he's too busy being in his Royce bag (lusting after his brother's baby momma) smh needs to lock in
Neighborhood.
Neighborhood.
When has Royce ever lusted after Romeo’s bitch? Straight slander.
Neighborhood.
Neighborhood.
MBB recruiting: Risers and new faces in the rankings update
Syracuse commit Donnie Freeman is one of the top risers in the latest recruiting rankings. Photo by Arthur Jones/Dynasty Sportsnet
Angelo Biancardi
December 22, 2023
With the high school season in full swing and a bevy of games and events since our last rankings update in August, we're updating our winter rankings today across all three classes. One thing is clear: The future of high school basketball talent is the brightest it's been in years.
Excellent star power has emerged at the top of a 2024 senior class that has plenty of productive players with potential throughout the ESPN 100. College coaches and NBA scouts are excited about the level of gifted players coming up the ranks.
The gap closed on Duke commit Cooper Flagg at the top of the 2024 class, but he retains the No. 1 spot because he brings too much to the game in terms of versatility. Flagg makes winning and competitiveness a priority, impacts the game on both ends and has the rare ability to elevate his teammates. He needs to play lower in his stance defensively and smooth out his long-distance shot, but his work habits suggest it's only a matter of time before he makes those improvements.
Airious "Ace" Bailey (2024 No. 2) has blossomed into the player we thought he could become this year. He still needs more consistency, but he has special bounce and length. His scoring prowess, rebounding rate and potential as a switchable defender is an attractive combination. Fellow Rutgers commit Dylan Harper (2024 No. 3) has been highly effective this season as well and is skilled, smart and has a college-ready frame.
Baylor recruit V.J. Edgecombe (2024 No. 4) has made huge progress in the past year as well. He's an explosive athlete with scoring and playmaking skills who is exciting to watch. Texas commit Tre Johnson (2024 No. 5) rounds out the top five, displaying a scoring package that includes the ability to make difficult shots and the footwork to create room for his consistent step-back jumper.
It's a special group of talented young men with the focus and intensity necessary to achieve greatness. They've all shown to be five-star teammates as well. They are setting the example for future generations of what it means to have a team-oriented approach with all-out effort. There are impact players beyond the top players in the class as well.
These are players who have risen the rankings or are entering them for the first time in our second to last player ranking update of the 2024 class this season -- the final rankings land in April.
Risers
PF Donnie Freeman (2024)
IMG Academy (Florida) | 6-foot-9, 205 pounds | Syracuse commit
Freeman had a good summer and made a big jump this fall in his play and productivity. All the various aspects of his game are coming together as he has speed, vertical bounce and a long, athletic frame. Freeman also displays touch and developing footwork on offense. He is averaging 22 points and 7.6 rebounds per game while shooting 50% overall. Syracuse has been enormously successful with players of similar profile and talent in the past. Freeman's consistency and burgeoning impact for IMG has been notable this year.
PG Robert Wright III (2024)
Montverde Academy (Florida) | 6-0, 170 pounds | Baylor
Wright has embraced the challenge and responsibility associated with being the point guard for the No. 1 team in the country and excelled in his role. He is wired to set up his teammates and run the show. Flagg called him Montverde's best on-ball defender and, on the other end, he makes defenses that forget about him pay in a big way. He might be Montverde's most important player. Scott Drew can trust him as a freshman next season at Baylor.
PG Trent Perry (2024)
Harvard-Westlake (California) | 6-2, 180 pounds | USC
Perry continues to lead Harvard-Westlake, who is ranked inside the ESPN top 25 poll, and makes his presence felt as a senior. Perry shows the basketball IQ to be a leader and understands how to run a team on offense while also being a vocal defender. He has the speed and vision to run a fast break as he sees everything and everyone with his passing vision. Perry is a pure point guard who thinks of others and still can score with his open 3-point jumper. He is expected to replace Isaiah Collier next season at USC.
Additions
SG Gicarri Harris (2024)
Grayson (Georgia) | 6-4, 180 pounds | Purdue
Harris is one of the more fundamentally sound players in the 2024 class and puts a stamp on every game. He's a triple-threat prospect at guard with toughness, IQ and a college-ready frame. He's a committed defender who plays hard and to win. His ability to continuously work and improve propelled him into the rankings. Harris will earn time as a freshman at Purdue.
SG Eric Freeny (2024)
Centennial (California) | 6-4, 185 pounds | UCLA
Freeny makes tough, winning plays. He had a monster performance at the 2024 Spalding Hoophall Classic, recording 34 points, 10 rebounds, four assists and two steals. He doesn't regularly post big numbers, but he always competes. Freeny can score, rebound, defend and has playmaking ability as the type of player coaches want on their team because he does the hard things well. Freeny will work his way onto the court in Year 1 at UCLA.
F Keshawn Chase (2024)
Hamilton (California) | 6-7, 185 pounds | Uncommitted
Chase arrived at Hamilton via Thornwood Academy and has impressed with his elite physical presence which he utilizes on both ends of the floor to score, defend and rebound. A relatively unknown prospect this time last year, Chase is developing into a versatile forward who is a potential highlight type finisher at the rim on lobs. Chase's next step is filling out his body, getting stronger to be able to handle the physicality of the game against tougher competition and fine tuning his game. Right now, Pepperdine, Santa Clara and Loyola-Marymount are deep in the mix for the newly ranked three-star with Howard and Texas Southern also figuring to be involved in his recruitment.
Last edited by Soapy on 24 Jan 2025, 21:11, edited 1 time in total.
Neighborhood.
Big Fish Theory - Episode 6
“It’s really more like thirty if you don’t have a car,” Jalen explained, pointing towards the bus station that was across the street from they were standing, “This is not even a sales pitch or nothing but you can typically find someone to take you. Like I said, we got guys from Canada, Africa and that’s just on the team. By your third week, you’d probably meet someone from everywhere so its definitely tight nit, not one of those teams where everybody just stick to their own routine.”
Keshawn nodded along, the dynamic explained both appealing and worrisome. It’d be great if he fitted in right away but if he didn’t, it’d just make him stick out even more. Vic and Angela trailed behind them as Keshawn’s assigned tour guide continued to lead them throughout Howard’s campus, literally and figuratively giving Keshawn some space to process it all in.
“I hope they take us some place nice for dinner,” Vic mentioned to Angela, trying to strike up conversation.
“You weren’t feeling their lunch?” she retorted, “I thought it was pretty cool.”
“I ain’t come out here for cafeteria food,” Vic joked, “There are dining halls at LPU, they need to show out or something. This shit has been boring as fuck.”
“It’s a visit, not a party,” she scoffed, “It’s a pretty important decision, you of all people should know that.”
“I do,” Vic opted to ignore the potential dig, “Which is why I know that if they don’t turn it up at some point, he definitely ain’t coming here.”
“None of the other schools cashed out for extra visitors,” Angela contested, “They clearly care about Keshawn and really want him to come here. Ain’t that what you said was important?”
“Yeah, but not really,” Vic continued, “Don’t get me wrong, I checked their roster and they have a couple of high-major bounce backs but it’s a reason they wouldn’t mind the whole Chase and Singleton family come on a visit with him. He’d be their best player, from the first day.”
“And that’s a bad thing?”
“He’s not ready for that,” Vic shook his head, “He needs to come into a system that’s going to let him focus on just playing defense, rebounding, playing ball the right way and then by his second, third year, then you give him the keys. Being the best motherfucker on a sorry ass team ain’t never helped nobody. Trust me, I know.”
“That’s pretty much it,” Jalen slowed his pace to allow Vic and Angela to catch up, “Y’all want to go back in, meet up with your mom and sister or you hanging with the guys? They’re going to have dinner with the coaches and stuff but some recruits like to hang out with us and have breakfast with the coaches instead. It’s up to you, really.”
“He’s hanging with the guys,” Vic answered for him, throwing his arm around Keshawn and flashing a smile, “Ain’t that right, Ke?”
…
“I thought it was nice,” Loraine remarked, drawing circles with her finger around the rim of the wine glass, “Better than nice, actually. Academic wise, I think it’d be a bit of an adjustment after being at Hamilton for the past two years. Not that there’s anything wrong with Hamilton…”
“There’s a lot wrong with Hamilton, you don’t have to be polite,” Angela laughed, taking another sip from her sparkling water, “That’s why it’s so great that Keshawn is as involved as he is with Black Excellence and the community.”
“I don’t know if he’d even be considering Howard if it wasn’t for his time with you guys so you have my heart,” Loraine smiled, “Did you ever look at them, Momo?”
“Not Howard specifically,” Simone answered as the foursome enjoyed the quiet bar lobby of their downtown hotel, “I always just looked at it as more of a southern thing, culturally, and that was never much my vibe at the time.”
With the long day behind them, they had retreated back to their hotel, opting to decompress in the hotel lobby bar while they awaited for Keshawn to be dropped off. They had went out for dinner with the coaching staff, listening to another hour long recruiting pitch while Keshawn got to experience his prospective nightlife with his teammates. His absence only turned the dial up on their recruiting efforts, seizing on the opportunity to apply the full court pressure on his family and friends, which for some recruits were even more important than the recruit themselves.
“I didn’t even know about Charles Davis,” Loraine looked towards Angela, “I’m also embarrassed to say that.”
“Charles Drew,” she politely corrected her, “But yeah, I didn’t either until COVID and I was watching all these reruns of the old school shows like In Living Color, Martin…”
“God, I feel old,” Loraine laughed.
“Sorry,” Angela snorted, “But yeah, I just fell in love with the idea of going to an HBCU and once I saw there was one in the city, I knew I wanted to go there.”
“You’re not considering Howard? At all?” Loraine prodded, “Child, after today, they got even me thinking about going.”
“One of my classmates is going but nope,” she looked towards Vic, looking for a comfort that wasn’t there, “I know a lot of people want to leave LA but I’m not one of them. I’m not saying I’d never leave but it’d take a lot.”
“Worried about being home sick?” Simone asked, “I’ve definitely dealt with a few bouts myself and I’m down the road.”
“Not exactly,” Angela let out dry laugh as she thought about her home life, “I just love being from here and if I ever make something of myself, I definitely want to do it here and for the city.”
“I’d get out soon as I can,” Vic scoffed, “I don’t owe this city nothing. It ain’t done nothing for me.”
…
The bass thumped through the floorboards as Keshawn stepped into the dimly lit frat house. The living room was sparsely populated, with a few clusters of people engaged in hushed conversations. Jaren led the way, nodding to a few familiar faces as they navigated through the space. He thought back to the raucous party at Texas Southern, where the energy had been electric from the moment he walked in.
As they made their way to the kitchen, Keshawn couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging wash over him. As much fun as he had in Houston, this was more of his speed and unlike Pepperdine or Loyola, the faces around him reflected his own
In the kitchen, a petite girl with box braids cascading down her back was manning the punch bowl. She flashed a brilliant smile as Jaren approached.
"Yo, Janel! Hook us up with some of that magic juice," Jaren called out.
Janel laughed, her eyes twinkling mischievously. "Just don’t have him throwing up all over the house like the last one."
Keshawn raised an eyebrow, both amused and intrigued by the exchange. Jaren laughed, passing the cup of said magic juice to Keshawn.
"Gotta get you right," Jaren cackled as Keshawn brought the cup up to his nose, recoiling due to its pungency.
“What the fuck is in this?” Keshawn asked, holding the cup away from him.
“Now if I told you, it wouldn’t be magic, would it?” Jaren shook his head, “Besides, I ain’t a Que, they’d jump my ass if I knew, let alone told another nigga about it.”
“You’re not?”
“Nah,” Jaren guided him back into the house, “That’s why for this next part, you’re on your own, big dawg.”
“The fuck you mean?”
Before Keshawn could take in what was happening, one of the Omegas, a tall, muscular man with intricate gold designs shaved into his fade, stepped forward. His presence commanded attention, and Keshawn felt a mix of confusion and trepidation.
"You must be the nigga everyone talking about," the Omega said, his deep voice barely audible over the pulsing music. He extended a hand, adorned with a massive gold ring bearing the Omega Psi Phi crest. “Come with me, young blood. We've got something special lined up for you."
Keshawn hesitated for a moment, glancing back at Jaren, who had already melted into the crowd. With a deep breath, he followed him towards the stairs. As they ascended, the bass from the music below reverberated through the wooden steps, each vibration amplifying Keshawn's nervousness.
With each step, Keshawn couldn't shake the feeling of unease as they reached the second floor. The hallway was dimly lit, with closed doors lining both sides. He led him to the end of the corridor, pausing in front of the last door on the right.
"Courtesy of Omega Psi Phi," he said, his hand on the doorknob, "and a little assistance from our sisters at Delta Sigma Theta."
Before Keshawn could respond, the door was swung open. The room was bathed in a soft, warm glow from strategically placed lamps. Keshawn's eyes widened as he took in the sight before him. Scattered around the room were several stunningly beautiful women, all wearing various styles of lingerie in crimson and cream – the colors of the sorority they were pledging.
The women lounged on plush sofas and chairs, their eyes fixed on Keshawn as he stood frozen in the doorway. One of them, a statuesque beauty with flawless dark skin and a dazzling smile, rose and sauntered towards him.
"Welcome to Howard, Keshawn," she purred, her voice like honey. "We've been waiting for you."
“It’s really more like thirty if you don’t have a car,” Jalen explained, pointing towards the bus station that was across the street from they were standing, “This is not even a sales pitch or nothing but you can typically find someone to take you. Like I said, we got guys from Canada, Africa and that’s just on the team. By your third week, you’d probably meet someone from everywhere so its definitely tight nit, not one of those teams where everybody just stick to their own routine.”
Keshawn nodded along, the dynamic explained both appealing and worrisome. It’d be great if he fitted in right away but if he didn’t, it’d just make him stick out even more. Vic and Angela trailed behind them as Keshawn’s assigned tour guide continued to lead them throughout Howard’s campus, literally and figuratively giving Keshawn some space to process it all in.
“I hope they take us some place nice for dinner,” Vic mentioned to Angela, trying to strike up conversation.
“You weren’t feeling their lunch?” she retorted, “I thought it was pretty cool.”
“I ain’t come out here for cafeteria food,” Vic joked, “There are dining halls at LPU, they need to show out or something. This shit has been boring as fuck.”
“It’s a visit, not a party,” she scoffed, “It’s a pretty important decision, you of all people should know that.”
“I do,” Vic opted to ignore the potential dig, “Which is why I know that if they don’t turn it up at some point, he definitely ain’t coming here.”
“None of the other schools cashed out for extra visitors,” Angela contested, “They clearly care about Keshawn and really want him to come here. Ain’t that what you said was important?”
“Yeah, but not really,” Vic continued, “Don’t get me wrong, I checked their roster and they have a couple of high-major bounce backs but it’s a reason they wouldn’t mind the whole Chase and Singleton family come on a visit with him. He’d be their best player, from the first day.”
“And that’s a bad thing?”
“He’s not ready for that,” Vic shook his head, “He needs to come into a system that’s going to let him focus on just playing defense, rebounding, playing ball the right way and then by his second, third year, then you give him the keys. Being the best motherfucker on a sorry ass team ain’t never helped nobody. Trust me, I know.”
“That’s pretty much it,” Jalen slowed his pace to allow Vic and Angela to catch up, “Y’all want to go back in, meet up with your mom and sister or you hanging with the guys? They’re going to have dinner with the coaches and stuff but some recruits like to hang out with us and have breakfast with the coaches instead. It’s up to you, really.”
“He’s hanging with the guys,” Vic answered for him, throwing his arm around Keshawn and flashing a smile, “Ain’t that right, Ke?”
…
“I thought it was nice,” Loraine remarked, drawing circles with her finger around the rim of the wine glass, “Better than nice, actually. Academic wise, I think it’d be a bit of an adjustment after being at Hamilton for the past two years. Not that there’s anything wrong with Hamilton…”
“There’s a lot wrong with Hamilton, you don’t have to be polite,” Angela laughed, taking another sip from her sparkling water, “That’s why it’s so great that Keshawn is as involved as he is with Black Excellence and the community.”
“I don’t know if he’d even be considering Howard if it wasn’t for his time with you guys so you have my heart,” Loraine smiled, “Did you ever look at them, Momo?”
“Not Howard specifically,” Simone answered as the foursome enjoyed the quiet bar lobby of their downtown hotel, “I always just looked at it as more of a southern thing, culturally, and that was never much my vibe at the time.”
With the long day behind them, they had retreated back to their hotel, opting to decompress in the hotel lobby bar while they awaited for Keshawn to be dropped off. They had went out for dinner with the coaching staff, listening to another hour long recruiting pitch while Keshawn got to experience his prospective nightlife with his teammates. His absence only turned the dial up on their recruiting efforts, seizing on the opportunity to apply the full court pressure on his family and friends, which for some recruits were even more important than the recruit themselves.
“I didn’t even know about Charles Davis,” Loraine looked towards Angela, “I’m also embarrassed to say that.”
“Charles Drew,” she politely corrected her, “But yeah, I didn’t either until COVID and I was watching all these reruns of the old school shows like In Living Color, Martin…”
“God, I feel old,” Loraine laughed.
“Sorry,” Angela snorted, “But yeah, I just fell in love with the idea of going to an HBCU and once I saw there was one in the city, I knew I wanted to go there.”
“You’re not considering Howard? At all?” Loraine prodded, “Child, after today, they got even me thinking about going.”
“One of my classmates is going but nope,” she looked towards Vic, looking for a comfort that wasn’t there, “I know a lot of people want to leave LA but I’m not one of them. I’m not saying I’d never leave but it’d take a lot.”
“Worried about being home sick?” Simone asked, “I’ve definitely dealt with a few bouts myself and I’m down the road.”
“Not exactly,” Angela let out dry laugh as she thought about her home life, “I just love being from here and if I ever make something of myself, I definitely want to do it here and for the city.”
“I’d get out soon as I can,” Vic scoffed, “I don’t owe this city nothing. It ain’t done nothing for me.”
…
The bass thumped through the floorboards as Keshawn stepped into the dimly lit frat house. The living room was sparsely populated, with a few clusters of people engaged in hushed conversations. Jaren led the way, nodding to a few familiar faces as they navigated through the space. He thought back to the raucous party at Texas Southern, where the energy had been electric from the moment he walked in.
As they made their way to the kitchen, Keshawn couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging wash over him. As much fun as he had in Houston, this was more of his speed and unlike Pepperdine or Loyola, the faces around him reflected his own
In the kitchen, a petite girl with box braids cascading down her back was manning the punch bowl. She flashed a brilliant smile as Jaren approached.
"Yo, Janel! Hook us up with some of that magic juice," Jaren called out.
Janel laughed, her eyes twinkling mischievously. "Just don’t have him throwing up all over the house like the last one."
Keshawn raised an eyebrow, both amused and intrigued by the exchange. Jaren laughed, passing the cup of said magic juice to Keshawn.
"Gotta get you right," Jaren cackled as Keshawn brought the cup up to his nose, recoiling due to its pungency.
“What the fuck is in this?” Keshawn asked, holding the cup away from him.
“Now if I told you, it wouldn’t be magic, would it?” Jaren shook his head, “Besides, I ain’t a Que, they’d jump my ass if I knew, let alone told another nigga about it.”
“You’re not?”
“Nah,” Jaren guided him back into the house, “That’s why for this next part, you’re on your own, big dawg.”
“The fuck you mean?”
Before Keshawn could take in what was happening, one of the Omegas, a tall, muscular man with intricate gold designs shaved into his fade, stepped forward. His presence commanded attention, and Keshawn felt a mix of confusion and trepidation.
"You must be the nigga everyone talking about," the Omega said, his deep voice barely audible over the pulsing music. He extended a hand, adorned with a massive gold ring bearing the Omega Psi Phi crest. “Come with me, young blood. We've got something special lined up for you."
Keshawn hesitated for a moment, glancing back at Jaren, who had already melted into the crowd. With a deep breath, he followed him towards the stairs. As they ascended, the bass from the music below reverberated through the wooden steps, each vibration amplifying Keshawn's nervousness.
With each step, Keshawn couldn't shake the feeling of unease as they reached the second floor. The hallway was dimly lit, with closed doors lining both sides. He led him to the end of the corridor, pausing in front of the last door on the right.
"Courtesy of Omega Psi Phi," he said, his hand on the doorknob, "and a little assistance from our sisters at Delta Sigma Theta."
Before Keshawn could respond, the door was swung open. The room was bathed in a soft, warm glow from strategically placed lamps. Keshawn's eyes widened as he took in the sight before him. Scattered around the room were several stunningly beautiful women, all wearing various styles of lingerie in crimson and cream – the colors of the sorority they were pledging.
The women lounged on plush sofas and chairs, their eyes fixed on Keshawn as he stood frozen in the doorway. One of them, a statuesque beauty with flawless dark skin and a dazzling smile, rose and sauntered towards him.
"Welcome to Howard, Keshawn," she purred, her voice like honey. "We've been waiting for you."
-
chosenone58
- Posts: 4532
- Joined: 28 Nov 2018, 19:06
Neighborhood.
Starting the catch up....those summertime episodes?? SHEEEESH!
Loraine is something else. Fresh out of jail for scamming and still talking down on her sister and brother.
Keshawn is just letting his nuts drop for real. He getting into all kinds of shit out here. Summer too hot out in L.A.
I'll get into Big Fish Theory this weekend
Loraine is something else. Fresh out of jail for scamming and still talking down on her sister and brother.
Keshawn is just letting his nuts drop for real. He getting into all kinds of shit out here. Summer too hot out in L.A.
I'll get into Big Fish Theory this weekend
Creator of Derek Baldwin da Gawd
Neighborhood.
I definitely had fun writing Summertime '06, probably my favorite chapter that I have written/plotted outchosenone58 wrote: ↑24 Jan 2025, 00:31Starting the catch up....those summertime episodes?? SHEEEESH!
Loraine is something else. Fresh out of jail for scamming and still talking down on her sister and brother.
Keshawn is just letting his nuts drop for real. He getting into all kinds of shit out here. Summer too hot out in L.A.
I'll get into Big Fish Theory this weekend
RE: Loraine, you know how those types be, I guess prison wasn't enough to humble her
Keshawn coming into his own, we'll see how he handles being the big fish now
Neighborhood.
Big Fish Theory - Episode 7
Keshawn had gotten used to the process, the fearfulness and anxiety inside him now replaced by disinterest and boredom as he went through the metal detectors. It was nothing against his father and in theory, he loved visiting him but the monotonous nature of their visit had grown tired. He’d ask how he was doing, how was school, how was basketball, teased him about his girlfriends — or apparent lack thereof before shifting his focus to Loraine, making sure she was okay. Not that there was anything Elijah could do about it. The conversation would conveniently drift into lawyer talks and discussing his potential earlier release.
“What’s that I’m hearing about Texas Southern?” Elijah snapped his finger in Keshawn’s face to get his attention, “I thought Berkeley was looking at you.”
“They are,” Keshawn explained, taking his gaze off the voluptuous correctional officer who wore her uniform a size too small for her, “They haven’t offered officially or anything so I’m just keeping an open mind.”
“You can shut the door on Texas Southern,” Elijah scoffed, “Might as well burn your degree while you’re at it.”
“Howard was nice,” Loraine chimed in, trying to lighten the mood, “I think Keshawn would do really well there.”
“It’s better than Texas Southern,” Elijah was unrelenting, “If I knew you wanted to go to Texas Southern, wouldn’t have spent all that money at Thornwood.”
“I don’t know if you heard but I’m not at Thornwood anymore,” Keshawn fired back, “I know news can travel slow in there.”
“Excuse me, boy?”
“Come on, now,” Loraine interjected once more, “Tell your father about the trip to D.C.”
“I don’t care how tall you get,” Elijah ignored her best attempts to keep things cordial, “You gonna show me some respect, little boy. This is what you’re allowing now, Loraine, in my house?”
“We don’t live in your house anymore,” Keshawn scoffed, looking his father in the eye, “She got us that apartment, by herself, working her ass off while you’re in here not doing shit for us.”
“Keshawn,” Loraine said through closed teeth, trying not to draw the attention of the nearby guards as she placed her hand on her son’s arm to calm him down, “You know better.”
“Nah, fuck that,” Keshawn sucked his teeth, “He’s always acting like it’s his world and we’re just living in it but don’t ever take responsibility for putting us here. How many of my games did you come to? You don’t remember telling me that sports was a waste of time? Now you want to decide where I play? Get the fuck out of here with that bullshit.”
“It’s okay,” Elijah held a finger to his wife before addressing Keshawn, “He’s emotional, I get it. He’s got every right to be so I’m going to let it slide this one time, and this time only, understand? You are right, sports is a waste of time. You won’t be able to run or jump forever which is why its so important you go to a school that’s going to set you up for the next forty years, not the next four.”
…
Gayle tucked her handbag under her arm as she was suddenly aware of the Chanel imprint on Aida and Shawna’s as they went up the steps. Aida rang the Ring doorbell, taking a step back to let the camera get a good look of her face and body. Shawna played up to the audience as well, adjusting her cleavage in a teasing manner. Gayla remained in the back, pulling at the hem of her leather skirt.
The door opened and they were greeted by a towering security guard who quicky ruffled through their bags before ushering them in, the high ceilings instantly grabbing Gayle’s attention. It was an open floor plan with a clear view to the backyard that overlooked the city, high up in the hills. The party was in full swing as people were coming in and out of the backyard, drinks in hand and pills under their tongues for others.
Gayle's eyes darted nervously around the room, taking in the surroundings and the sea of unfamiliar faces. Aida and Shawna had already melted into the crowd, their laughter ringing out as they perched on the laps of men old enough to be her father. Gayle watched as Aida leaned in close to whisper something in a balding man's ear, his hand creeping up her thigh as she did so. Shawna was busy showing off her dance moves to a group of admiring onlookers, her body moving sinuously to the rhythm.
Gayle felt a flush creep up her neck as she realized how out of place she was. Her usual confidence had evaporated the moment she stepped through the door. She tugged at her skirt again, suddenly feeling exposed despite being more covered than most of the women around her.
A waiter glided by with a tray of champagne flutes, and Gayle gratefully snagged one, hoping the bubbly liquid might calm her nerves. She sipped it slowly, the taste for it not yet acquired.
…
Keshawn paced his room, the floorboards creaking under his weight. His phone screen flickered with unanswered messages, each one more desperate than the last. "Hey, you free tonight?" "Wanna hang?" "You working or something?" The blue bubbles mocked him, devoid of those three little dots that would indicate a response was coming.
He flopped onto his bed, the springs groaning in protest. The ceiling fan spun lazily above him, its rhythmic whirring a stark contrast to the tumult in his mind. His father's words from earlier that day echoed in his ears, a constant, grating reminder of their confrontation, the first of its kind.
"You can shut the door on Texas Southern," his father had said, the disdain dripping from every syllable. Keshawn's fists clenched involuntarily at the memory, his nails digging crescents into his palms.
He sat up abruptly, grabbing his phone once more. With quick, angry taps, he opened Twitter, his thumbs flying across the keyboard as he composed a new tweet.
"Big news coming soon. My recruitment is down to Texas Southern and Howard. Who's gonna make that
graphic for ya boy? #DecisionTime #HBCU"
…
The neon lights of the city flickered in the distance, a kaleidoscope of colors against the inky black sky. Aida, Shawna, and Gayle huddled together on the curb, their heels discarded beside them as they waited for their Ubers. The night air was thick with the pungent smell of marijuana as Aida took another long drag from her blunt, the ember glowing bright orange in the darkness.
Gayle sat with her knees pulled up to her chest, her arms wrapped tightly around them. Her eyes were distant, unfocused, as she stared at the passing cars.
Aida glanced over at Gayle, taking in her dejected posture and downcast eyes. She passed the blunt to Shawna before scooting closer to Gayle, bumping her shoulder playfully.
"Look here, Bambi," Aida said, her voice low and smoky. "You looking like a sad ass hoe out here.”
Gayle scoffed, trying to rebuild the facade that was fading away in the presence of seasoned operators. "Ain’t nobody sad, I just…y’all really gassed this shit up like it was going to be some next level shit.”
Aida chuckled, shaking her head. "Girl, this ain’t the club where your little pretty ass can just serve some pineapple juice and they gonna stuff some money in your pockets. You gotta go out and get that shit out here.”
Shawna nodded in agreement, exhaling a cloud of smoke. "For real. You can't be sitting in the corner all night, expecting somebody to throw a bag at you."
"Y’all said it was easy money and we ain’t had to do nothing," Gayle protested weakly, but Aida cut her off with a wave of her hand.
"Listen up, and I’m only schooling you because we halfway fuck with you," Aida said, her tone serious despite the slight slur in her words. "In this world, you're either a shark or you're a fish. And right now, baby, you're actin' like a fish just waiting to get swallowed up. Shawna, how much money you made tonight?"
“At least a couple hundred,” she boasted proudly, “You know Royce and them love to trick.”
“How many dicks you sucked?”
“Not one,” she laughed, “Them niggas just wanna think they can fuck you.”
Aida took the blunt back from Shawna, taking a long drag before continuing. "You see? You gotta start being a shark. You gotta hunt for what you want, not just sit back and hope it comes to you. You see a man you like? Go talk to him. You want a drink? Don't wait for someone to offer, go get it yourself. You want to dance? Get your ass on that dance floor and show 'em what you got."
Keshawn had gotten used to the process, the fearfulness and anxiety inside him now replaced by disinterest and boredom as he went through the metal detectors. It was nothing against his father and in theory, he loved visiting him but the monotonous nature of their visit had grown tired. He’d ask how he was doing, how was school, how was basketball, teased him about his girlfriends — or apparent lack thereof before shifting his focus to Loraine, making sure she was okay. Not that there was anything Elijah could do about it. The conversation would conveniently drift into lawyer talks and discussing his potential earlier release.
“What’s that I’m hearing about Texas Southern?” Elijah snapped his finger in Keshawn’s face to get his attention, “I thought Berkeley was looking at you.”
“They are,” Keshawn explained, taking his gaze off the voluptuous correctional officer who wore her uniform a size too small for her, “They haven’t offered officially or anything so I’m just keeping an open mind.”
“You can shut the door on Texas Southern,” Elijah scoffed, “Might as well burn your degree while you’re at it.”
“Howard was nice,” Loraine chimed in, trying to lighten the mood, “I think Keshawn would do really well there.”
“It’s better than Texas Southern,” Elijah was unrelenting, “If I knew you wanted to go to Texas Southern, wouldn’t have spent all that money at Thornwood.”
“I don’t know if you heard but I’m not at Thornwood anymore,” Keshawn fired back, “I know news can travel slow in there.”
“Excuse me, boy?”
“Come on, now,” Loraine interjected once more, “Tell your father about the trip to D.C.”
“I don’t care how tall you get,” Elijah ignored her best attempts to keep things cordial, “You gonna show me some respect, little boy. This is what you’re allowing now, Loraine, in my house?”
“We don’t live in your house anymore,” Keshawn scoffed, looking his father in the eye, “She got us that apartment, by herself, working her ass off while you’re in here not doing shit for us.”
“Keshawn,” Loraine said through closed teeth, trying not to draw the attention of the nearby guards as she placed her hand on her son’s arm to calm him down, “You know better.”
“Nah, fuck that,” Keshawn sucked his teeth, “He’s always acting like it’s his world and we’re just living in it but don’t ever take responsibility for putting us here. How many of my games did you come to? You don’t remember telling me that sports was a waste of time? Now you want to decide where I play? Get the fuck out of here with that bullshit.”
“It’s okay,” Elijah held a finger to his wife before addressing Keshawn, “He’s emotional, I get it. He’s got every right to be so I’m going to let it slide this one time, and this time only, understand? You are right, sports is a waste of time. You won’t be able to run or jump forever which is why its so important you go to a school that’s going to set you up for the next forty years, not the next four.”
…
Gayle tucked her handbag under her arm as she was suddenly aware of the Chanel imprint on Aida and Shawna’s as they went up the steps. Aida rang the Ring doorbell, taking a step back to let the camera get a good look of her face and body. Shawna played up to the audience as well, adjusting her cleavage in a teasing manner. Gayla remained in the back, pulling at the hem of her leather skirt.
The door opened and they were greeted by a towering security guard who quicky ruffled through their bags before ushering them in, the high ceilings instantly grabbing Gayle’s attention. It was an open floor plan with a clear view to the backyard that overlooked the city, high up in the hills. The party was in full swing as people were coming in and out of the backyard, drinks in hand and pills under their tongues for others.
Gayle's eyes darted nervously around the room, taking in the surroundings and the sea of unfamiliar faces. Aida and Shawna had already melted into the crowd, their laughter ringing out as they perched on the laps of men old enough to be her father. Gayle watched as Aida leaned in close to whisper something in a balding man's ear, his hand creeping up her thigh as she did so. Shawna was busy showing off her dance moves to a group of admiring onlookers, her body moving sinuously to the rhythm.
Gayle felt a flush creep up her neck as she realized how out of place she was. Her usual confidence had evaporated the moment she stepped through the door. She tugged at her skirt again, suddenly feeling exposed despite being more covered than most of the women around her.
A waiter glided by with a tray of champagne flutes, and Gayle gratefully snagged one, hoping the bubbly liquid might calm her nerves. She sipped it slowly, the taste for it not yet acquired.
…
Keshawn paced his room, the floorboards creaking under his weight. His phone screen flickered with unanswered messages, each one more desperate than the last. "Hey, you free tonight?" "Wanna hang?" "You working or something?" The blue bubbles mocked him, devoid of those three little dots that would indicate a response was coming.
He flopped onto his bed, the springs groaning in protest. The ceiling fan spun lazily above him, its rhythmic whirring a stark contrast to the tumult in his mind. His father's words from earlier that day echoed in his ears, a constant, grating reminder of their confrontation, the first of its kind.
"You can shut the door on Texas Southern," his father had said, the disdain dripping from every syllable. Keshawn's fists clenched involuntarily at the memory, his nails digging crescents into his palms.
He sat up abruptly, grabbing his phone once more. With quick, angry taps, he opened Twitter, his thumbs flying across the keyboard as he composed a new tweet.
"Big news coming soon. My recruitment is down to Texas Southern and Howard. Who's gonna make that
graphic for ya boy? #DecisionTime #HBCU"…
The neon lights of the city flickered in the distance, a kaleidoscope of colors against the inky black sky. Aida, Shawna, and Gayle huddled together on the curb, their heels discarded beside them as they waited for their Ubers. The night air was thick with the pungent smell of marijuana as Aida took another long drag from her blunt, the ember glowing bright orange in the darkness.
Gayle sat with her knees pulled up to her chest, her arms wrapped tightly around them. Her eyes were distant, unfocused, as she stared at the passing cars.
Aida glanced over at Gayle, taking in her dejected posture and downcast eyes. She passed the blunt to Shawna before scooting closer to Gayle, bumping her shoulder playfully.
"Look here, Bambi," Aida said, her voice low and smoky. "You looking like a sad ass hoe out here.”
Gayle scoffed, trying to rebuild the facade that was fading away in the presence of seasoned operators. "Ain’t nobody sad, I just…y’all really gassed this shit up like it was going to be some next level shit.”
Aida chuckled, shaking her head. "Girl, this ain’t the club where your little pretty ass can just serve some pineapple juice and they gonna stuff some money in your pockets. You gotta go out and get that shit out here.”
Shawna nodded in agreement, exhaling a cloud of smoke. "For real. You can't be sitting in the corner all night, expecting somebody to throw a bag at you."
"Y’all said it was easy money and we ain’t had to do nothing," Gayle protested weakly, but Aida cut her off with a wave of her hand.
"Listen up, and I’m only schooling you because we halfway fuck with you," Aida said, her tone serious despite the slight slur in her words. "In this world, you're either a shark or you're a fish. And right now, baby, you're actin' like a fish just waiting to get swallowed up. Shawna, how much money you made tonight?"
“At least a couple hundred,” she boasted proudly, “You know Royce and them love to trick.”
“How many dicks you sucked?”
“Not one,” she laughed, “Them niggas just wanna think they can fuck you.”
Aida took the blunt back from Shawna, taking a long drag before continuing. "You see? You gotta start being a shark. You gotta hunt for what you want, not just sit back and hope it comes to you. You see a man you like? Go talk to him. You want a drink? Don't wait for someone to offer, go get it yourself. You want to dance? Get your ass on that dance floor and show 'em what you got."
