Jayden is a 17-year-old senior and the star of his high school basketball team. Tonight’s game is huge—not just because it’s against a rival school, but because two college scouts are in the stands. For Jayden, this could be the game that lands him a scholarship. As the game goes on, Jayden starts taking more shots than usual. His teammate Malik is open several times, but Jayden keeps the ball, hoping to impress the scouts with big plays. Malik notices. So does the coach, who warns during a timeout, “Don’t forget—we win as a team.” With the score tied and seconds left on the clock, Jayden has the ball again. Malik is wide open under the hoop. Jayden can take the tough shot himself—or pass and trust his teammate.
Jayden is a 17-year-old senior and the star shooting guard on his high school’s varsity basketball team. He’s been playing since he could walk, and now everything seems to be coming together: strong stats, highlight reels, and interest from a few Division I schools. His coach often calls him “the backbone of the team,” and his teammates rely on him—not just to score, but to keep everyone focused and united.
Tonight’s game is a big one. Not just because it’s against their cross-town rivals, but because two college scouts are in the stands, watching. Jayden’s coach gave the usual pep talk before the game: “Play your game. Play for each other.” But Jayden can’t stop thinking about what this game could mean for his future.
As the game heats up, Jayden finds himself at a crossroads. He has a clear shot at the basket—but his teammate, Malik, is wide open under the hoop. Passing would guarantee the points, but taking the shot himself would show the scouts his range and flair. A few possessions later, the same thing happens. And again. Jayden’s averaging more shots than usual. Malik shoots him a glance. Not angry, but confused.
During a timeout, the coach says, “Remember, we win as a team. Keep your heads straight.”
Jayden nods, but inside, he’s torn. Every time he has the ball, he feels the weight of the scouts' eyes on him. What if this is his one shot to stand out? To prove he can be the guy colleges build a program around? But at what cost? If he keeps hogging the ball, they might lose the game—and his teammates might start seeing him as selfish, not a leader.
Back on the court, the score is tight. There are 30 seconds left, and Jayden has the ball. He could drive in for a flashy layup—or dish it to Malik, who’s once again wide open for a safer shot.
The crowd is yelling. The scouts are watching. His teammates are counting on him.
What should Jayden do?