Neither the opposing teams nor their basketball skills had changed; they were as talented and fearsome to us as ever. Even though our basketball skills improved dramatically, we were unable to outperform opposing teams on the court and in terms of scoring. We were also not as perfect and technically developed in the game as other teams. What changed, however, was our inner strength and power. We had strengthened ourselves and our friendships to the point that our basketball games were not a battle of talent, but of wills. No matter how tough or great the team we played against, we fought back with our determination and belief in ourselves and others. Even long after we were aching and panting for breath every game, our collective will never wavered. It was really all over