NBA: LeBron James wants to team up with me

The atmosphere in the Marquette University locker room was electric with celebration. The players were rejoicing over their historic victory, having clinched their first NCAA Championship. Champagne was flowing and the air was filled with laughter and cheers. The excitement of victory was palpable, but in the midst of the festivities, Wang Chong seemed lost in thought, still trying to come to terms with the surreal experience of the championship and the new abilities the system had bestowed upon him.

Wang Chong had been absent for a while, immersed in the space of consciousness, where he learned and practiced Durant's shooting technique. He felt as if he had been in that space for an eternity, perfecting every nuance of Durant's shooting technique. The learning module had been rigorous, requiring him to reach 90% proficiency before he could leave. Fortunately, the consciousness space had no sense of fatigue or time, allowing Wang Chong to hone his skills tirelessly.

When he finally emerged from the consciousness space, Wang Chong felt disoriented for a moment. The vibrant scene around him, filled with jubilant Marquette players, seemed distant and almost surreal. However, the familiar reality of victory quickly reasserted itself, bringing Wang Chong back to the present.

As the team manager began to gather the players and suggest they return to rest, Wade found a moment to sit next to Wang Chong, a contemplative look on his face. Despite the joy of victory, Wade's mind was already set on the future.

"I never thought we could win the championship. Thank you, Wang. Without you, we wouldn't be here now," Wade said, his voice sincere and full of gratitude. He patted Wang Chong on the back, which showed his respect for his teammate.

Wang Chong shrugged his shoulders modestly and said, "This is the result of everyone's joint effort. Without your leadership, we would not have reached this position."

Wade nodded, appreciating Wang Chong's humility. "I'm ready to declare for the NBA Draft this year and start my professional career," Wade said, with a mixture of excitement and nostalgia in his voice. "After I'm gone, you'll be the ace of Marquette University. I think you have what it takes to lead the team and defend the title next season."

The weight of Wade's words was significant. Wade had been the cornerstone of the team and his support meant a lot. But just as Wade was about to lose himself in his thoughts about the future, Wang Chong threw him a curveball that surprised him.

"I'm afraid I won't be able to make it," Wang Chong said, shaking his head sadly. "I plan to apply for the draft this year too."

Wade's eyes widened in surprise. "What, are you going to enter the draft this year?"

It wasn't a total surprise that Wang Chong had NBA aspirations, but the speed with which he acted was unexpected. It was common knowledge on the team that NBA dreams were common, but Wang Chong's enthusiasm to enter the draft in his first year was something Wade had not anticipated.

"Wang, I personally don't recommend you rush into the draft," Wade advised him earnestly, his concern evident. "First of all, your grades are fairly new. Despite your impressive performance in the NCAA Finals, NBA scouts still don't know you well enough. This could significantly affect your draft position."

Wade paused and then continued, "Secondly, this year is loaded with top-tier talent. Carmelo Anthony, LeBron James...these guys are generational talents. With such high-profile prospects in the draft, it's going to be hard for anyone, including you, to stand out."

Wade's arguments were valid. The NBA draft was a high-stakes event and being selected as a first-round pick had far-reaching implications for a player's career. The financial and career opportunities for a first-round pick were unparalleled compared to a second-round selection.

"You're still young," Wade said, in a tone more encouraging than discouraging. "You could wait another year, develop more and position yourself for a much better spot in the next draft. With your skills, you could be one of the top picks next year."

Wang Chong listened carefully to Wade's advice and weighed his thoughts. It was clear that Wade had what was best for him in mind. However, Wang Chong had his own reasons for wanting to participate in the draft this year. The system's missions had been relentless and new tasks had arisen even after the NCAA championship. Wang Chong felt the urgency to move forward, to take advantage of the momentum and rewards that had been bestowed upon him.

"I understand your concerns, Wade," Wang Chong said thoughtfully. "But my situation is a little different." 

Wade looked at Wang Chong with a mixture of admiration and concern. "You are a unique case, Wang. Your determination. If you are determined to give it your all this year, I will support your decision. Just make sure you are fully prepared for what lies ahead."

The conversation between the two was interrupted when the team manager called everyone's attention. It was time to leave the locker room and head back, but the atmosphere had changed a bit. Wade's support for Wang Chong was clear and Wang Chong's determination to pursue his dreams was evident.

As Wang Chong left the locker room, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. The weight of the decision to participate in the draft was immense, but it was a step he was willing to take. The new shooting skills he had acquired and the lessons learned from his championship run were just the beginning. The road ahead would be challenging, but Wang Chong was ready to tackle it.

The next few months would be crucial. Wang Chong knew the road to the NBA was fraught with obstacles and uncertainties, but he was determined to travel it with the same intensity and focus that had driven him throughout his college career.

The road to the NBA draft was not only about proving talent, but also about proving himself in a highly competitive environment. Wang Chong was aware of the challenges, but he was confident that his recent improvements and the rewards of the system would give him an edge.

As he prepared to embark on this new chapter, Wang Chong took one last look at his teammates, his friends and the place where he had forged so many memories. The journey ahead would take him far away from Marquette University, but the lessons, experiences and bonds he had formed would remain with him as he took his next steps toward the NBA.

One review and I'll upload two chapters if not see you tomorrow. 

End of this chapter

Note: If I see good support I will upload more chapters whether they be collections, reviews or stones.