Four games.
That's how long Jackie Young sat on the sidelines, ankle wrapped, her heart aching to be back on the floor. Every night she showed up, dressed in sweats, clipboard in hand, clapping until her hands stung and yelling out coverages like an extra coach.
But watching wasn't playing.
The night of her return, the locker room was buzzing. Jackie sat on the bench, lacing her shoes tighter than usual, nerves and excitement running through her veins.
A'ja Wilson dropped down next to her, nudging her shoulder. "You look like you're about to take a final exam."
Jackie chuckled softly. "Feels like it. What if I'm rusty?"
A'ja gave her the look — the one that was equal parts big sister, captain, and best friend. "Rusty? Girl, you've been dying to play. You've been yelling at us from the sideline like Pat Riley. Trust me, you're fine. And even if you miss your first three shots, I'm still feeding you the ball 'til you hit. That's what we do."
Jackie's lips curved into a smile. "You always got my back."
"Always," A'ja said without hesitation.
When game time came, the crowd roared as Jackie's name was announced. She jogged out, testing her ankle, and felt the adrenaline wash over her. First possession, she caught a pass from Chelsea Gray, pulled up from midrange — swish. The arena erupted.
On the next trip down, A'ja slapped her on the back. "See? Told you. You're home."
As the game wore on, Jackie's confidence grew. She attacked the rim, hit open jumpers, and picked up steals. Every play she made, the bench jumped to their feet, but none louder than A'ja, who practically lost her voice cheering.
The Aces fed off it, storming to a double-digit win. When the buzzer sounded, Jackie was mobbed by her teammates, laughter and relief mixing with victory.
Later, in the quiet of the locker room, Jackie leaned back in her chair, exhausted but glowing. A'ja plopped down beside her with a grin.
"Four games without you felt like forever. Don't you ever scare me like that again."
Jackie laughed, shaking her head. "No promises. But it feels good to be back."
A'ja bumped her fist. "Welcome home, Jack. Now let's go win this thing — together."
And just like that, it felt like the Aces were whole again.
