In the spring of 2007, Darin Mason posted an ad in the local newspaper for the upcoming tryouts for his AAU team, the KC Pumas.



Melanie Shamet had been searching for a more competitive team for her 9-year-old son, Landry. He was already a phenom in baseball, as a pitcher and a shortstop, but basketball piqued his interest. He had loved the game since he learned to dribble and shoot from his grandfather, Dennis, at the age of two.



The Shamets were known around Kansas City for their athleticism. When the tall, lanky kid walked into the gym, Mason instantly recognized him. Landry bore a strong resemblance to Melanie. After watching the fourth-grader warm up for 15-20 minutes while shooting, dribbling and passing in the three-man weave, Mason was stunned by Landry’s raw talent. He walked over to Melanie and offered a bold prediction.



“You’re not going to like what I’ve got to say,” Mason warned Melanie.



“What do you...