Hoop Crazy (16 page)

“Congratulations, good game,” their player said as he shook my hand.

“You too, good game,” I replied.

“You played great. Hope that doesn't hurt too much,” the next player said, pointing to the scrape on my face.

“Thanks … it's okay.”

I had to hand it to these guys. They weren't just good players, they were also good sports.

“Well guys, we have to go over to the official's table now,” my father said. “That's where you get your trophies.”

“We get trophies?” Ned asked.

“Big trophies,” Kia said.

“I've never won a trophy before … this is great.”

I'd won more than my fair share of trophies over the years, but this one would be special — more special than any of the others.

“I know exactly where I'm putting mine,” Kia said.

“Me too,” Mark said. “How about you Ned?”

“I have no idea … I have to think about it.”

“Maybe I can help you come up with a place,” I suggested.

“You can?” Ned asked.

“Sure. We'll look all around your house until we find the right place.”

“Look around my house?” Ned asked.

“You are going to let me look around, aren't you … you know, when I come for my visit. I'm still invited, aren't I?”

“Of course you are … isn't he, Mom?”

“Certainly! We'd love to have Nick come and spend as long as he wants with us!”

“I can go, can't I?” I asked my father.

“That's not a problem. But first things first. Let's go and get your trophies … your championship trophies.”