of knowledge and experience flood his mind. It was as though he had lived through the legendary player's experiences, gaining profound insights into passing and court vision.
"Damn," Ethan muttered, amazed at the sensation. "And this is just the intermediate level. How awesome is this!"
As he absorbed the newfound knowledge, he felt a boost in confidence and excitement. He was now equipped with a skill that would elevate his game significantly. Ethan knew this was just the beginning. The upcoming game would be his chance to put these new abilities to the test and show what he was truly capable of.
Ethan looked forward to the challenges ahead, ready to embrace his new role with enthusiasm and determination. The game was just hours away, and he was prepared to give it everything he had.
Ethan stood up from his bed, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. He opened his bedroom door and made his way to the living room, where he found his family gathered. Despite being Jonathan Brandit in Ethan Albarado's body, the fusion of their memories made the transition seamless; it felt like he had always been Ethan.
In the living room, his parents were seated on the couch, engaged in a quiet conversation, while his little sister, Anna, was sitting on the floor, playing with some toys.
His mother Elle was seated on the couch, reading a book, her yellow hair catching the light and adding a warm hue to the room. His father Alfred Albarado, with his black hair and blue eyes, was lounging in an armchair, reading the newspaper. They both looked up as Ethan approached, their expressions a mix of curiosity and warmth.
Anna looked up as Ethan entered the room. At 10 years old, she had inherited their father's black hair and tanned skin, giving her a distinctive appearance compared to Ethan's lighter complexion and yellow hair, which he inherited from their mother. Ethan's blue eyes were a mirror of their father's, while Anna's brown eyes resembled their mother's.
Anna looked up and smiled as Ethan entered. "Good morning, Ethan!" she said cheerfully.
Ethan returned the smile, his heart warmed by the familiar sight of his family. "Morning, Anna." he replied, his voice carrying a genuine warmth.
His mother Elle Albarado set her book aside and said, "Good morning, Ethan. How are you feeling today?"
Ethan replied with a relaxed tone, "I'm doing well, Mom. Just excited for the game today."
His father Alfred, looking over his newspaper, added, "That's good to hear. Remember to stay focused and give it your best."
As he sat down with his family, Ethan glanced at Anna, who was still absorbed in her game. Her innocence and joy were a refreshing reminder of the simple pleasures in life, and he felt a renewed sense of determination. Today was a big day, not just for him but for his whole team, and he was ready to face the challenges ahead with a clear mind and a strong heart.
.....
Meanwhile, outside Lucas Graves' house, the air was cool and crisp as the sun began to rise. The neighborhood was quiet, with only the occasional rustle of leaves and distant chirping of birds breaking the silence. The basketball hoop attached to the side of the house stood like a sentinel, waiting for its moment of action.
Lucas stood at the edge of the driveway, the basketball in his hands. His focus was unwavering as he prepared to put his newly acquired abilities to the test. The pill he took from the old man had given him the power of Absolute Mimicry, and now it was time to see how well he could apply it.
Lucas looked determined as he started practicing. He dribbled the ball between his legs smoothly and in control. The ball bounced steadily against the pavement, making a soft sound in the quiet morning.
Lucas then started dribbling the ball behind his back. He moved smoothly, changing direction with ease. It was as if his body knew exactly what to do, each dribble helping him improve his skills.
As Lucas dribbled, he focused on his shooting. He stayed balanced and steady, keeping his eyes locked on the hoop. With a quick and controlled motion, he released the ball. It flew in a smooth arc, hit the rim perfectly, and swished through the net.
Lucas felt proud as he watched the ball go in. He kept repeating the motion, each shot getting smoother and more accurate. His movements felt sharper, and he could sense the power of his mimicry kicking in. It was like he was absorbing the skills of the players he had watched and making them his own.
As he practiced, Lucas couldn't help but notice the difference in his performance. The techniques he had once struggled with now seemed second nature. His dribbling was sharper, his shooting more accurate. The progress was exhilarating.
A few neighbors passing by took notice of Lucas's impressive skills. Some exchanged curious glances, while others simply nodded in approval. It wasn't every day that someone displayed such remarkable talent in their driveway.
Lucas paused for a moment, catching his breath and wiping sweat from his brow. He looked up at the sky, a smile spreading across his face. The new abilities granted by the old man were proving to be a game-changer, and Lucas felt more confident than ever about his future on the court.
"I'm ready," Lucas said to himself, his voice filled with excitement and determination. "Today's game is going to be something special."
With renewed energy and focus, Lucas continued his practice, eagerly anticipating the challenges and triumphs that awaited him on the basketball court.
To be continue