Superball

A screenplay by Glenn William Starkey

Setting: The travels, arena and homes of the St. Louis Saints women's basketball team

Characters (In order of appearance):

(The scene opens. We see a small room somewhere with trophies abounding: college, high school, even biddie ball. We see pictures of a young woman, 5'7"- a little short for basketball, but a legend nonetheless. We see newspaper clippings, press reports, and pictures of a brunette shooter with a timeless smile; quiet, reserved, a leader in and of herself. We scan across the room and see trophies: "Ms. Basketball– state of Missouri-1994, 1995– Cassie McNeal" We see pictures of her college days of her celebrating a conference championship and tournament bid at her small but popular college team in Branson with her teammate Sally Harper, Cassie's arm around her shoulders, the champagne-substitute flowing almost precariously down Cassie's shirt. There's a picture of Cassie going in the first round to the St. Louis Saints of the International Women's Basketball League, of the shining silver and blue uniform already printed with her #4 and her name glittering on the new pattern of the young team…and now we are in the present; we see a young blonde, more beautiful than ever, focused, ready for a new season, a new beginning, a new time…and so it begins)

Billy Starr: Hello everyone, we are here on opening day once again and there is new optimism for the Saints after a disappointing 2003 which left them coming within one shot of their first playoff appearance in their 5-year history. I am Billy Starr, the voice of the Saints. Most of the excitement here today is because of the great new backcourt pairing- they've been calling themselves the bombshell bombers: our own St. Louis Shooter, Cassie McNeal, now paired up with a shooting guard from Iowa, the Filly, Felicia Anderson…

(We are taken to practice, just before the season. We see Filly Anderson, a 5'10" blonde, a beautiful specimen of the female form; her body is seamless and well-built, and she takes every attempt to accentuate her natural features at all times. The entire team is in their royal blue and white practice jerseys and shorts. Filly is doing a one-on-one drill with Cassie. Their coach, Andy Richardson, is watching closely. His white hair comes from having coached legends for 50 years: men, women, college, professionals, Olympians, internationals. He takes his glasses off and adjusts them. He has always been ready to win championships and has a full trophy case to prove it: he is cold, hardened, focused on getting his players to win, no matter what sacrifices it takes.)

Andy: Ok, girls, let's get this going! This is a year we can make something special out of, now let's see some hustle out there.

(Filly and Cassie go one-on-one with crossover dribbles playing a pick-up game to 12. Filly makes the first basket.)

Filly: What's the matter, Cassie, afraid of another blonde taking your spot on the pinup posters?

Cassie (answering back with a basket of her own): Give me a break, kid, without me you don't score garbage, that's why I'm the point guard.

Filly: Oh please, like you'd be anything unless you were playing in your hometown.

Cassie: Like you'd be anything but a pretty face plastered on some guy's bathroom wall in a cheap swimsuit if it wasn't for me.

Andy: C'mon, be together, be a team. That's the difference between us and the New York Warriors of the world, they play as a unit.

Filly: Watch it, coach, I ain't here to suck cunt in the locker room after every game. I'm a real woman, not like those clowns who are so busy screwing each other in the shower they keep screwing each other out of titles on the court.

Andy: Enough of that. I don't like those dykes either, but if you're gonna go after 'em beat 'em on the court not with your mouths. This team is about basketball, and basketball alone, leave the politics to the White House.

(We see Bessie Moore, the pitch black, 240lb round small forward, a beast who's quick on her feet for her size and has a deceptively sweet shot, come in. With her is Chris Van Allen, a 6'3" center, still good-looking for her size and age, with style and blonde hair. She was a free agent pickup, a veteran from the league's inception and well known as the first openly lesbian player in the league. While it is known that a good 40-50% of the players in the league are lesbians, Chris was the first, and so far the only one, to acknowledge it to the media. She has been brought in as the veteran leader for this young team. Pushing 40 {actually she is 40, but don't say that to her face; according to the media guide, she's been 36 for the past 4 seasons} this is most likely her last season; her prime was wasted in international leagues and national team barnstorming with the lack of a major American pro league.)

Bessie: Hey Dorothy, ya ain't in Kansas anymore, bitch!

Filly: It's Felicia, from Iowa, and let's see you back up your potty talk or get to the back of the bus.

Bessie: Hey, moron, we here to win together, if you ain't down with that get the fuck out of here!

Cassie: Easy, guys, this is only preseason- let's not beat ourselves, you can't win a title if you are more worried about going one-on-one with whatever kid you got a problem with.

Bessie: Fine with me. Let's see what this party doll has.

Chris (sarcastically): I've seen all I need to see just staring at her. Yeah, I'm surprised I can stand with some supermodel like her around, ohhhh, man, am I counting the seconds till we hit the showers, hottie.

Filly: Bite me, you couldn't tell a fat queer with no hair from Britney Spears.

Andy: Enough already!

Chris: For once, you're right. Filly, I find you ugly. (Pause) I'm surprised you didn't faint out of sheer relief. Now, if you want to be ready to face New York, let's see you face me.

(Filly springs into action and does a crossover fake then pulls up for a three-pointer, which is easily swatted away by Chris.)

Chris: Hey, not bad, call me back when you learn not to run your mouth then telegraph your moves. See you in practice, rookie!

Andy: Ok, Chris, you proved your point. Now c'mon girls, we have to be a team here. Does SOMEONE know what this is? ANYONE?

(A voice from the back speaks up. It is Tamika Davis, the power forward for the team. She shows her ghetto background in her cornrowed hair, tattoos, and sharply built muscles. She is as black as the night, twice as sleek, and five times as mysterious. She speaks from the street but has a tattoo of the Princeton Tiger inscribed on her left arm. Princeton class of 1998, but yet most think she got in through inflated grades at her substandard high school in south Detroit. She speaks up with a furor that even startles the aged veteran, Chris.)

Tamika: YO, a team is 12 people acting as one person. You may not like New York but look at them, they win together, drink together, ride together even at home…and before our rookie foo says it I'll say it- they sleep together. Ya can call em sinners but ya gotta also call em winners, ya can call em queer but they be da reason we here! Now we in the tougher conference- we got the Hollywood Glamour, we got Houston, but we got what dey don't got, youth and experience rolled into one. Now we no different on that court, we all have stronger strengths than this league but we also have weaker weaknesses. Now yo, we winnin this thang cuz we are better than Hollywood because we play together. Now let's play together and win this conference, because we are young and beautiful, and well, we deserve it. We deserve to finally break through, that's what Filly is here for. Now get down, get ready, Filly, cuz my money's on you in the 2nd to take it all, don't make me a sucker bet!

Andy: Now that we have that out of the way, let's get started with our one-on-one defense.

(The scene fades back to the television, and we see a new commercial for the St. Louis Saints, plugging the upcoming season. All the team are in tight blue jeans and matching white blouses and high heeled shoes; all are spinning basketballs on their fingers with provocative smiles as techno music plays in the background.)

Cassie: C'mon you guys, you know who we are, come out and play with us.

Bessie: We goin alllll…the way this time, don't you know it.

Chris: So come on out, if you dare. I wont let you down.

Tamika: Ya down wit TEAM? Every last ol' man?

Filly: Stick your money down on this filly!

Cassie: For a good time call 1-800-GO-SAINT.

Andy: You know you want 'em, c'mon out and get 'em! They won't let ya down, I guaruntee it!

(We see the team after the commercial sitting with the General Manager, Olivia Bartholomew. A 30-year veteran of the sport, she comes from the days when women played in T-shirts. She sits watching the commercial and smiling in her coal black pantsuit and trimmed hair that still has a tinge of her playing days in the 70's; she has that satisfaction that she finally built the team, the team that will win it all and put the league on the map. She is alone with Cassie, who is in a tan blazer and miniskirt with the same white blouse from the commercial. Cassie looks upset with Olivia.)

Olivia: I don't think the commercial made you look fat at all.

Cassie: It made us look like hookers!

Olivia: It will make you a sold out sensation. Season ticket sales are up 50%. Besides, how can you accuse me of selling the team on sex when I let you put Bessie and Miko in the commercial?

Cassie: We are selling out because they know we have a championship-caliber team, we had a perfect preseason and are the favorites to win the conference- and Bessie and Miko are a big part of that.

Olivia: That gives you 12 dusty moth-eaten old T-shirts, a high school gym with 20 people not named mom or dad, and a dead league in a season, just ask Columbus. No, Cassie, you are a great player. You are the best thing to happen to this sport, and Filly is #2- you are the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.

Cassie: Oh God, either you're drunk, hitting on me, or both.

Olivia: We ain't gay here, remember that, please.

Cassie: YOU not gay? Didn't you leave UNC cuz you liked to shower to get dirty with your lover after games when she was your point guard?

Olivia: Fun times, ahhh yes... the smell of the rotting pine, the echo of the ball in the empty men's arena, the shine of the floor when it hadn't even been wiped down from last nights game- oh, that was fun, the beer was still on the court so if you made enough diving saves you could be wasted by the last 10 minutes. No, I've changed my ways. Oh sure, you can have your Sally when you are at home, or on the road, or in the hotel. But think about it, and I know you do. Basketball is about entertainment. It's about greatness. I know you too well: Aim High, Play Hard, Shoot Straight, Be Blonde. Ahhh, yes, welcome to the big time. You really pack 'em in, you know, sweetie, we owe you one and that's the truth. Ain't that something to be proud of? All the little girls in a row, all the kids wearing #4, all the men chasing after you like they saw a nude of Britney Spears? Yes, you serve this sport well, and, hell, you are one hell of a point guard too. Remember that, kid, and we will go far.

Cassie: I see. I know, I'm alone now, and I'm glad. (sarcastically) By the way, next time, crossover in a miniskirt, yeah!

(We see Cassie riding home on the subway; next to her is a poster of herself doing a crossover in a denim miniskirt selling Saints tickets. It's opening day. She is ready as she takes the floor.)

Billy: We are here for opening day, and we look to have one of the best crowds in team history here today in St. Louis as the Saints take on the Eastern Conference powerhouse New York Warriors in this first match-up of the year. Hello again, I'm Billy Starr and I am joined as always by my partner, Erin Langdon. What do you think of the chances for the Saints this year?

Erin: Well, Billy, this year the Saints added some depth with rookie sensation Felicia Anderson out of Iowa, a great compliment to the St. Louis Shooter Cassie McNeal. They made a curious signing in Chris Van Allen to bolster their post presence as well, but all I gotta say is if they play as good as they've looked, watch out. This will be one great season!

Billy: Indeed, the Saints have pulled out all the stops this year in getting this team front and center, and we will see how they perform…Next!

(The scene focuses on the court, as the game has started. We see Cassie guarding Sally Harper, the shooting guard for NY. Wearing #7, she has the charm of a Midwestern cowgirl, long brown hair and a smile of eternal innocence. Her eyes are always a playful blue, but on the court she attacks her opponents with reckless abandon, hence why Andy has switched off assignments and put his veteran point guard on her.)

Sally: Hey there Cass, long time no see.

(Cassie makes a swipe at the ball, paying no attention to Sally's distraction, but Sally pulls back on her and cans a three to get her attention.)

Sally: Always too quick to go after me and a sucker for the long-distance kiss, weren't you, Cass? (Blows kiss at the basket to the dismay of the home crowd)

Cassie: (taking the ball up on offense) Oh, be quiet, it's my turn now. You be yourself, I'll take my chances here. (Fakes a three and throws a quick pass inside to Chris for an easy lay-up, much to the delight of the crowd.) You still don't see the pass coming, you just stand around and fall for it. No wonder I liked you so much.

(Sally now has the ball, having gotten the outlet pass, and sets up the offense. In her patented move she drives her petite 5'6" frame hard down the lane, almost flying into Chris, and then dishing to the outside. But this time she knocks Cassie hard to the floor, drawing a blocking foul on Cassie. Sally looks down over Cassie, who seems to have been shaken up on the play)

Sally: Hehe, I thought you would recognize me better standing over you with you on your back.

Cassie (wincing in pain): Up yours, Sally. It's over, for the entire second half and the past six months, get over it, bitch.

(Sally gets furious but doesn't do anything to Cassie, instead mouthing something at Chris. Tamika intervenes.)

Tamika: Watch your back, little girl. I don't play little girls who hurt big girls who are better than they are.

Sally: A better shot and goldielocks doesn't make a better girl.

Tamika: Must be Clorox withdrawal. Your roots are showing, hillbilly.

(Sally is restrained by her teammates as the fans rain boos at her while Cassie is helped off the court by Bessie and Filly.)

Andy: What is it, Cassie?

Cassie: Just banged my shoulder pretty bad.

Andy: We got this one wrapped up. Go back to the trainer's room. Don't worry about it, it's early in the year. Take as much time as you need.

(As Cassie leaves the court we hear a standing ovation for her. We now see after the game Cassie leaving the arena before anyone else, trying to sign autographs left-handed because her shooting arm is wrapped in ice after bruising her shoulder during the game. She sees NY getting on the bus back to their hotel. Sally waves at Cassie.)

Cassie: Hey Sal, no hard feelings, I'll be okay.

Sally: No hard feelings, but I'd rather live in the whole house, not just the…

Cassie: Enough about that. Have a good season, I'll see you again.

Sally: Never like you used to, get used to that.

Billy: Well, folks, the word is that Cassie McNeal suffered a bruised shoulder during the 2nd half. It's expected to keep her out at least a week and a half. Luckily for the Saints, this happened early and with an easy part of the schedule ahead.

Erin: Word is, Billy, that she will go to the Arizona rehab center just to make sure that there is nothing more damaged. They'd rather have their leader out longer and back 100% rather than take a chance of a prolonged slump due to a nagging injury.

(We go to the Arizona rehab center. Cassie is just about finished with healing her shoulder and is working out in the gym, doing some running on the treadmill in her blue sports bra and shorts and listening to music. There is a man on a stationary bike behind her, seemingly more interested in the woman running in front of him than his own workout. He is Ted Gruber, a proud Chicago Kid, member of the most storied and unlucky team in baseball. He is wearing a T-shirt with the fabled goat's-head logo and his number 20 on the front. His long brown hair and goatee fit his image as the hard-throwing, straight-firing, but not always on-target young gun pitcher the Kids are counting on to solidify their rotation and make a run.)

Trainer: C'mon, Ted, focus! You've seen prettier blondes on the groupie line, now pedal!

Ted: Nahhh, this girl's different. What's she doing here, anyway? I usually don't see goldielocks in a bear den like this. Not like this is a bad thing at all- you guys should do that more often, in fact.

Trainer: She's some basketball chick, banged up her shoulder. Now c'mon, man, do you want to make your next scheduled start or not?

Ted: Hang on man, I gotta at least get her name. And well, if all basketball chicks had basketballs like that, I might actually watch.

Trainer: All right, but make this quick, the Kids are counting on you. Man, you know how much they hate the Bishops.

(Ted gets off the bike and gets in front of Cassie's treadmill, smiling and trying to get her attention while staring at her figure.)

Ted: Hey there, buy you an energy bar?

(Trainer rolls his eyes as Cassie gets off the treadmill and lowers her headphones.)

Cassie: Hehe, I, umm, play for the other team.

Ted: You're from St. Louis?

(Cassie, despite her feelings, breaks into laughter.)

Cassie: Yeah, you could say that. I play basketball for the Saints, I bet you never heard of them.

Ted: Oh, I have, they got some lookers on that team! That point guard, man! I'd like to be her husband! Whoo!

(Cassie again tries to let this man go without hurting his feelings or sparking homophobia.)

Cassie: Well, what if she was a... you know, lefty.

Ted: I'm a lefty.

(Cassie raises her eyebrows)

Cassie: You? A lefty?

Ted: Always have been, the best young left arm in baseball. Ted Gruber, Chicago Kids. You must've been paying attention just to your own Bishops there in St. Louis. Don't worry, I'll shut 'em out for you, cutie.

(Cassie laughs at this remark, realizing that he doesn't get her hints. Then she smiles coyly at him; she seems to think that he may be useful in his ignorance.)

Cassie: Given that I play Chicago that same day, I'll go off for 30 points on them then. Cassie McNeal, St. Louis Saints, and die hard Bishops fan. So, well, don't make my Perez look too much like a fool.

Ted: Nahh, he does that enough himself.

(Cassie giggles)

Cassie: So why are you here? I got floored in a game against New York.

Ted: The Rainbow Warriors? What, were they trying to get down on your poor blonde self?

Cassie (laughing): No, I don't play for them, I play for St. Louis. Aim High, Play Hard, Shoot Straight, Be Blonde!

Ted: Ha! I'm here just working off a hammy. I'm going to be pitching next Wednesday against your Bishops- care to join me for dinner after the game?

Cassie (seductively): Well, given that I have a game that night, sure, even though I'd rather just get a seat behind home plate and stand the whole game with my sexiest outfit staring you in the face.

Ted: Why do that? You want me that badly?

Cassie: Nope, just want to distract you enough so that my Bishops win. (giggles)

Ted: And it would work too.

Cassie: I've noticed that. Aren't you supposed to be working that hammy on the bike already?

Ted: Yeah, well, good luck to you losing to Chicago.

Cassie: Same to you getting hammered by my Bishops. And, oh, Ted, catch!

(Cassie throws Ted a water bottle which she autographs and puts her cell phone number on.)

Ted: Nice arm, you should be a pitcher.

Cassie: Nice ass, you should be a politician, hehe. See you in St. Louis.

(With that Cassie leaves the gym. We are now back in St. Louis, right after defeating Chicago by 20 points, with Cassie coming back with a game-high 17. She is sitting in the locker room with Chris and Tamika changing to leave. She has her Saints T-shirt on and is getting changed into her street clothes. Tamika is already dressed, which isn't saying much given that she wears her sweat suit everywhere, and Chris is getting into tight jeans and a button-down blouse.)

Chris: Heading down to the Gateway with me, Cassie?

Cassie: No, got a date already, I guess.

Chris: You guess? What, you gonna open up your closet door and see if there's a brunette standing there trying on your lingerie like the good old days?

Cassie: No, (sighs) I got some guy who couldn't get a clue if I grabbed you by the waist and kissed you in front of him while you all but undid my belt.

Chris: Hey, I'm game, why not? He'd probably enjoy it- remind him of his old girlfriend, Penthouse.

Cassie: I'd need a stepladder! (laughs) Besides, this'll make Olivia happy. It's not like I'd ever see him again, he's a pitcher for the Kids.

Chris: Oh, please, look at yourself! At least you had pride enough not to deny who you are. You may not have wanted to show yourself but you had the decency to not lie about it either. What, you gonna be Sammie Smythe now, get married with triplets while you get assistance from the assistant coach in the showers?

Cassie: Given that both our assistant coaches are male, I do not think you need to worry.

Chris (rolling her eyes): Very funny.

Cassie: Look, it's just a picture in the paper. So I sell some tickets, look nice and wholesome, make the press happy, keep the league going and the arena full, and we will all be happier. It's not that much a sin to want to keep this league happy, is it? And if it means that some people have to think we're all straight housewives for a while until they see how well we play, well, I'd rather have that than see the players of the future have nowhere to go.

Tamika: Cassie's right, yo, we ain't gonna go anywhere without people to support us. I'd rather have Cassie go out there and show some class and grace with someone and keep it going while someone like you (looks at Chris) comes out with pride. It's a balancing act. So she's beautiful too- let the guys soak it up, get in the door and stay for the basketball. It's good business, nothing personal.

Chris: Leave it to Filly. She's straight, blonde, and hell, I wouldn't mind seeing a thong bikini contest between you two since that IS where you are going with this.

Cassie: As always, you are making too big of a deal with this. I'll always be me. I'll always truly love women, (sigh) when I find one. Now, skirt, or jeans?

Chris: Blinders. (Gets up and leaves.)

Tamika: Don't worry about her, yo, she's so happy she forgot what it's like to be gay. I think this isn't that bad, but don't forget who you are inside. Always be Cassie McNeal first and CASSSIIIIEEEEEEEE MCCCCCCNNNNEEEEEAAAAAALLLLLL second. Just like I'm the Princeton grad first and the gangsta express second; in sports you are always two people, a person and an athlete. The athlete is, well, there to be looked at, a little doll for people to take and play with for 2 hours to forget who they are, their problems, their sins, their shortcomings. An athlete is perfection personified, a tireless, noble, grand soul who gives up everything for one simple moment in time when they are shown to the world in all their glory, in all their achievements. Think about it, 40 minutes, not even an hour, not even enough time to get home from work during rush hour. That's all we do night in and night out, playing children's games for 40 minutes a night. And yet, we get paid like kings and queens, we are celebrities, we are lauded by the media, and play in front of thousands of people. And of that how many minutes a year are we really great, one if you're good? So we are here for what now? To play our parts. So I be da bad azz mother fucka out hayre to take cayre of my goils so no one fuck wit dem and no one beat dem and no one certainly take dem lightly. So they think I go back here and smoke ma weed and sit in da shower offering ma hot fudge sundae to any and all takas and why? Because that happens to be my role. My husband knows it, my kid knows it, we both know it. I came from one of the top educations you can get here, earning every bit of it, going to special prep schools and giving up a year of eligibility to study abroad in France. But I'm still good old Mee-Koooooo DAAaaaaavvvvvviiiissss to them, and you're sweet little Cassie. God didn't make you a Barbie doll, He made you a person. So go out with this pitcher, but never forget who Cassie McNeal really is. Always be yourself inside- don't turn yourself into a Barbie doll.

(Cassie leaves for her date with Ted. On her way out she bumps into Filly, who is signing autographs for the fans outside the player exit. She joins in signing for fans, kids, boys, and parents.)

Man: I love you, Filly, how much for me to ride you in the derby?

Filly: Hmmmmm, already got a stable, thanks, hehe.

Cassie: Don't even ask?

Man: No, I wouldn't wanna set off your beautiful shot, Cass, you rule too.

Filly (aside): How do you put up with it, Cassie? All the boys?

Cassie (aside): Hmmm, it's easy. Do you know what you would do if you were in high school, and you were approached by one of these boys: rude, drunk, fat (man reaches over the rail with a shirt for the girls to sign) whoo! Whoa there! smelly fans.

Filly: Not exactly, so well…

Cassie: Make 'em look handsome like this: Oh my! Have we been pouring our hearts out for us haven't we? (Aside) See, Filly, just get the people to like you no matter what you think of them.

Man: Yeah baby! Only for you Cass, WHOO! GO SAINTS!

Cassie: Awwwwwwww! (She steps to the side and blushes as the man leaps in the air yelling brags at his buddies.) (aside) See, Filly, ya gotta learn to open up and say aww.

Filly: Hehe, so treat every compliment like Brad Pitt giving you flowers. But, ummm, what…about, you know, the…

Cassie: Ladies who are female inclined as well?

Filly: Yeah. I mean I don't mind them doing what they want to do... but well, they try not to look like women, they want to be more male, so why do they come after me?

Cassie: Simple: If a man asks for an autograph, sign it and blush- if a woman asks for an autograph, sign it and make THEM blush.

Filly (whispering): But I'm not gay!

Cassie: Well, do I look like I'm gay?

Filly: Maybe to someone who reads too much porn. Of course not, don't you have a date tonight with a Big Leaguer? (She squeals girlishly.)

Cassie: Exactly. Give 'em something for them to write on the fan porn boards, no one reads those anyway. But if they did I bet you they think we're heading to Boston to get hitched.

Filly: Ewww!

Cassie: It's a way of life, just like Tamika is black and you're Republican.

Filly: (giggles) Hehe, ok. I'll try.

Butch Woman: Hey there, Cass-ay! Great game back.

Cassie: Thanks, Rocky! (signs her basketball)

Filly: Yeah, she's teaching me everything I know, (signs) and I DO mean EVERYTHING!

(The woman gives Cassie and Filly a very strange look.)

Cassie (aside): Ok, maybe not THAT much fodder for the internet, rookie!

Filly: Eek!

Cassie: Well, I'm late for my date. Ted's picking me up at the ballpark. Besides, your catch is coming out the door.

Filly: Hey! Artie is a cool guy, even if he DOES play Megan the Holy Mackerel!

Cassie: And you call the lesbians strange...

(We go to the television and see Cassie walking out of the ballpark with Ted, arm in arm)

Billy: And in other Saints news, the Kid IS alright for Cassie McNeal, it seems, as we just saw her and stud pitcher Ted Gruber leaving Chessman Field after Ted dismantled the Bishops with 7 innings and 12 strikeouts in their 9-2 loss to the Kids. Hey, Cassie, if you REALLY love him, how about bringing him over to the Bishops? Just kidding, folks, we hope this turns out for the best, even if Ted does play for the other team.

(The season progresses. We see an interlude with Cassie lighting up the scoreboards with massive performances, a Saints 10-game winning streak, and an impressive 15-5 record halfway through the 40-game season. Not only is she great, averaging 15 points and 8 assists a game, but she and Filly have become the Paris and Nicole of women's basketball. The whole team is responding to the play of Cassie at point guard and everyone is filling the arena to see the Saints play. They are the talk of St. Louis, and are even selling out arenas in poorly drawing markets like Chicago and Miami. The fans have caught on to the hot play and the hotter looks of the Saints. Off the field, Cassie seems to be having the time of her life; she is seen with Ted every chance she gets, driving to Chicago for Kid games on every off day. Even when Ted plays the Bishops, they have to cheer for the boyfriend of their beloved St. Louis Shooter. Nationally Cassie's appeal is beyond reproach- she does all the talk shows on being a female athlete and even schools the morning foulmouthed DJs in pick-up games, earning respect and being a role model for girls everywhere. Happiness abounds. There isn't one person or one city that doesn't think Cassie McNeal is the greatest player in the world today. We see Cassie on the way to the airport for a road trip to New York. She is driving a red sports car with the license plate "KidSaint". She gets out of the car in the parking lot, emerging in a blue and silver short jersey dress with the Saints logo on it. She enters the terminal and gets hounded by almost every red cap asking to take her bags, every kid asking for her autograph, and every guy just looking for a good place to stare. Cassie sees a small group of kids and signs autographs for them, and then sees a group of young men and ties her shoes for them. She then joins her team outside security.)

Cassie: Hey, girls.

Tamika: Yo! Look who finally made it in!

Bessie: Ya late, girl! Man, when someone arrives after I do, they're LATE!

Andy: Don't worry, Cassie, as long as you're here. Lemme guess, you got stuck at your interview?

Cassie: I think. Which one, I forget- so many these days.

Chris: Jeez! Well, I hope you took all the change out of your pockets! You've been carrying around too much baggage these days and you let all the change linger around too much.

Tamika: Yo! And I say I went to Princeton. Whatcha talkin' bout, Chris?

Filly (muttering to a bench player): Yeah, she *says* she went to Princeton.

Chris: Well, she's been shooting the ball too straight recently. When you shoot the ball too straight, it goes off the iron and you don't get anything.

Filly: What does a gay center know about shooting straight in any sense of the word anyway? (laughs)

Andy: Ok, ok, let's focus and get ready for the game. Let's head on out!

Chris: Blondies first, Cassie, let's head on OUT!

Cassie (winking at Chris): Sure thing, queer! (goes through the metal detector and sets off alarm)

Chris: Just what they wanted to do, strip search Cassie McNeal. Man, there will be fun in the break room tonight!

Cassie: Sorry guys, just a watch. (takes off her watch and shows it to the security guards).

Guard: We see. Go on through, Cassie.

(Chris walks through cleanly, looking angry at the security guard.)

Chris: John Wilkes Booth was a celebrity too, you know.

(They board the plane and show up in New York, where they are met by a large contingent of lesbian fans.)

Fans: Yeah, Chrissy! Whoo!

Cassie: Well, look at it this way, Filly, they won't look at us too much.

Filly: Yeah!

(We are taken to the majestic arena in Park Slope. With its cable stay roof and loud fans, it is known as the toughest venue in the league. The stands are packed and the place is jumping; it has been sold out for months. The Saints are greeted by loud boos, especially for Cassie; in fact, the only player they cheer is Chris. Meanwhile their Warriors are lauded greatly in their famous white jerseys with the rainbow around the chest, which gives them their unofficial nickname of "Rainbow Warriors" and was indeed put there by their co-owner: a famous openly lesbian entertainer. They are led onto the floor by Stoney, a large mouse who carries the rainbow flag to center court; its gender is unknown. They circle the court in front of the Saints, and then gather at the center. Cassie smiles at this introduction. Why is unknown but she seems distracted for a while by this display. It's not like the Saints do not have their own flashy entrance, or sold out crowds, or goofy animal mascots, and yet she looks with longing- almost regret- that she didn't sign here the past year when she was a free agent. She gets back to her warm-up, but not without attracting Andy's concern.)

Andy: C'mon, Cass, focus, it's not like you haven't seen a flashy entrance before. This is a big one, you don't think that they won't be fucking pissed after we beat them last game? They are the only team in the league with a better record than us, so show 'em something.

(Cassie tries to focus, but something keeps grabbing her attention. It's not the hecklers, or the mascots; it's not the bright lights or the big city; it's not her ex standing across her path warming up to the same huge crowd. It's inside the crowd: the two women in jerseys sneaking a kiss before the game, the lesbian couples gleefully holding hands- one pair holding them high in the air and mocking St. Louis- she sees a straight couple sitting next to a lesbian fan so masculine looking even Chris had to look twice to see if it wasn't a guy. It's the tolerance in general, black and white, Asian and Hispanic, Jew and Muslim- you don't see this much diversity in the Midwest. She sighs and continues her warm-up. She looks over at Chris and sees her smile; home sweet home, and not just because she played here in the league's first 3 years before becoming the tall chick for hire. Cassie can only think that there are only two more places more wonderful, San Francisco and Boston, neither with a team in the league. She passes the ball around; everyone but her and Filly seem more comfortable in this arena. Bessie is known to be gay, with a lover for the past 5 years who she lives with in Florida in the offseason, yet people do not know this because they have a beautiful daughter through an early marriage right out of college- she sometimes even calls her woman her second spouse. Tamika went to school here and met her husband at a game held in this arena, and the bench players are just starstruck at the aura of the hallowed halls where they saw greatness, both male and female, rise. She and Filly seem very uncomfortable with their surroundings for different reasons, yet all that is seen is their fear: Filly's out of intolerance, Cassie's out of giving in to intolerance. Yet they stand together at center court, united in discomfort as the horn sounds and the lights go out, the fireworks go off, and the teams take the floor for the game.)

Billy: And we are underway here in New York, with the Saints trying to extend their winning streak to 11 against a Warrior team that is just as tough. McNeal gets the tip from Van Allen, tries to give it to Anderson, and throws it high and away! A bad start here for the Saints as a blunder happens right on the opening tip.

(The game goes on and Cassie has her worst game of her life; she only plays 4 minutes in the first half with no points after picking up 2 quick fouls. She sits on the bench swearing at herself.)

Andy: C'mon Cassie, get with it, you're better than this! Get your head in the game! If we wanna be champs, we have to beat these people!

Cassie: I dunno, I'm just fucked up today. I dunno, this is a tough team.

Andy: Never in my life have I coached a quitter, now shake it off and show them who you are. BE WHO YOU ARE!!!

Cassie: That never works, coach.

Andy: C'mon, let's not go there. Get out there and show them that you aren't afraid. You are the best player in the league and you are playing like a high school freshman out there, so GET YOUR HEAD TOGETHER! Okay?

Billy: And the Saints look like fish out of water right now, down 20 at the half. No points from McNeal, four turnovers by Anderson, and the only bright spot being Chris Van Allen and her inspired 14 points, otherwise this might be a 30-point lead.

(Back in the locker room at halftime, we see Chris furious at Cassie and Filly.)

Chris: I've put up with a lot here! You know I'm not the most popular person back here, but I always give 100% here, and what do you do? What do you do?! You sit back and worry more about who looks better than in a miniskirt than who the better team is, you worry more about manicures than getting manhandled. Now I don't know about you, but I know I am SICK of this display tonight! Now you tell me what the hell we are doing here?

Andy: Now I want you to go out and play your best this half. It's 40 games, not one. Just show that your play this half was not Saints basketball, should we meet them in the finals. We have to regroup and be ready for the next game. Now go on out there and play like you can and we are going to be just fine.

(The team heads out for the second half but Andy holds back Chris.)

Andy: We have our way of doing things, not yours.

(The scene shifts to the game. The Saints never get back into it, and finally lose by 35. Chris was the only bright spot... but after the game, there is talk abounding. By the time they land back in St. Louis, there is a full fledged debate in the front office between Andy and Olivia.)

Olivia: We have a chance to make a good trade for us. We can get the 6'10" Russian bear here.

Andy: She's also fat and slow, and doesn't use her size. She's born a center and acts like she's more of a point guard than Cassie!

Olivia: We have our speed on the outside, you should know that. But we lack presence down low, and with the exception of last night, Chris has not been that useful. Tamika has a big heart but is too small, and Bessie is not a good defender.

Andy: What's the offer?

Olivia: Natasha Kovalev and New York's 2nd round pick for Chris Van Allen.

Andy: I dunno. It's a good deal, and it would make Chris happy but as much as they deny it, I think Chris is a leader.

Olivia: Why do you say that? She's always running her mouth off. She and Filly can barely even look at each other without nearly coming to blows. She's been a problem ever since she got here. She's a great player but she's 40, angry, and just doesn't get it with our team.

Andy: I wouldn't be so sure. I think she has a bigger impact than people think. I didn't get it at first but she speaks what she thinks, she earns respect and commands it, and she has done very well, especially on defense. She adds a dimension that no one else provides and I think her leaving may hurt a lot of our people, especially Cassie.

Olivia: Cassie? Last I checked, Chris wanted Cassie dead because she objects to her having a boyfriend. Guess she's upset that she couldn't get someone as good-looking as her as a girlfriend.

Andy: Oh, cut the bullshit, I may be male but I'm not as shallow as a kiddy pool! It's Cassie's life and if she wants to sell her soul to sell the game, she's grown up enough to do it. But damn it, this ain't the boys where there is a culture that can't be broken and I've coached enough guys to know that a lot of them were much worse than Cassie. Chris, in all her bitter honesty, is what is holding her together, you've seen it. You were in that situation yourself, and don't say you weren't because I remember dreaming back in the '70s that I was Mr. Kyle as in Olivia Bartholomew-Kyle, and you know more than I what crap that was.

Olivia: What, do you resent me having a son?

Andy: I don't resent anything you do except denying who you are.

Olivia: Chris sounds like she got to you too. I'm not here- no, we are not here to make a statement, that's for the bars and the Congress. We are here to win games and sell the game so women have a place to play, and if that means being more discreet, the end justifies the means. You men have had a sold out arena for 50 years- starting next game, we will have one for 5 games. You are a great coach and great for the sport, but you can't be emotional about choices. I know you are a great father and with your children grown, you sometimes see these girls as your daughters. But you are here to win, and you have done a great job, a job that you have done very well for decades in both men and women, college and professional. Now take your heart out of this and make a decision based on the facts, and the fact is that we need more presence in the post. Now we have 4 days off, this is a perfect time to make a trade.

Andy: I AM looking at the facts. We just had a terrible loss, we looked afraid to win out there and now we want to trade a very solid veteran. I'm thinking about team chemistry out there.

Olivia: I think it'll be better without that pot stirrer in there.

Andy: Our winning percentage or the number of tickets you can sell?

Olivia: This is St. Louis, we need to be careful. This looks better, and well, I think we will be better too.

Andy: Chris schooled Natasha both times we played them. She BECAME our offense last game. 29 points, 15 boards against her, and you want them to swap places? All right, but I have my doubts, especially with Cassie. She looks really distracted out there. Can you at least talk to her?

Olivia: I'll let her know you care so much.

(Olivia calls Chris's agent and New York's general manager and notifies them of the trade. We are now taken to the practice floor the day after the trade. Natasha is still taking her physical and everyone is talking about the trade.)

Filly: Good riddance! She was a nutcase- not because she was gay, but cuz (pauses to think up of an excuse)…she was a nutcase, and she was queer to boot. Now I can shower in peace.

Bessie: Aw, C'mon! Don't be like that! Chris was a great professional! This girl is overrated- big but overrated.

Cassie: I just think Natasha upsets us a little bit, but it's a good trade. It could be worse. They didn't trade her for Sally, after all.

Bessie: You'd like that, wouldn't you?

Cassie: Hell no, my significant others don't qualify for this league, remember?

Bessie: I know, I'm married, remember? (wink)

Filly: I know, it feels good for us to not have to worry exactly how the other girls are looking at us.

Cassie: Oh c'mon, you know she wasn't like that.

Filly: Still, she didn't have to come out and say she was a dyke and act like she was better cuz she was a dyke. I mean, I could be a dyke but in this society it's our duty not to go out and say it.

Tamika: Just cuz you can't see a race don't mean that they ain't a race. Yo, ask a Jew why they wear CDs on their head or a Muslim goil why she wears hoodies.

Cassie: Yeah, well I gotta go, Ted's waiting. He just shut out the Bishops tonight.

(Cassie leaves the arena in tight blue jeans, a black top and black shoes. She is waiting in a steakhouse for Ted. Soon enough he arrives in blue jeans and a green button down shirt. He is wearing his Kids cap and is carrying something in a box.)

Ted: Hey, my little scorer.

Cassie: Hey, my big bat. (giggles)

Ted: I got you something, Cass.

Cassie: Awww, you shouldn't have.

(Ted gives her the box. Inside is a baseball- not just any baseball but one signed, "My first home run, only took two years and 50 strikeouts, not bad for a pitcher")

Cassie: You hit a home run?!

Ted: My last start, when I was in Los Angeles. The clubhouse guy finally recovered it and sent it to me. I know you had a bad game against New York... I want you to have it. Never give up hope, baby, you'll come out on top in the end. I know you always do, that's why I love ya. You are small, you still make the team. You get hurt, you come back to win 10 straight. You lose badly, you'll bounce back.

Cassie: Awww, I feel so bad, I mean this may be your only home run ever. You're a pitcher, and not Babe Ruth either. This is such a big accomplishment. I just don't want to…

Ted: Please, Cass, I hit it for you. I know tolerance means a lot to you, you work with gays a lot, so, well, do you know who I hit this off of?

Cassie: Who?

Ted: Sammy Skokie.

Cassie: That racist pig? He's still around? God, I remember him getting kicked off of Boston cuz he said that their best player's wife HAD to be a lesbian, because she played soccer, and then said there was only one reason he would go out with a lesbian, because he's gay. And then said everyone in New York would die of AIDS because of "fag sex" in 30 years.

Ted: They called him up to see if he could settle down and be a starter. 7 runs followed by a home run by a pitcher, yeah, he's not around anymore.

Cassie: I'm so proud, I'm touched really. You didn't need to do this, oh, Ted... (hugs him) I wish I could do more for you.

Ted: You do enough. I love you, Cass. I know you aren't like the others. I don't mind gays, but well, you are special. You show girls that sports aren't just a place for bulked up lesbians or steroid-taking freaks. You can stand out and be beautiful, and make the world beautiful. That's why the world loves you, and that's why I love you.

Cassie: Hehe, that's why I love you too. You know my feelings about things, you never assume, you never are petty, you just put yourself forward for everyone.

Ted: Thanks, I love you so much. When we're ready, I'd marry you.

Cassie (sighs): Someday.

Ted: Is there something bothering you?

Cassie: They traded Chris Van Allen back to New York.

Ted: She was a friend?

Cassie: Not really, but she was a good part of the team.

Ted: And now she plays for the other team?

Cassie (laughing): Ohh, Ted, if you only knew what you said!

Ted: What?

Cassie: She was the first ever player in the league to come out publicly.

Ted: Oh my! (laughing)

(both laugh extensively)

Cassie: It's okay. She was a good leader- she's 40, been playing ball for most all of her life. She's a veteran. Just think the management let her go because she was gay, and it bugs me.

Ted: Hey, don't think like that! You got something good in return, right?

Cassie: Young center from Russia, BIG girl, 6'10", 250 lbs.

Ted: Wow!

Cassie: (sighs) The bigger they are…

Ted: I know what you mean, but hey, she's got potential. You're still a young team.

Cassie: I know they had some sort of reason... who knows, maybe Chris asked them.

Ted: It's okay. You can be suspicious, but hey, go with it. I don't like every decision, but hey, I'll still play hard every day. That's what you have to do, play hard every day.

Cassie: You're so good to me. I don't know why I deserve you... a major leaguer like you with some girl living off of endorsements.

Ted: Your day will come. It's already coming. More people know about you than ever before, that's something to be proud of. People will look at you 20 years from now and say "see that, she's why my daughter is an athlete, and now she's making millions". You really rule. Just keep it going: be a good teammate, but don't be afraid to lead, don't be afraid to be yourself.

Cassie: Awww, I really like you. I'm so torn really, I mean, I know I should just settle down and be yours.

Ted: Not at all. Cassie, I'm a free agent next year. The Bishops tried to trade their entire team to get me but those two teams would never trade anyone major. I'll come here, and we can be together. I'm here for you. I want to make a home with you.

Cassie: I know, but... this is so hard. I just don't know.

Ted: Don't know what?

Cassie: Thanks. Now, tomorrow's an afternoon game, can we meet then? I'm just really tired from this trade, had to go through all our training camp in 3 hours to break in the new girl. I'm sorry.

Ted: Sure. (kisses Cassie) Don't be sorry, I understand. You got a job to do, and I got an off day tomorrow. But by the way, when will you be ready to get married?

Cassie: When we both can show that we are perfect.

Ted: (laughs) It'll come, don't worry.

(Cassie walks out, smiling at Ted. She then hops a cab and gets out at the fabled St. Louis Gateway Arch. She sighs as she walks down the street slowly. She grabs her head almost thinking "what can I do". She then walks 2 blocks to the south, turns to the left, goes 5 blocks to the east, and looks on the left side of the street. She sees a rainbow flag hanging from a building tucked away in an alley and she lights up with a large smile. She looks both ways before crossing the street, but seems to be doing so more to make sure no one is watching than to see if any traffic is approaching then crosses the street. She then walks up to the door, and a very large, well built woman is standing there, with long brown hair, about 6'2", 215, and wearing a very large scowl on her face. She is in a blue suit that shows off what makes her such a tough bouncer. It is for this reason more than her obviously butch appearance that she is known as "Abby the Butcher" to the lesbian community. She has fought her fair share of men and has beaten them all; rumor has it that she tried out for the high school football team as a linebacker and actually was cut not because of weakness but because of lack of speed. As it is, she was a renowned women's boxer in her younger days. Her scowl relents a little when she sees Cassie.)

Abby: Well, look who the tide washed in this week. What, no boyfriend? Shit, Cass, I'm disappointed. I was looking forward to kicking the crap out of a sissy pitcher. Besides that, I lost 20 bucks on the Bishops because of that goon.

Cassie: Oh, c'mon, Abby, you know Ted's just a joke to get more money out of endorsements. I mean, hell, you know why I ended up with him?

Abby: He followed you around so much you asked him out to get him off your back? Ya know, you could have just called me up instead.

Cassie: No, when I told him I played for the other team, he asked if I was from St. Louis, and when I said I was a lefty, he showed me his pitching arm. Anyone that dumb is just plain useful.

Abby: Users are losers. But I guess if he's that dumb, no use fighting him, nothing in there to damage. Anyway, you're back here, so I take it you couldn't let money get in the way of facts, or a good time.

Cassie: Something like that. I dunno, I know I've let down the community with this All-American couple thing. I just, (sighs) It's…

Abby: Not easy making green? I've heard that before. Hey, how's the exploratory committee for governor going?

Cassie: Huh?

Abby: C'mon... the husband, the preaching to kids, the kissing babies, turning up the color- excuse me. (puts on pair of sunglasses) There. Turning up the color on the dye job…you're running for governor of New Jersey, right?

Cassie: Very funny!

Abby: Hey, I'd let ya in but I bet you don't remember the cover charge.

Cassie: Wisegirl! Of course I do! (pulls out $25 and a package of soup crackers) Do you think it's enough?

Abby: What, not the cheese kind? Man, you have been gone too long! It'll do, they aren't that mad at you in there.

Cassie: Besides, knowing you, you wouldn't mind a fight. Just an excuse to grab me by the waist.

Abby: Hey! Easy there! But you know I'm always respectful.

Cassie: What, no frisking the blondes?

Abby: Maybe if you bring that straight nut, just to scare her off, I would.

Cassie: Don't bet on that anytime soon. Sheesh, she's a piece of work.

Abby: Tell me about it. Anna K with a jump shot, wow!

Cassie: I have a better jump shot, a better dye job, and I actually play for the same team, wiseass!

Abby: Coulda fooled me!

Cassie: Well, are you gonna let me in or not?

Abby: Sure, welcome back. Try not to cause too much trouble.

Cassie (Entering doorway): Who, me? Never. And, well, you aren't going to stick my money back into my back pocket? What, the riverboats not treating you as well as they used to?

Abby (handing back the $25): Trust me, the way you've been acting, I had to think twice before letting you in. But welcome home, Cassie. Make sure you stick around this time.

(Cassie enters the narrow staircase that actually opens up into a much larger set of rooms in the basement of the building. We see the large establishment, which is called "The Gateway" as illustrated by the large neon sign hanging over the stage, which has a DJ on it spinning the normal pop music you'd hear in a nightclub. In front of the stage is a large dance floor crowded with lesbians both young and old dancing, some quite provocatively. To both sides are your normal tables and booths, all done in the color scheme of the Saints: blue and silver. There is memorabilia of Cassie dating back to her college days, and signed pictures of all the Saints teams as well as other women's sports greats. In the front there is a large silver and blue bar area, with stool #4 curiously vacant and gathering dust, while the other stools, going from occupied to unoccupied quickly from order to order, seem to be in good use. Cassie chuckles at this and walks over to stool #4 and blows off some of the dust and sits down, drawing attention from almost everyone. The bartender runs over to Cassie, or at least goes as fast as she can in her crisscrossed black bodysuit and high heels, her blonde hair flying in her face. She has beauty but defiantly keeps it to attracting women with her facial expressions.)

Bartender: ID please.

(Cassie looks confused but pulls out her driver's license. Being 26, she takes it as a compliment to be carded, looking so young and all.)

Bartender: Oh, I just wanted to make sure it was really you, Cassie. (giggles) Welcome back. As you can see, we've kept your place here, even if you haven't needed it this season.

Cassie: I've noticed. Thanks, I guess. I take it the community isn't that ticked off at me running off with the straight act?

Bartender: Hey, we've seen worse. We've seen people married 20 years come here. Hey, why not if you can get a $5000 ring out of the thing? Might as well act away.

Cassie: I'm not quite like that, I just... (sigh) I haven't done a good job keeping this season in perspective. I know that now, I guess I owe the community an apology.

Bartender: Nahhh, but a round of drinks would be nice.

Cassie: Maybe one round to any cute single woman I see here.

Bartender: See, not too far off from the Cassie I remember, aside from not having Sally around.

Cassie: She's back to brunette, you won't mix us up again. Which is a good thing; as much as I loved her, life's too short to drink cheap beer. Which reminds me, the regular, please, or do you still remember how to make it?

Bartender: The Cassmopolitan? Of course I remember it! Playing baseball or not it's still our best seller here. See, you are still you here, even if you refuse to admit it yourself.

Cassie: (giggles) Well, I'm glad you haven't lost faith in me yet. What a strange world it is. You know in New York, you and me could be kissing on a park bench and the passers-by would react just like they would a couple of straights.

Bartender (Handing Cassie her Cassmo): Hey, don't worry about it, it's a great place here, and you're home. I know you feel pressured, with the press, the fans, the popularity, but hey, you are at least trying to be happy again. Not saying that Ted isn't a great guy, but…

Cassie: I know. I want to come out, be clean, be satisfied, let the public know and let them judge one way or another. But, well, he's one reason I don't. He's a great guy, really. He's going to make some straight woman very happy for sure. But he found me, and, well, I don't know, I guess I'm just guilty and lonely at the same time. At least the lonely part can be taken care of here, so well, any new singles?

Bartender: I thought you'd never ask.

(Cassie licks her lips as a beautiful, natural blonde in a slinky red dress walks by.)

Cassie: Aye carumba! Who's the supermodel?

Bartender: Jenny Salo, Swedish soccer player.

Cassie: Is she taken?

Bartender: There's your answer.

(A woman who could pass as Jenny's twin walks in through the side door and takes a seat on Jenny's lap.)

Cassie: Ahhh, the twin act. I didn't know we had a soccer team here.

Bartender: Friendly with the US women at Chessmen this Sunday. They're here all week for practice- found us in the Rainbow Pages.

Cassie: Very funny. Like someone would have us listed in the travel guides, let alone the Rainbow Pages, the most well known gay travel guide in the world.

Bartender: Know any other lesbian places around here?

Cassie: That make good drinks? Not really. Oh well, I have enough traveling with Ted.

Bartender: Well if you drive to Chicago to sleep with someone you don't enjoy, I wouldn't think flying to Sweden would be an issue.

Cassie: Very funny. (Casts her lustful eye elsewhere and spies a cute black-haired girl about her size with a boy cut, tight jeans with suede patches down the side and a tight black Benetton T-shirt. She sits all alone taking in the scenery.) Hey, who's the wallflower?

Bartender: Minty, a college girl.

Cassie: Minty? What kind of name is that? And shame on you serving to minors again. (laughs)

Bartender: She's 25. She spent 3 years in the army before coming over here from Israel. She's going to be a senior, well, if she gets back the year she lost as a foreign transfer. You'd like her: shooting guard, great crossover. Really shy, though, I don't think she's comfortable speaking English. She just sits there drinking beer. Some girls hit on her but don't seem to go anywhere. I think she may have someone back home.

Cassie: Still? Minty?

Bartender: Easier to say than Leah Mientkewitz, you know!

Cassie: Eek, yeah! Well, she's really cute, what does she drink?

Bartender: I hope you saved that $25 you got back from Abby. She only drinks imported beer.

Cassie: My kinda lady! Beer delivery, please.

Bartender: I thought you'd never ask.

(Cassie gets up from the bar and walks over to Minty's table while a waitress brings over a bottle of beer and points toward Cassie. Minty looks confused as Cassie sits down across from her.)

Cassie: Hi, you must be Leah. I'm Cassie McNeal.

(Minty's face glows a little, but she still keeps a disinterested look on her face. Fact is, no one has called her by that name in a long time. She speaks with a heavy accent)

Minty: Shalom, Cassie.

Cassie: Shalom! (Minty tries hard not to smile but she obviously is flattered.) Are you…

Minty: What, Jewish? Of course!

(Cassie is taken aback and wonders if indeed she doesn't know much English. She seems a little uncomfortable, but continues)

Cassie (chuckles): Of course, I mean do you have…

Minty: I'm here, aren't I?

Cassie: Yes, well, I'm a point guard. I play for the…

Minty: I know who you are…your picture is everywhere! Tell ME, I see you with baseball player, at least before the baseball puts me to sleep. Are you really…

(Cassie gets it now: she's playing hard to get, hiding behind her nationality and accent. Cassie plays along.)

Cassie: What, Christian? Of course!

(Minty lights up, she cracks a coy smile and laughs.)

Minty: Haha, dance?

Cassie: Sure.

(The two get up and hit the dance floor, both going at it quite well, and drawing the attention of almost everyone there since Cassie hasn't been there in almost 6 months, and they've never seen Minty leave her seat. The two dance for what seems to be forever, then go back to their table, smiling and laughing.)

Minty: I didn't think point guards could move like that, just pass it across the court for us shooters to do it.

Cassie: Well they don't call me the St. Louis Shooter for nothing.

Minty: Yeah, I know, your picture is everywhere!

Cassie: Sometimes I wish it wasn't... but say, are you hungry?

Minty: Sure.

(The two leave the bar, hand in hand, but Cassie lets go of Minty as soon as they hit the open street. Minty seems upset but says nothing. The two hail a cab and take a ride to the campus all-night burger joint, where Cassie and Minty take a vacant table in the crowded diner, passing people in line who let her go ahead because it IS Cassie McNeal.)

Cassie: So, how do you like it here?

Minty: It's a big country, but it's nice.

Cassie: Yeah, I hear Israel's really nice as well.

Minty: Really, you mean you don't think it's a place where every 4th car explodes every 5th second? Wow, you really don't listen to those Yeidiots do you, then why date baseball player?

Cassie: Idiots?

Minty: No, yeidiots, yeidiot is Hebrew for "news".

Cassie: Wow, no kidding, they meant it when they said that Jews don't mince words. I like that.

Minty: I figured you would. So are you afraid to be a le..

(Cassie grows upset over Minty using the L word in public)

Cassie: Please…(she is correcting Minty)

Minty: I understand, you don't think the people would understand. But it's better than Israel, where the morons won't come out to a basketball game even though we draw top flight talent like Chris Van Allen and the men's league is more predictable than pro wrestling.

Cassie: Really?

Minty: Yeah, they are very sexist there. Here women have a chance to sell out an arena. It's really very special.

(The waiter comes to take their order.)

Cassie: I'll have a che…Er, sorry, Leah, a regular hamburger.

Minty: Fuck that, get me a double bacon cheeseburger, extra bacon!

Cassie: You didn't have to do that!

Minty: You kidding me? I've been eating cheeseburgers since I was 5 and some Christian is going to make me keep kosher? Hell no!

Cassie: Sorry, I guess you get that all the time.

Minty: It's all right, at least you don't think I wear a Frisbee on my head or know the Talmud by heart. Hell, what I know 'bout my own faith I got from reading the first half of your Bible.

Cassie: (Laughing) Oh man, I'm sure you get that so much, 'cause we always think of Israel as…

Minty: The land of American-born God freaks and terrorism. Oh, I know. Well, I was born and raised in Tel Aviv and have never had a terrorist attack within 10 miles of my home, so there.

Cassie: And here I thought you all had to carry around gas masks.

Minty: Oh that IS something I do! The amount of smoking they have there, you need it!

(Cassie breaks out laughing) Cassie: Oh my, you are a rebel, aren't you?

Minty: You could say that. I just like being who I am. Who are you, Cassie?

Cassie: Someone who cares just a little too much about what people think, I guess.

Minty: It's all right, there are worse things you can be.

(The food arrives and the scene shifts to later where Cassie is taking Minty back to Minty's apartment. She stops in the foyer and looks at Minty.)

Cassie: Thanks, Leah, it was great. It really was. I dunno, soon I'll be ready. I really had things put in focus tonight. I can never repay you for that.

Minty: Oh, well, you are drowning in a flood, Cassie: the fame, the money, the Ted, the money, the winning, the fancy cars, the fans, the press. But there is one sure way to stop a flood.

Cassie: Oh really, what's that?

Minty: Stick your finger in the hole in the dyke.

Cassie (Almost dies laughing): I cannot believe you just said that! (laughing)

Minty (runs into broom closet): Perhaps you would be more comfortable in here... (giggles).

Cassie: It's true, that can I say.

(Cassie runs into the closet with Minty and the two make out for a short time, then run out of the closet laughing.)

Cassie: Man, being in the closet really does stink.

Minty: Actually, the maid just forgot to empty the mop water again.

Cassie: Hehe, come here…(they kiss) mmmm... now I know why they call you Minty.

Minty: Really? I thought I tasted more like Juicy Fruit myself.

(The two then head up the elevator to Minty's apartment. The next day before the game, Cassie has a new spring in her step, is smiling more, and has regained her shot. She goes off for a triple double, points, assists, and steals. Everyone thinks it is because of her and Ted. Back in the locker room, Filly is talking with Cassie.)

Filly: Some night you must've had.

Cassie: Oh yeah, it was excellent, really the most fun I've had in my life.

Filly: So you and Ted going to get married?

Cassie: Maybe. He's a free agent this year, so maybe he will sign with the Bishops and then we can talk about it.

Filly: That's so cool!

Cassie: Yeah, it is.

(The scene then shifts again. This time we are taken to an interview of Chris Van Allen with Billy Starr.)

Billy: So Chris, how do you like New York, again?

Chris: It's great to be home, really home. It's a great feeling. Natasha will feel just as at home in St. Louis, I know.

Billy: Are you happy with how things turned out with the Saints?

Chris: It's a business, and every business has tough decisions. They wanted to get younger, and they got a fine center with nothing but upside for a woman who is pushing 40.

Billy: Did you get along with your teammates?

Chris: Well, it was hard. It is always hard with a new team, but I feel that they saw me for who I was and deep down respected that. I miss them but I'm glad I can try to win a championship here in New York, where I started my career.

Billy: Did you think you could do more with St. Louis?

Chris: Yes. I mean, this will sound wrong, but a lot of the players there were great athletes, but they were so concerned with their fame that they kept themselves from being what they could be. That just isn't healthy for them or for anyone else. They didn't know who they were on or off the court and that's the first thing you need to succeed, you need to know who you are.

Billy: And you felt that certain members of the team lacked that direction?

Chris: They were more concerned with being role models than they were being model players. That's fine, but they were letting it get in the way of their performance on the court. I mean, they are a great team, but there is too much there that is holding them back.

Billy: Do you feel your sexual orientation had anything to do with the trade?

Chris: I'm gay. People have known that for most of the time I have been in this league. I am pretty lonely in being gay in this league. There are plenty of homosexuals in the league, but I'm one of the few people who is truly gay around here. You see, in my opinion, being gay is more than just being a homosexual. It's about being comfortable, being happy with who you are, no matter what racists, or fools, or the uneducated think. I know heterosexuals who are more gay, more happy with who they are, no matter what everyone else thinks, more than some homosexuals I know. The ownership of St. Louis, while having a well known homosexual as a general manager, did everything in their power in making the players there as straight as possible, even if they were as homosexual as anyone else. Even if they did not choose to make their orientation public, were happy and content with being homosexual, gay, if you would. In one case, they took one woman and made her into a blushing bride when she was at the peak of her life and health emotionally.

Billy: So are you saying that there is a player on St. Louis who is being pushed into the closet and into personal pain in the interest of selling tickets? That's a serious thing to say!

Chris: Relax, Billy, she does it to herself more. It's just that the management sees this as a victory, not a problem. And until that mentality leaves this league, I'm not leaving this league.

(The interview ends and we see Cassie with Ted watching the interview that night on the news. Cassie is in a long blue hockey jersey and not much else, lying in the arms of Ted, who is shirtless and in blue sweats. Cassie sees this interview and winces. She doesn't know what to do or what to say. While Chris's words are innocent to most people, the last few lines hit Cassie very hard. She looks at Ted and Ted sees that she is hurt.)

Ted: What is it, Cass?

Cassie: She's so, ugg! She just doesn't know when to stop with me, she's obsessed.

Cassie: Oh Ted, you are so nice to me. I don't know what I would do without you. No, I don't need protection, we would only meet again in the finals. Besides that, she's more obsessed with everyone in the league. She thinks that because she's a lesbian, that everyone in the league must also be lesbians. She means well, but she can't leave well enough alone, never has, never will. That's why she will be nothing but a well-traveled journeywoman.

Ted: Ohhh baby, don't worry about her, she's just an idiot. I know you aren't gay, you've proven that to me oh so well. (Cassie giggles) You are a great kid, you really are. You are going to win the title, I know it. You are smart, beautiful, and one hell of an athlete. I don't mind saying that I could never keep up with you in a full session of training. You are so dedicated. I know you are thinking about the love of the game, a game that still needs to be sold, so you go out there every day and try to be perfect. That's normally not a good way to win, say all the coaches, but you go out there and you show your best stuff every day. And that's why I love you. I'm 12-4 with a 2.35 ERA right now, best pitcher on the team, and I know how much I could improve. You, you just work to improve yourself every second you are on that court. And you know what? That's what makes you great, not your looks, not your shot, or standing out in the rain after the game signing autographs forever. It's that they know they will see something out of Cassie McNeal that they haven't seen before and may never see again. I got a long way to go before I get there, if I get there. As you said, we'll marry each other when we're perfect. And I'll try for you.

Cassie: Awww... I really... I mean, I'm touched, I really am. You are a great guy and a good pitcher. You have all the potential to be a legend as long as you keep working at it. You can really be just as good, even better than you are now. You just need to remember one thing.

Ted: What?

Ted (relieved): Ohhh, right! It's not my best pitch.

Cassie: But the other guy fears the unknown the most. That's what separates the good from the great. Maybe not now when people are still figuring you out, but well, Chris was right about one thing. You can't shoot too straight or it will come off the rim and you won't have anything. You need to change things up a lot, not just being a great hard thrower but a crafty lefty who can get an out at any time.

Ted: So you think I throw too straight? That I can really have Hall of Fame stuff if I pull the string once in a while?

Cassie: No one likes a fly ball pitcher. Those fly balls carry, way too far sometimes.

Ted: I know, I give up a lot of home runs if my stuff isn't at its peak. That's where all 4 losses came from.

Cassie: I know you will try. You always at least try. You tried to understand Chris, you try to understand me, and you are a better person for it.

Ted: With you next to me, I know I will. (They kiss)

Cassie: I know you will do great. (sighs) I won't see you most the rest of the season.

Ted: I know. Our schedules, man, you're on the road or have a game when I'm home, when you have time off, I'm on the coasts.

Cassie: Be a good boy and a better pitcher.

Ted: And be a good girl and a better shooter.

Cassie: You know I will.

(The scene shifts. We see the remainder of the regular season: St. Louis goes on another tear, finishing 25-15 for the year, easily the #1 seed in the conference and, thanks to a late injury to Sally Harper, a good 3 games better than New York for the best record in the league. The fans are in a frenzy as Cassie leads the Saints through the playoffs. The public outpouring becomes greater; now male fans show up in groups with their phone numbers painted on their chests. Cassie and Filly make the cover of all the major sports publications, and Cassie has been playing her best basketball of the year, increasing her average assists and points greatly. Filly has also upped her game, and Natasha has been a rock in the post. The whole team has been in the zone recently, and off the court they seem more together too. Cassie is seen going out with Minty during the late night hours, and gets the attention of the press for her mentoring a young college star to take flight in the pro game. The feature stories do not even have a clue about their relationship, but there is a great buzz in the lesbian community as if one of their own is finally home. Now both lesbian and straight fans are wearing #4 jerseys at the arena, and while there are some rumors, most are quashed with the thought of Ted. Ted is also on fire; he has developed a tough, heavy sinker and change-up and has been unhittable recently, improving to 18 wins as the Kids enter September in a tie for first with the Bishops. He makes no secret that 4 of those wins came from his little #4.)

Billy: The Saints and Warriors have cruised through the playoffs, St. Louis not even losing a single game and having the closest margin of victory be 10. The finals are set, New York and St. Louis. The trash talk abounds from fans and players alike, but one comment in particular sets down any thought that this will be a friendly rivalry. St. Louis fans are already upset with Chris's allegations of bias and homophobia in the front office but then Vickie Walsh, the coach of the Warriors, made these comments:

Vickie: You know, they are playing for a championship. We've come this far 5 times and had something go wrong each time- injuries, lucky shots, and the first 3 times we just got plain whipped. We are playing for more than a championship. Everyone on the team, gay and straight, knows what this means. We are the Rainbow Warriors, united with pride. Pride for our city, pride for our owners, and pride for our way of life. We've been united in this and that's why we've been that good even without the superstars or big names. And yet we are the villains, why? I think you know why and that's just wrong of the league to hide their pride, that half the league's players are lesbians, and even the lesbian managers are more than happy to ignore themselves. It's like we are in more of a competition on who can be in the closet more rather than who can win games. But we aren't here to lie down to Britney and Christina, we are here to show our pride to everyone. The Saints have gone on down the line and denied our existence, and now we are going to deny their championship.

Billy: Coach Walsh was fined $1000 for those comments, but it still hangs over the heads of the players here.

Cassie: It's about basketball, it's a game, a professional league, not some political cause. If they want a political cause, go to the White House. I'm here to play.

Filly: Them queers, they think it's always about them, that they have to rise above us. It's stupid for them to bring whatever hate there is for them and fuel it against us. We had Chris Van Allen here for half the year and I think we were better for it. We can't lose focus over some national issue.

Andy: I know Vickie Walsh very well, I coached her in the league's first season. She's a very proud woman, and I know she was just trying to motivate her players. She's had a rough road in New York; coming short so many times, she's just frustrated. I talked to her and I understand her comments, but there is no reason to try to make this the gay version of the 1980 Winter Olympics. We aren't the Soviets taking the ice against the U.S. It was irresponsible but we will just come out and do what we always do. It's a 7-game series, and it should be a treat for everyone to watch. I just hope the fans are civil and do not overreact to these spur-of-the-moment comments.

(We see the Saints getting ready for game 1 at home. Cassie is sitting in the back, alone, getting ready for the game. Bessie approaches her.)

Cassie: Hey, Bess, how you doing?

Bessie: I just wanted to see how you were doing. I know a lot has changed since the trade. You've changed a lot since the trade. You're healthier now, you went from being something you aren't to being in the middle, being happy but still promoting yourself for love of the game. But I know this magnifies things a lot. I've been there, I married a guy, for crying out loud. Don't give away a good thing. This series, I really see getting ugly fast. Don't get caught up, on or off the court. It's a great thing, really, and I know you will do in your heart what is right.

(The scene shifts to the game, and indeed it's a hard-fought, tough game, but a game that is clean, both teams wary of the controversy that was caused before the series. Chris dominates the post against Natasha but Cassie shuts down Sally on the outside and frees up Filly for 20 points. The game is tied with 5 seconds left. Natasha throws the ball long and dangerously close to New York's small forward. Cassie saves the ball and deflects it forward to Tamika, who lays it in at the buzzer to end the game 68-66 for the Saints. We see Cassie after the game with Minty at Cassie's apartment.)

Minty: Wow, I've never seen a play like that. I really haven't! That was awesome, it really was. I still don't know how you did it.

Cassie: Dumb luck. Really, dumb luck.

Minty: I don't know about that. I mean, you were flying out there.

Cassie: I know.

Minty: I have something to say.

Cassie: Yes?

Minty: I graduated early.

Cassie: Wow! Great, girl! I'm so happy for you.

Minty: I'm going back to Israel to play professionally this year. Maybe I can end up on a bench somewhere if I turn some heads at home.

Cassie: It's all right, I know this is really important to you. You have a beautiful home and a great league.

Minty: It's not just that. My team, they need a point guard, and they want to use one of their American slots to get one.

Cassie: You want me to move to Israel during the offseason?

Minty: Yeah. It's the best and richest team in the league, you would make as much as you do here.

Cassie: I know a lot of players do that, play overseas to make more money and keep their form in a full season. I'm just not sure, I've never really traveled much.

Minty: They do not care about the league there, we can live together and no one would notice.

Cassie: I'm not worried about that. Hell, one reason I would stay would be to come out.

Minty: Really?

Cassie: I'm sick of all the pulling and tugging. I need to be happy with who I am.

Minty: Would you come to Israel for me?

Cassie: I would be honored. I'll tell my agent to let them know I'm on my way. Would you do something for me?

Minty: Sure, what?

Cassie: If you could, be on the court after the last game of this series. I'll work it out with security. I want to show the world who we are, and that we are happy for it.

Minty: You want to come out after the series?

Cassie: Yes, I've given it a lot of thought, and it's time for me to be happy with who I am.

Minty: I'm proud of you, I really am. How are you going to tell Ted? I mean you were going to get married almost.

Cassie: Nahhh, I just wanted to find a way to tell him without hurting him. He really is a good guy. Retarded, but a good guy.

Minty: I noticed.

Cassie: I tried many times…hell, that's why I went with him, he's so clueless. But he is charming, I know many straight women who he would make very happy. I mean, he's even faithful. I was banking on him going after every groupie from here to Los Angeles, but, well, he is incredibly loyal, and very sweet, I don't want to hurt him. I think deep down he may know, but I don't want to make him angry, or think there is something wrong with gay people. What I did was wrong. I just don't want to make it worse. He is coming to town before game 6 if it goes that far. I'll tell him then.

Minty: If you need my help, just ask. I'm here for you, Cassie.

Cassie: No. I chose this, I'm going to get out of this myself.

Minty: Well, I'll be leaving right after the series, the season starts in October.

Cassie: I'll go with you.

Minty: You are great, you really are.

(The scene shifts to game two, this time things are boiling over.)

Cassie: Hey, Sally, you gonna be ready for a surprise this week?

Sally: Hey, what? You finally realized I look better when I'm not your twin?

Cassie: Shut up. (Drives to the basket and is fouled by Sally) Still can't keep your hands off me, can you?

Sally: Oh, stop dreaming and marry your baseball bat.

Cassie (guarding the inbound after making 2 foul shots): Hey, at least I have someone of something.

Sally: You haven't been to New York, have you?

Cassie: You get another clone of yourself to up your marketability? Don't think you are immune because you are on the Warriors. They may be more spacious but you can't tell me there aren't closets there.

Sally: At least I'm not getting married to a baseball player.

(Cassie fouls Sally hard, Sally gets up but is held back by her teammates. Chris charges at Cassie, but Tamika protects Cassie and starts a fight between the big girls. The fans are outraged and start chanting "beat the dyke" and throwing Twinkies on the floor. After the two are separated, Chris makes an obscene gesture at the fans and gets hit in the head with a Twinkie. She catches it and hands it to Cassie as she comes off the court.)

Chris: I believe this is yours.

(Cassie stares hard at Chris as Chris is led off the floor after being ejected with Tamika. Cassie uses it to go off and leading her team to a 10-point win, putting the Saints up 2-0 on the Warriors headed back to New York. Tamika and Chris were both suspended for game 3 for their fight. After the game Andy pulls Cassie into his office.)

Andy: I want to apologize for our fans tonight. There was no need for that. I know you're upset, I know you find homophobia very sensitive to you. I know you've done your best for the team but you do not need to accept this, nor do I want you to. You have a beautiful girlfriend, you can do very well. I know you really want to sell yourself, but what is it worth to just fuel fire against who you are? I know I haven't always been the most upfront of coaches, but the only thing you have when you're fat, and old, is your pride. I've seen that pride after the trade. I can see if you don't want to come back, but these people need some honesty right now.

Cassie: It's okay. I know you do not represent our fans, but I appreciate your words, you are a great man. I know you've changed, you are a forward thinking person. I'm going to come out after the season, just so you know. Hopefully as a champion.

Andy: I'm proud for you, don't worry. I'm proud for you and if anyone wants to throw a Twinkie at you they will have to go through me to do it first.

Cassie: Thanks, you really are a good man, but one thing. How did you find out about her?

Andy: Who? The Jew? Minty? No one dating anyone other than a Jew would ask to put chicken soup in the trainer's room. You never fooled me, Cass, I just didn't say anything. It's your privacy, and none of my business. It's about how you play, not who you fuck or what you do off the court. As long as you don't embarrass the organization or hurt your performance, I could really give a rat's ass about what you do in private.

Cassie: I still don't know how you found out I was gay in the first place, but it's all right.

Andy: I've been around a little. I remember how you used to guard Sally's dribble. I didn't even run my hand down my wife's leg like that on our honeymoon! Don't think I haven't hung my coat on a walking, talking closet before. Hell, you don't make much of a closet. When I coached the boys, wowie! You could barely imagine. You remember Oliver Maple? He was my most dedicated player ever, showing up 3 hours early to every practice and game. You wanna know why? You may know already.

Cassie: No, I've heard rumors, but well, the gender line is still around in the gay community. He was?

Andy: He'd show up early so the equipment manager could work on his equipment.

Cassie: But wait, on all your men's teams the equipment manager in the 80's was…(gasps)

Andy: My son. I never forgave him. I blamed Oliver, thought he was using him and denied he was gay, fired him as equipment manager and wouldn't even look at his picture until just before Chris got traded. Then I realized what was going on- this was no social choice, or some weirdness. This was as much a part of life as getting married. I called him for the first time in 15 years last week. I finally realized what was missing- it's not just tolerance, it's acceptance. I ran and hid behind the right to privacy for so long, I didn't speak to my own son until three weeks ago.

Cassie: How did he accept it?

Andy: Like a man. He's coaching high school in San Francisco now. He just laughed and told me, "It always took a blonde to get you into line, didn't it, dad?" and we talked all night. Look, I know my hiding just made things worse for everyone here, not just the team but the league. Look at Olivia. She's sold her soul more than anyone here. Sometimes I wonder if her being gay was more to be accepted by her players and she'd go back to being Mrs. Kyle. She's lost her head and that's a great shame, and now she's trying to bring it to the next generation.

Cassie: Hey, she's seen enough leagues come and go in her life. But yeah, she's going too far and I guess I'm the biggest part of that.

Andy: Do you know that I wouldn't be coaching women if it wasn't for her in the 70's? She was more dedicated than anyone I ever met. I was the one who insisted on inviting her to camp. Not like she would make the team- she didn't have the size. But to the men, I wanted to show them what dedication was, to play harder because you had to. We won the title that year up in Portland and if there was anyone who deserved a title ring for our performance, it was Olivia. That's why I joined this team when they joined the league. I could have stayed coaching girls in college- I got seven pro offers to go back to the guys, including two head coaching offers, but I stayed here because you women offer me something no boy's team could.

Cassie: The chance to be warmed up during practice? (giggles)

Andy: Very funny, Cassie. No, a shot to win in a league that cares so much about itself that the players can and do sacrifice their livelihood just to make sure it takes off. Anyone can build a team. It takes dedication to no end to build a league. You've done enough, don't be a fool. Be happy for who you are, and do your best, that's all I ever asked of any player I coached. Are you going to be heading overseas this year?

Cassie: Now how on earth did you find THAT out?

Andy: Easier still. Olivia got a call from your agent and wanted me to try and stop you, but I won't do that. Love is love. Just be careful and try not to get hurt.

Cassie: Israel is not a war zone.

Andy: Oh no, not from terrorists, from the European goons who play there. She may not know about Minty, but she does know that you can get clobbered by some European giant. We need you back here in shape next season.

Cassie: Thanks, coach. I mean for everything.

(The scene shifts to New York. The fans are louder than ever and the Saints are awestruck with the anger that they receive for the previous game's incident. On the road and with no Tamika they were easily handled in a 20-point loss. In game 4 Cassie finally showed her form on the road, but her 25 points were not enough, as Sally hit a three at the buzzer to force overtime which New York dominated. The 5th game came down to the wire as well, but a bad foul call pushed the Saints to the wall: a game-deciding foul with less than a second left and the Warriors down 2, a 3-shot foul that was clearly over the 3-point line. We now see Cassie back at home with Minty. Down 3-2 she seems ready to move on with her life.)

Minty: You ready today?

Cassie: You bet, I can't wait to be with you in Israel. I love you so much, I can't wait, really, I can't.

Minty: Well, I changed my tickets for Wednesday instead of tomorrow.

Cassie: Why did you do that?

Minty: Because.

Cassie: What?

Minty: I want to fly home with a champion. (Giggles) Besides, what's a girlfriend without a ring?

Cassie: (laughs) Awww.

Minty: You're awwing like a straight girl! Man, that reminds me, you going to tell Ted tonight?

Cassie: Yeah, he's pitching tonight. He's really been trying so hard that I think he will be relieved when I tell him. He can get on with his life.

Minty: Yeah, what is he gonna do that would change your mind?

Cassie: Nothing I can control.

Minty: What does that mean?

Cassie: Nothing. He won't do anything crazy.

Minty: Well, I'm here for you.

Cassie: I think I'll just call him to let him know, try not to make a fool of him to his face. I'll still be his friend. He is a good man.

Minty: I understand. You have a lot of class, you know.

Cassie: I'll show you how much I want to be with you tonight.

(We go to the ballpark. Ted is warming up for the night's baseball contest with the Bishops, in his road grays and blue hat. He is talking to his catcher.)

Ted: Hey, Tony, better tape up that hand, I'm going for it hard.

Tony: Take it easy, kid, this is a big game.

Ted: I know, it's been a month since I've seen Cassie and I made up my mind, I want to marry her.

Tony: So? Focus on the game man, this is important! First place!

Ted: Cassie said something to me. She said she'd marry me when we were closer to perfect. She's playing for a title, I'm going for first place...

Tony: You want to give a great outing to impress her into marrying you?

Ted: Yep.

Tony: Ok, but let's pace ourselves. We need you, we overworked the bullpen last night.

Ted: Don't worry, kid, I'll be good for you. I'm going to show Cassie how much I love her tonight.

(The game starts in the arena, and right off the tip there is something special in the air as Cassie nails a 3, followed by a steal and a dish to Tamika for 2 more points. Meanwhile, in the ballpark, Ted has struck out the side in the first inning. The word begins to spread as the games progress. Cassie racks up 15 points and 4 assists before leaving for a rest to a standing ovation at the 10 minute mark. Ted has struck out the lineup 1-9.)

Billy: Cassie McNeal is going bonkers here in the early going, and the word out of Chessman Field is that Ted Gruber is striking out everything in sight. That game's scoreless in the 3rd. Folks, this may be a huge day for the All-American couple.

(We go to the ballpark. Ted is in a huge groove and is now in the bottom of the 4th against the Bishops.)

Batter: Hey Teddy, I heard ya wanna score a homer with that basketball chica! Man, I heard some queer things about those girls, amigo!

(Ted winds up and throws a blistering slider which is in on the hands, causing a weak ground ball and a devastated bat. He smiles.)

Ted: I want to be perfect for my Cassie or I would have taken your head off, bastard.

(Back in the arena, Cassie returns with 5 minutes to play and rips off 6 straight threes leaving her with 28 points and 5 assists in the first half. Yet thanks to good team play, the Saints are only up 10. Cassie seems very loose and happy, and on defense she almost bounces to the dribble before stealing the ball, smiling all the way. Ted has gone 5 innings, no runs, no hits, no walks, no errors. Cassie returns from the half and has a hand in a 10 – 0 Saints run which brings the lead to 20 and her point total to 34 points and 7 assists with 8 steals.)

Billy: This is a night for young lovers, folks. Cassie is approaching a record and another triple-double, and the Warriors have no answer whatever, it seems. This is just unreal, as across town, Ted Gruber continues to hammer the Bishops. They are going to the 7th and the Kids are up 5-0, but the main thing here is that he has a perfect game through 6 with 11 strikeouts.

(Cassie keeps pouring it on and gets up her total to a triple-double: 48 points, 12 assists, and 10 steals. St. Louis has trampled the Warriors and now leads by 28 with only 3 minutes to play. The bench warmers are ready to come in, but first Cassie has 2 foul shots. She hits the first easily, then blows a kiss toward Minty, who is sitting near the front. She hits the 2nd shot to give her an even 50 points before doing a backflip to center court and running to the bench to a standing ovation. She is smiling hugely as she has this great achievement. Meanwhile, we see the baseball game go to the bottom of the 9th with Ted's perfect game still intact, while we see Cassie outside the locker room with Minty.)

Cassie: I did it, 50! I told you I was going to do it! I showed you! And tomorrow, I'll win game 7 for you to end it all. I'm so glad! I'm so happy.

Minty: I'm so proud. (Kisses Cassie.) You know, you are all signed to go to Israel, we have it all planned.

Cassie: I'm so excited! Nothing else can go wrong, nothing will stop us. I'll be so happy after tomorrow, I can't wait. Win or lose, I know I'll be happy.

(We go to the ballpark and see Ted one out away from a perfect game. The rest of the women in the locker room are watching on television while Cassie is outside.)

Announcer: This has been an incredible performance for Ted Gruber, folks, one out away from a perfect game. His girlfriend, Cassie McNeal, just broke a record of her own with a huge win in game 6 of the IWBL finals, and now Ted is going for the perfecto. Inside ball one, just missed with the slider. A great pitch that just missed, and man, Rogers showing nerves of steel by taking that pitch. Gruber goes back into his windup and a sharp ground ball down the line…foul! So he almost lost it all with a high fastball, but it just hooked foul. And the pressure must be immense, I wonder what is going through his mind. But he has been throwing the best stuff of his career tonight. The pitch... SWING and a miss. Strike two, and now this Bishops crowd is acknowledging their opponent, one strike away from a perfect game. Here's the pitch... sinker, low, did he swing at it? NO! A 2-2 count.

(We see Cassie and Minty about to share a kiss, Minty running her fingers through Cassie's blonde hair, as we hear the announcer.)

Announcer: And these fans are on their feet, and time is called. And they just showed Cassie's 50-point game on the scoreboard so the fans are acting like these are the Bishops going for the World Series here. I haven't heard it this loud for a long time. The pitch, FASTBALL ON THE CORNER, STRUCK HIM OUT, STRUCK HIM OUT, TED GRUBER HAS PITCHED A PERFECT GAME!!! Ted Gruber had one more K in him, 17 for the game! Let's go down to Michelle with Ted.

Michelle: Ted Gruber, biggest game of the season and you pitch a perfect game with 17 strikeouts. What were you thinking out there?

Ted: To tell you the truth, Cassie told me a while ago that she would marry me when I was perfect and she was perfect. I saw it on the scoreboard, she had her best game too. I just want to thank everyone, this was great. I gotta go to the arena! I have the ring in my locker, baby, YEAH! I can't believe I did that.

(Cassie turns away from Minty to walk back to the locker room but before she can get there, Filly comes running out of the locker room and drags Cassie inside.)

Filly: CASSIE! TED DID IT, Ted is perfect for you!!!

Cassie: What?

Tamika: Yo! Like, Ted pitched a perfect game! Congrats girl, you got a great man there, yo!

(Cassie looks confused but sees the highlights and Ted's proposal on the television.)

Filly: You devil, you! You scored fifty for him and he pitched a perfect game for you, (swoons) Awww! how romantic!

Cassie (confused): Yeah, yeah, it is.

(Cassie changes into her street clothes and tells Minty to wait outside but she is met by a crush of reporters, while Minty is trying to run through the crowd to meet her.)

Cassie: Excuse me! Leah! Excuse me!

Minty: Cassie! Move it, Yediot!

Reporter: What kind of feeling must it be to see Ted do that for you?

Cassie: Good. Leah!

Minty: Fuckers! She's gay, damnit! Tell them the truth, Cassie!

Fan: What the hell you talking about, faggot?

(Minty gets pissed and screams.)

Minty: BE WHO YOU ARE, CASSIE!

Reporter: So are you going to marry Ted Gruber after the season?

Cassie (Trying to push her way through to Minty) : Yeah, I guess. He is a perfect man now. LEAH!!!!

(Ted runs in, still in his uniform.)

Cassie: TED?!?! My God, what are you doing here?

Ted: Remember when you said you'd marry me when I was perfect? Well, we are perfect now. So (gets down on one knee with photographers popping and cameras rolling. Cassie sees Minty running into a cab and leaving disgustedly; she flips off the reporters as she climbs inside.) Cassie, will you marry me?

Cassie: (Cassie sees Minty leaving, but is then blinded by the flashbulbs. She puts on her best smile and giggles a little, but you see she's just about ready to cry) Of course I will. (loud hooting and cheers from the crowd). But I'll give you my ring tomorrow. Now can we have some room to go home, please?

(The two get into a limo. Inside, Cassie is nothing but nice to Ted, but deep down inside she is heartbroken. That night, with Ted fast asleep, she tries to call Minty but gets no answer on any of her phone numbers. She calls Tamika and she hasn't seen Minty all night. She then calls the airport and gets the time schedule: a flight to Kennedy leaving at midnight. She then gets it, realizing that Minty has left to go home to Israel. She is disgusted that she chose Ted, a lie, a stage prop for the good of the fans, over true love. She turns on the television and flips through the channels, there is an infomercial for closet organizers, and reruns of "I've Got A Secret" and "To Tell The Truth". She breaks down and cries, the she then turns off the television, almost laughing at its irony. She is distraught as she talks to herself.)

Cassie: Who am I? Why am I here? I don't even know why I'm here. I have my love, but I gave it up because I do well in a child's game. I'm heartbroken but can't do or say anything because this is the "happiest day of my life". I can't do anything. I'm frozen in time, aren't I? I tried to be who I am, but my own selfish need to be popular killed that. So here I am, Mrs. Ted Gruber, my true feelings irrelevant, my needs and desires not needed. So this is life as a celebrity, X gets the square. So now what? Play a bunch of parts to avoid who you are? (Sighs) What now, Cassie, what now? (runs her fingers through her blonde hair) Blondes have more fun, don't they? Lie down, be the puppet for all to see, for everyone to play with and take your clothes off? Life is a dollhouse, isn't it? I'm just the little blonde doll every little girl wants to be like, to play with, to take the clothes off and then stick it in a car with Ken to live happily ever after, the end. The end... what is the end but a beginning? But the greatness comes from the end- being "happy" with the knight in shining armor, the steroid-riddled bodybuilder; it's all a part of being a woman. My God, you are worse than Filly. You know that. You are terrible, dirty, a sinner. But tomorrow, you will be a winner, a great role model, the greatness herself, so goes the life. And who I am? If I knew, I would tell you. So what to do? It's game time, Cassie, be ready.

(We see Cassie in the locker room alone before the game. She is trying to hold back the tears. She really feels terrible, but yet she is there, taping up, putting her shorts on, getting her hair up in a ponytail, everything like it was just fine. But it isn't. She's trapped in a world that is dead to her, and the world she lived in has gone across the seas. Tamika sees this and walks in.)

Tamika: How's the Barbie doll?

Cassie: (Grumbling angrily) Very funny. (sighs)

Tamika (putting her arm around Cassie, trying to console her): It's okay, I understand it wasn't all your fault, you tried your best to make it right, I know you did. It was tough, but you have the whole offseason to make it right. I'm here to help. Leah called me from Kennedy this morning and left you a note. You know, you can still go to Israel, she kept your roster spot. She will forgive you if you let yourself be free of the stupidity and take charge of what you want to do. We have a title to win. Now, we need you. Let it go and work your way back, step by step.

Cassie: You're the only one who understands. You really are. You will always be my friend. I just need to be alone right now.

(The scene goes to Andy's final speech to the team in the locker room.)

Andy: I don't know about you, but this was our destiny from day one. From the moment we came out here, we said this was going to be the end. So all I ask is this, leave it all here tonight. All the pain, all the joy, all the girls and all the boys, all the love, all the hate, all you ever did for this moment, take it and LEAVE IT HERE! For all the people who cared about you, for all the times your parents took you to practice at 5 AM, for all the times the fans screamed your name, LEAVE IT HERE! If you can do that for 40 minutes, you will be champions. It all comes down to this. The Warriors have 5 years of heartbreak, but what we have is greatness, teamwork, determination, talent. 40 minutes, less than the commute to get here for most of you, is what we have left. Now let's play the best 40 minutes we have in us.

Filly: YEAH! Let's beat these dykes!!!

(Cassie can't stand it anymore and bangs her head against her locker, but disguises it like she was getting pumped for the game.)

(The two teams take the floor, the game starts, and the thunder rolls. St. Louis takes a 10-point lead at the break. Everything is nip and tuck; Cassie has 27 points, Filly has 20 of her own, and all 5 starters are in double digits. The same for New York. The game goes back and forth, basket for basket, play for play. A steal here, a foul there, a great play followed by a greater play. And more rolls in. Time goes away and the lead is down to 2 for St. Louis, but the game seems to be in their hands with 4 seconds left. They have possession…Cassie squares for the inbounds, seeing the fans waving in the stands, the empty chair in the endcourts where Minty was to be, Ted in the corner smiling gratefully. She looks around during the time out; there are all the signs, all the whitewash of middle America, the deafening noise, the signs reading "good night gays". The crowd unites in a "Let's Go Saints" chant; the crowd senses the championship, all she wanted, all she ever wanted... except for her love, her life, her desires, her being that she gave away for the good of a sold out arena and a long-haired baseballer. It all comes to her, she looks focused…staring directly at the lone empty seat in the building, where Minty should be and…)

Billy: It's all come down to this. All Cassie needs to do is get the ball inbounds and the championship goes to the Saints. McNeal with the ball, Van Allen guarding heavily to draw the violation, the Saints spread way out to avoid the intentional foul. McNeal with the inbounds…THREW IT AWAY!!!! Gave it to Van Allen…kickout, Harper…three! IT'S GOOD! New York has won! The Warriors are champions, ohhh my! Cassie McNeal had a clear inbounds and she gave it right to Van Allen, who nailed Harper with a great kickout, Harper hits a 3 at the buzzer, and the Saints' hopes at a title go swish down the drain. All the times she was a hero, and she ends up the goat. This crowd is in disbelief. A heartbreaker in St. Louis…the final score New York 80, St. Louis 79.

(We see Cassie walking off the court, the rest of the team dejected on the bench behind her while New York is celebrating in the end court. Andy is seen consoling Filly; he looks up and gives Cassie a smile of acceptance, almost as if to say, "you did the right thing". Cassie looks relieved; she's smiling and blowing kisses to the crowd. She almost skips off the court through the exit. Ted sees this and he just walks away with his arms in the air. The fans are stunned, but Cassie just jumps up and down in the tunnel. She sits in the locker room, grabs the champagne that was meant for them if she held onto the ball and got it inbounds, opens it, pours herself a glass alone, and smiles. And then we see her walking away, her sneakers left in the middle of the Saints logo on the locker room floor.)

THE END