The story revolves around Ray, a struggling basketball coach who works at a shoe store. He is preparing his team, including Jeremiah, for the Jingle Ball Jam tournament with a $10,000 prize. However, Ben, a former rival and now a coach for the Milwaukee Bucks, returns to town and steals Ray's team.
Ray is left with no team and no money, and his girlfriend, Tanya, kicks him out of their apartment due to his financial struggles. In a desperate attempt to win the tournament and the prize money, Ray recruits a team of senior citizens, including Jimbo, Henry, and Frank.
Despite their age and initial struggles, the team comes together and faces off against Ben's team in a three-on-three game. With the help of new shoes and glasses, they manage to win the game and earn $10,000. The story concludes with Ray's newfound success and a potential job opportunity as an assistant coach for the NBA team.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. The Jingle Ball Jam tournament has a grand prize of $10,000.
2. Ray, a coach, is working at a shoe store to pay his rent.
3. Ray has not been paid for coaching his team and is in financial difficulties.
4. Benny is a coach for the Milwaukee Bucks.
5. Benny is putting together a team for the Jingle Ball Jam tournament.
6. Ray's relationship with his girlfriend, Tanya, is strained due to his financial situation.
7. Tanya gives Ray an ultimatum to pay the rent or leave.
8. Ray's team is playing against Benny's team in a three-on-three game for $10,000.
9. The game is being played at a local court with poor lighting.
10. Jimbo, a player on Ray's team, is 70 years old and has trouble seeing the hoop.
11. Frank, another player on Ray's team, is given a pair of Jordans to wear, which improves his game.
12. The game is intense, with Ray's team trailing by five points at one point.
13. Jimbo suffers an ankle injury and is unable to continue playing.
14. A new player, M, joins Ray's team to replace Jimbo.
15. The game ends with Ray's team winning, and Benny congratulates them on their victory.
16. Air Smith, a famous basketball player, is in the audience and offers Ray a job as an assistant coach.
17. Ray's girlfriend, Tanya, reconciles with him and offers to move back in together.
18. Ray's team is given $10,000 as a prize for winning the game.