Officer Connelly pulls Marcus out of class. As his mother is signing him out for the day, Jefferson tells her that Marcus is going to learn from his mistake, pick himself up again, and inspire other kids in the neighborhood. He tells Marcus that he is lucky to have his mother supporting him. Ms. Torres meets Marcus and his mother at the DA’s office, and Marcus signs the plea deal. He tells Eddie about it the next day at school.

During practice, Coach Casey tells Marcus that the principal, Ms. Randolph, wants to speak to them both. They go to her office, and she says that, due to his conviction, Marcus is banned from any extracurricular activities during his remaining time at school, including the basketball team. Both Marcus and Coach Casey are upset and bring the news to the rest of the team; Marcus apologizes. X notes that “at least [he’s] man enough to stand up for it” (136).

Marcus and his mother and sister still plan to attend Senior Night, an event to celebrate the parents of members of the basketball team before the game. In English class, Marcus reads his essay. On his way out of school, Jefferson gives Marcus 12 dollars so he and his family can get to and from Senior Night by cab.