The courts at Western Michigan University were just a short distance from the picnic area. Derek spotted a court that wasn’t occupied. Dribbling his basketball all the way, he raced over to claim it before anyone else got there.

“Okay, let’s get a look at your game,” said Derek’s dad. “Start by taking some layups.”

“I’ll feed you the ball,” said Mrs. Jeter.

“What do I get to do?” Sharlee asked.

“You get all the rebounds, okay?” said Mr. Jeter.

“Yay!”

Sharlee might have been too short to put the ball through the hoop, but she was determined to be in the game. She was certainly athletic—that much was clear. She already had a feel for dribbling and was fast and agile. Not to mention the fact that she could dance and break boards with one swift kick!

After a few passes at the basket, Mr. Jeter had the boys run the length of the court side by side, passing the ball back and forth between them until one took the layup.

“Now switch it up,” Mr. Jeter told them.

A few more passes, and everyone needed to stop for a drink and a breather. The day was hot—summer hadn’t quite let go yet.

“I notice both of you are way more comfortable coming from your right side and dribbling with your right hand. So I want you to concentrate on your left-hand dribble this week. You’ve got to be able to drive both sides of the basket.”

“I can do that already!” Sharlee said proudly, taking the ball from her father and showing them all how she could dribble with both her hands, not just one.

“Very good, Sharlee,” said Mrs. Jeter, and they all applauded.

“Daddy, pick me up so I can shoot it!” Mr. Jeter did as he was told, and Sharlee basked in a second round of applause.

“Okay, how about a little three-on-two?” said Mr. Jeter. “Me and Dave versus Dot, Derek, and Sharlee.”

Everyone got into the scrimmage. Mr. and Mrs. Jeter guarded each other, allowing Derek and Dave to face off, while Sharlee hung out beneath the basket, ready to scoop up any and all rebounds.

Dave might not have been a good shooter, but he sure could play D. With his long arms outstretched, he made it difficult for Derek to get off a shot—or even make a decent pass. Derek had to work hard to fake him out, so he could get the ball under or over or around those waving arms.

On defense, though, Derek gave as good as he got. He wasn’t as tall as Dave—but he was faster, with quicker reactions, and a good feel for what Dave would try next.