Strong Offense and Defense

Description

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This is actually the story of a teenager who, after the devastating and spartan-like training of his crazy cool/Gong teammate, turned into a super amazing point guard that could blow up the skies even though he may seem low-key on the surface.

Also, Nie Chuan is Reese’s first love.

Nie Chuan: I’ve decided to promote you to becoming my best friend!

Reese: If I can be your best friend, it just means that you have no friends.

Nie Chuan: Hey! How could you say that! Do you know what it means to be my best friend?!

Reese: I’m sleeping.

Nie Chuan: It means that when I get married, my bride may not necessarily be her, but my groomsman must be…

Reese: The groom must be me.

Nie Chuan: What– you want to snatch my bride away?! You’re too inhumane!

Reese: Sleep.

Associated Names
One entry per line
強勢攻防
强势攻防
Related Series
N/A
Recommendations
I am a Chef in the Modern Era (1)
Could You Not Tease Me? (1)
I Confessed To You By Mistake (1)
Passionate Reversal (1)
The Subplot Of This Novel Is Peculiar (1)
Recommendation Lists
  1. (BL MODERN #2) TBR/Reading
  2. my youth is yours
  3. #Mustread
  4. SPORTS NOVELS
  5. gonna read

Latest Release

Date Group Release
07/30/24 ienij c82
07/29/24 ienij c81
07/21/24 ienij c80
07/20/24 ienij c79
07/17/24 ienij c78
07/10/24 ienij c77
07/05/24 ienij c76
07/04/24 ienij c75
01/25/23 Chrysanthemum Garden c78
01/09/23 Chrysanthemum Garden c76
11/22/22 Chrysanthemum Garden c75
08/11/21 Chrysanthemum Garden c74
08/03/21 Chrysanthemum Garden c73 part2
07/23/21 Chrysanthemum Garden c73 part1
07/16/21 Chrysanthemum Garden c72
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Review
16 Reviews


aiji
aiji
Aug 28, 2020
Status: c45 part1
Alright, after reading up to the latest chapter translated (Chapter 45), I'm officially dropping this novel.

Reason? Well... just not my mug of coffee, I guess... ?

... Hell, no! Let me drop my rant review here first. Please here me out. I would like to list down here what I liked and what I did not like about this novel.

Deciding to drop a novel after reading it for almost half of its total chapter count is not easy, especially if you're expecting a very fun read after watching/reading other stuffs for... more>> a change of pace. In this one, I'd say the premise looks promising. I mean, who wouldn't want a 'from weak to strong' theme, right? I'm a fan of this trope. But I can't seem to not notice some minor details that made me furrow my brows a little, thus affecting my overall enjoyment.

First, about the characters. Well, to be fair, the major characters were introduced well at the start. I liked how it was mentioned that the MC is a choco-holic here. That is one solid 'something' to like about him because that'll make him unique from the rest. But the sad thing is, that's all you can identify him with—well, aside from that he's 'short'. To be honest, the ML was given more description here than the MC (I mean like EVERY. SINGLE. CHAPTER!), and it frustrates me because I couldn't picture him in my head. The MC also loves to overanalyze things, especially if the ML is involved. It's like the thinking: "I wonder why he did those stuffs... oh, I know! Maybe he lik—oh wait, that can't be! (denied it but still blushed) " kind of stuff. I really don't like it if the emotion or the 'bud of love leading to romance' trigger flows so unnatural. Instead of 'dense', I would describe him as "an idiot with hyperactive mind". I can't count the number of times he 'unconsciously' look at the ML with 'indirect' admiration (again, with the ever abundant description of ML's hot body). So much for a dense protagonist...

Well anyways, for the second minor stuff, my mind just couldn't accept the fact that the MC doesn't know how to properly shoot aside from doing layups. I mean, he was trained basketball since childhood, and pretty awesome at dribbling at that, so why the on the spot coaching for shooting..? And also, I just can't overlook this—the fact that the ML and the rest is eyeing for him for the team. I mean, they are in USA..? Where I bet even middle-schoolers can do dribbling and do better at shooting..? To add, the team/school is one of the top when it comes to that sports!

Oh, I'm sorry. This really just bothered me. No racism here. I simply just can't understand it...

And finally, the crucial nail that led me for dropping this: after all the reading struggles, I realized I don't like the author's writing style. Besides the basketball terms and explanation, as a whole, I find the overall writing lacking in description and details, especially around the dialogues. The dialogue is just plain straight you won't feel a thing or simply it just don't make sense (especially the part the MC had with Carlo during the practice game xD). And I also don't like how the author just simply giving out the "feelings" and "emotions" of each character as though it was a statement instead of leaving us room to catch for cues and "feel" it ourselves. This is one problem I have with other authors as well, and it deeply frustrates me. I don't know if it's just because of the translation or what, though. Overused clichés are present here as well—which for me personally is not bad if executed well— but the problem here is that it's very predictable and, like I said, 'overused' that it becomes a little cringey.

Overall, I really didn't fully enjoy reading this. I guess 40-something chapter is good enough for me to call it quits and move on. This is really just not my style. No reason for me to continue. I know I'm being brutal but this is under a modern setting with no fantasy element, so my mind can't help but to approach and connect this close to reality, thus, expected it to be a little "realistic".

For casual reading, I guess this is worth-recommending since there's no deep and complex plot here. So if you find the premise interesting and feel like giving it a try, go ahead. <<less
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YoriMei
YoriMei
Mar 18, 2020
Status: Completed
MTL 'd the entire thing after I got hooked and I don't regret it. It's a fantastic basketball story and the MC was my personal favorite because he's adorable. ML and MC's interactions were hilarious and I loved how they had both the comedic and serious moments. This story really is prominent on basketball but watching the boys strive towards the championship was refreshing to see.

the annoyances are there but minor. Sometimes there's a break in immersion due to the setting, it's a Chinese story but set in USA so... more>> the usage of Chinese slang for American characters makes you pause. It's reading a white guy say "give us face vs have some dignity"/"lights candle in my heart" instead of "press F in the chat boys" kinda thing. Also Reece basically is the mentor for MC in basketball which makes sense, but sometimes I disliked the way even the coach has absolutely nothing to say in regards to MC and leaves it all to Reece. The way they give the responsibility of guidance all to ML makes him seem all knowing in basketball.

overall it's a great story, one that gets 5 stars even through MTL and I can't wait for the translation. I highly suggest giving this a shot even if you don't like basketball. MC's cute, ML's teasing is hilarious and they're cute together. I will say ML is pretty forceful and a bit of a bully towards MC (in a childish "pulling pigtails of the person you like way) due to changes from censorship and it's a pity that a lot of details is locked via the physical copies (such as Reese's pov). Since we have a third person perspective and understand that it's because ML is absolutely gone on MC, it can veer towards "cute" but for some can be dubious or forceful so take heed. <<less
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tired
tired
Jul 12, 2019
Status: Completed
I mtl because I couldn't wait lol. It's pretty easy to mtl.

Over all super fluffy with some hot make out session but no actual smut. MC is adorable. ML is doting but ... more>>
Spoiler

somewhere around chapter 95 (I don't remember it might be before) he does force MC into smut

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otherwise he's okay.

Plot was kinda stereotypical lol. MC finds opponent and continually grows basically no obstacles that he can't overcome in the next 3 chapters. Everything is at a fast pace cuz it is basketball.

Supporting characters were neh. They appear and do stay but not really much care on them except for MC's Chinese roommate. That dude is a good bro.

I guess this is more of an easy read if you're in the mood sorta thing. <<less
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Birdy
Birdy
Apr 23, 2020
Status: c36 part1
I was really hesitant to read this since I'm not fond of basketball and I don't know whether I would be able to incite interest while reading BUT WAIT!? I already bought basketball ball and reserved court downstairs to play! That aside, I really like it that I'm willing to camp for updates kekeke So if you're like me, I'm tempting you to click chapter one and get hooked! I'll eat my keyboard live if you don't like it.
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Delorra
Delorra
Aug 24, 2019
Status: Completed
MTL this one years back. It was already good that way. But the translation really brings out the comedy!!! Totally recommended, even for non-basketball fan! Most of the lingo went over my head but I still enjoy the book very much!
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Jhunajane
Jhunajane
Aug 14, 2020
Status: Completed
This is one of my favorite sports yaoi story.

My mind was working reading through all those descriptions and mechanics that made me an audience to that spectacular game play. I greatly appreciates the author who had done a wonderful job in explaining and describing the whole scene to us, spectators, also to the translator who guided us through it all.

While I was reading this book, I had a smile on my face. I loved how the MC reacted each time. It was unlike of all. His indifference to the... more>> importance of basketball but naive enough to go through it all is hilarious and striking to the heart. His indifference is like OUR typical, normal indifference and not the cool type indifference that made me appreciate his character more. He was real. I felt that. His development after that was well expected and at the same time a surprise. His reaction truly is the highlight for me in this book. Especially their romance... Its so serene and peaceful that it made me so jealous that I want to find my own.

I really LOVE this. ❤️? <<less
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Changingchangie
Changingchan
Aug 02, 2020
Status: c43 part2
This is currently one of my favorite BL slow burn romance-comedy/sports novel. It does not start off with anything dark but it gives you the feeling of warmth and just pure happiness while reading. The way how slow and idiotic Nie Chuan in realizing Reece Reddington's feelings are just funny.

All in all. I would wait for this to be finished since this is a good novel.
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CandyApples
CandyApples
Apr 21, 2020
Status: --
I'm a sucker for the sports genre, so it was cool to see a BL with a bit of a sports focus. There is one thing that annoyed me though, and idk if it was just the MTL but ... more>>
Spoiler

I had faith in our adorable MC and ML to have a healthy, consensual relationship, but the ML does not obtain consent before their first time. Honestly triggering bc he should have waited for the MC to be ready. Since this is such a modern novel, I think it should have been different. Even if you are in a relationship, you still need clear verbal consent. It would have suited the novel more (and been a lot cuter and a lot less r*pey) if the ML stopped when the MC said no, and made the MC ask for it instead. I'm actually tempted to write fanfiction where that happens ngl.

[collapse]

Asides from that, it was definitely worth the read. <<less
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Front Row Raisins
Front Row Ra
Dec 20, 2019
Status: Completed
Super duper cute!!! My little rotten boy heart was very full after finishing this! Minimal angst (except for a few chapters around the 90s) and lots of fluff. However, be warned, this is very strongly a book about basketball. If you can’t get into that, this book will probably bore you pretty quickly. But don’t worry! A lot of the character progression happens while the characters are playing, and I find that it’s always more interesting than just a recap of the playing. As for the basketball action itself, I... more>> think it is written very well, and had me very engaged and on the edge of my seat as I read. The action was fluid and gripping, which surprised me, as I figured that I would probably skip some of the basketball scenes. Nope! I was hanging on to every word!

The characters... they were pretty good overall. I especially liked how the character’s growth wasn’t limited to just the MC and ML, but also their teammates, and even their opponents! Still, I think the universe did revolve around our two boys a little much (at least it brought about some very cute and romantic scenes). The side characters definitely felt more like afterthoughts sometimes, or were just there to advance the plot. The MC is a little bit s*upid, but in his cute, weird little way. He was like a little innocent lamb the whole way through and I felt a strong urge to pinch his cheeks quite often. The ML was very domineering, not usually my favorite type of gong, but it is extremely obvious how much he cares for our family’s MC, and he does some extremely good sweet talking, so I can’t complain much about him. The one thing I will say, is that he goes a little dub-con at one point, and then it’s not really addressed... That’s definitely my biggest complaint. Luckily, it’s only really an issue once. If you move past that, he really is a super caring, super supportive, super doting gong who would never hurt his little shou (unless of course it was from over exertion during bed activities).

On the topic of bed activities, if you’re looking for something spicy, maybe look somewhere else. It does very obviously state that they engage in physical activity, but nothing really gets shown except for some passionate kissing. I do think that it is made up for in sugary scenes, though (a single dog loves his dog food). T-T

At the end of the day, it was no masterpiece, but I had a lot of fun reading it, and was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed it in the end. Plenty of fluff to fuel me, and some great basketball action. What else could I ask for in a good casual read? Definitely will read the translation when it’s finished. Definitely will recommend. Definitely will read again. <<less
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Starboyhuangs
Starboyhuang
Dec 04, 2021
Status: c94
This author likes to use second-hand embarrassment for comedic purposes and it's literally so painful. Can't even remember how many times I've dropped this novel every time MC goes through something embarrassing.

The main leads. I feel like they don't really have that much of a chemistry or tension. ML is the type that likes to 'bully' the MC by giving sarcastic remarks all the time. And sometimes they even catch me off guard by how insulting they are. I don't know if I'm just soft but I don't know how... more>> MC could even have feelings for the ML.

Also, regarding that, I feel like MC's feelings towards ML feels kinda forceful and it may be more of admiration than love. It just doesn't feel natural at all. Or maybe I'm just biased and doesn't want him to like the ML at all. My favorite characters are definitely Everyone else except for ML lol. Idk. <<less
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aubruh
aubruh
Jul 15, 2021
Status: --
although the sports part is really well-written this novel honestly seems a bit offensive. Idk the main character is annoying and so is the ML and the characters are careless with their words lol
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Aone1989
Aone1989
Jun 23, 2024
Status: c74
Ahhh this novel was so well-done! Initially I was quite hesitant because it did feature so many terms and strategy for basketball that I honestly did not care for but the development of the MC's skills and his relationship with the ML was so nicely written. The slowburn was well worth the wait! The tension buildup was just the right amount that you wouldn't get impatient nor would you be left unsatisfied by the results. I wish there would be more updates coming!

Thank you to the translators. Kudos! 👏
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GhostlyGuest
GhostlyGuest
Nov 13, 2022
Status: Completed
Ok! Yes, I am late to give my thoughts on this novel but that's fine.

Strong Offense and Defense is about a young boy who is one day picked up by his school's basketball team and then embark on a path he never dreamed of stepping forth in.

This is a sport novel, I'm in love! And the MC is just so adorable no? He's a straight and reckless boy who isn't afraid of heart breaks. The author made full use of this fact to show off the ML's patient in pursuing... more>> MC. Oh how I love it when MC finally fell hard for ML, but was too scared of being rejected (this is a first!) to confess.

[I say people, if you like some one, just go ahead and confess. No matter the outcome, remember, it is not fixed. Some people have a change of heart when another confessed their feelings. And even if your target rejects you, its easier to move on afterwards rather then mulling over it years and years to come. Regret would only follow if you dont speak ya?]

The sport part of this novel is thrilling! I felt like watching an anime instead of reading lines of word!

So, with my patient of 2/10 I struggle a lot to finish a novel and its not because there's something wrong with said novels ok? It's just me. Anyway, while reading, several times I would wonder off thinking, "Ok, this is my last chapter, I'll come back to it after a while!" But the intense play of the sport pulled me in so that, by the time I looked up. It was the last chapter...

I MTL most parts near the end so I cant exactly say that I 100% understood it but I like this novel.

I say, don't expect any explicit smut though people! Sad but still go and enjoy the two's wholesome relationship with lots of added vinegar from the fame of being sportsmen. And lots of kisses. <<less
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priestisqueen
priestisquee
May 07, 2021
Status: c65
We need more sports danmei please 😩. Love between two teammate ahh sooo cute 😩. By sport I mean literal physical sport not e-sports lmao
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MisakiAkihiko
MisakiAkihik
May 29, 2023
Status: --
This is one of my favorite novels! I'm telling you if you like just kind of shounen ai vibes, into sports as well as need a break from heavy novel. This is the novel for you! I'm telling you I have reread it maybe more than 10 times already and why I'm just commenting right now? Well I'm just about to reread it again🤣
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someonewithemptyhands
someonewithe
Dec 27, 2020
Status: --
god, every time I read one of this author novel's I feel like that my emotions was going to be to explode, her discrinig of sports is really exicted me And it impresses me to some extent that I also want to do the sport in a crazy way that the author wrote. I really admire her writing style. She satisfied readers emotion very well. I mean in many novels I think that somepart is lacking and I want something else happend But in this novel, the author transfix... more>> you with her writing style and you havent enough time to expect anythings. I cant say anythings about the story cause im still stuned. Many people here are otaku and yes when you read, this novel remined you kuroko no basket but even though I like this anime very much I still didnt like that kuroko hasnt the main ability and always depends on someone else but here the MC is someone that even could win against most powerfull person even it was for the help of ML but his abilty is the main reason so I like this novel more. I in the whole novel I really waited for MC progress and want to see how can he win each matches, its really exciting and when I read the parts that ML coaxed him and help him to improve I fel warm in my heart. I like author ML's type very much they like MC to the point that they gave him their life and they are so yandre and excelent but doing their best so MC doesnt feel unhappy . Its really my cup of tea

so you should read this amazing novel and enjoy it. But remember that its a sport novel and most of the content is about sport. <<less
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