As Peter delved into learning about Royal Basket, the largest basketball team in Makay and partially owned by the royal family, he recognized a strategic opportunity to set his plans in motion. With a connection to such a prominent sports organization, he felt he could make significant strides toward achieving his goals.

However, Peter knew that the first step was crucial. He needed to select the right individual to receive the card—a person with a genuine passion for basketball and the right attributes, such as a strong defensive game and a high basketball IQ.

Considering the popularity of football in Makay, Peter made a calculated decision to begin with basketball. His long-term vision involved establishing a professional football league in the country, but that would come later. For now, he would focus on identifying the perfect candidate to receive the card and initiating the transformation he envisioned for Makay's sports scene.

POV Royal Basket Training:

Amid the heated basketball match, the perspective shifts to a young athlete named Daniel Mori, a dedicated player on the Royal Basket U-18 team. Despite being faced with an opponent towering over him by at least a head, Daniel fearlessly engages in defense. With remarkable agility, he swiftly seizes the ball and takes off on a lightning-fast break down the court, culminating in a polished finish.

On the sidelines, attention is drawn to two individuals engaged in conversation. To the left stands an elder statesman named Albert, engaged in dialogue with a middle-aged man donning a crisp suit. The man in the suit poses a question to Albert, who appears to have a wealth of knowledge and experience.

Suit Guy: "Albert, who among these young talents do you believe has the potential to secure a lasting spot on the team?"

Albert, a seasoned observer of basketball talent, begins to share his insights.

Albert: "Well, there are a few standout prospects to consider. First, we have Jerome Thornton, a versatile small forward/power forward hybrid standing at an impressive 6 foot 8 inches (203cm). Jerome excels as a finisher and possesses a remarkable transition game. Moreover, he possesses the necessary attributes to develop into an exceptional defender. Despite being a bit undersized for the power forward position, he has the potential to shine at this level of competition."

Continuing his evaluation, Albert mentions another promising player.

Albert: "Next, we have Felix Ando, a talented point guard measuring 6 feet (183cm). Felix boasts outstanding court vision, maintains a commendably low turnover rate, and displays a willingness to contribute on the defensive end. However, there are instances where his personal offensive performance can be somewhat inconsistent."

With a nod, Albert shares his assessments of the two prospects, leaving the suit guy contemplating the future of the team and its potential stars.

Albert let out a heavy sigh as he began to discuss the last player on his list, Daniel Mori. The young small forward, standing at 6 feet 1 inch (185cm), was undeniably undersized for his position. Despite his height disadvantage, Daniel's work ethic was unmatched, earning him a reputation as the hardest-working player Albert had ever encountered. His defensive prowess and high basketball IQ were undeniable, but his offensive abilities were hindered by his stature. Against larger opponents, especially big wings, Daniel faced significant challenges on the offensive end.

After laying out Daniel's strengths and weaknesses, Albert observed the suit guy's response. As expected, the suit guy offered his assessment.

Suit Guy: "Well, the first two prospects do seem intriguing, but, Albert, you may want to consider letting go of Daniel. While he might excel in this amateur league, there's little chance he'll ever make it as a professional basketball player."

Albert, no stranger to such discouraging opinions, brushed off the suit guy's critique and walked away, his determination unwavering. An assistant coach hurriedly approached Albert, delivering news that altered the course of their training session. The new King was scheduled to attend the training that day, prompting Albert to delegate his responsibilities to the assistant coach for the time being.

As Peter, Sebas, and the Royal Guards arrived at the training facility of Royal Basket, a sense of anticipation filled the air. The facility was nestled within the only fully professional basketball stadium in Makay, boasting a capacity of 18 thousand spectators. It was a place where dreams were nurtured and talents were honed.

Their arrival didn't go unnoticed, and soon a familiar face emerged from the training area to greet them. It was Albert Chang, a man in his seventies, who held a prominent role as the leader of the youth development system at Royal Basket. Upon seeing Albert, Peter's memory stirred, and he recognized the veteran basketball figure.

Peter: "Albert Chang, long time no see."

Albert: "Indeed, Your Highness. It's been a while since I last had the honor of your presence here."

The two exchanged warm greetings, and Peter, Sebastien, and Albert embarked on a short conversation. They reminisced about old times, sharing anecdotes that harked back to earlier days. Albert's wealth of experience in nurturing young basketball talents undoubtedly contributed to the success of the Royal Baskets.

Albert: "Sebas, remember when we used to come here and watch these young talents take their first steps on the court?"

Sebas: "Of course, Albert. Those were great times. And look at where we are now."

With their brief walk down memory lane concluded, the trio made their way up to the second floor, where they could observe the ongoing training session. The sound of basketballs bouncing and sneakers squeaking on the hardwood court greeted them as they settled in to watch the promising players in action.

As they took their seats, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation and the promise of potential greatness, all within the hallowed halls of Royal Basket's training facility.

The basketball court was a flurry of motion and strategy as two teams faced off in a spirited training game. On one side stood Daniel, determined and fierce, ready to showcase his skills. Opposite him were Felix and Jerome, a dynamic duo that had a chemistry born from countless hours on the court together.

The game was marked by several highlights, with each player leaving their mark on the hardwood:

Daniel's Steal and Finish: Right from the tip-off, Daniel was a force to be reckoned with on defense. He quickly stole the ball and executed a fast break, finishing with finesse at the rim and drawing early cheers from the spectators.

Felix's Precise Passing: Felix demonstrated his exceptional court vision and passing skills. He orchestrated the offense with precision, setting up his teammates for open shots and creating opportunities.

Jerome's Dominant Presence: Jerome, with his imposing height, was a force in the paint. He grabbed rebounds and scored with ease in the post, making it challenging for the opposing team to defend against his physicality.

Daniel's Defensive Tenacity: Despite being undersized, Daniel's defensive tenacity shone brightly. He disrupted plays, forced turnovers, and showcased his incredible defensive instincts throughout the game.

Felix and Jerome's Two-Man Game: The true highlight of the game was the seamless synergy between Felix and Jerome. They ran a flawless two-man game, with Felix delivering precise passes to Jerome in the post or kicking it out to him on the perimeter. Jerome capitalized on these opportunities with powerful finishes and three-point shots.

Despite Daniel's outstanding individual efforts and his team's determination, the relentless two-man game of Felix and Jerome ultimately proved to be too much to handle. Felix's passing and playmaking skills perfectly complemented Jerome's scoring prowess. In the end, their teamwork and chemistry propelled their team to victory.

The training game served as a testament to the talent and potential of these young players, with Daniel shining brightly, even in defeat.

Peter, intrigued by Daniel's performance and Albert's insights, decided to delve deeper into the young athlete's situation. He turned to Albert, inquiring about Daniel's potential and the challenges he faced.

Peter: "Albert, it's clear that Daniel has some exceptional qualities, particularly on the defensive end. What's holding him back from reaching his full potential?"

Albert, a seasoned observer of talent, paused for a moment before providing a candid response.

Albert: "Your Highness, Daniel's size is the primary factor limiting his prospects. He's an exceptional defender with unmatched tenacity and basketball IQ. If he were just four inches (10cm) taller, there's a good chance he could aspire to the NBA with his skill set."

Peter, always keen to explore opportunities for his new endeavor involving the athlete templates, saw potential in Daniel. He considered the possibility of Daniel being the right candidate for the Dr. J Card, which aligned with his vision of nurturing talent and contributing to Makay's athletic legacy.

With his interest piqued, Peter decided to approach Daniel and initiate a conversation, hoping to gauge his aspirations, ambitions, and willingness to embrace the opportunity that lay ahead.