“Let’s hear it for the second-half lineups, starting with your USC Trojans,” the announcer said. “On offense, Ananya Deshmukh and your captain, Jeremy Knox!” He had to pause there as the stadium erupted in cheers. “Starting dealer: Min Cai! On defense, Catalina Alvarez and Jean Moreau!” Jean followed Cat through the doorway as the crowd yelled loud enough to rattle his teeth. In here he could barely hear the announcement for Laila, but he trusted her to be close behind him. He crossed the court to far-fourth and took his starting spot.

