Pánico en la cancha

*Panic on the Court* (Pánico en la Cancha), by Adolf Quibus, is a sports mystery novella set in professional basketball. The protagonist, Mike Harper, is a disabled former player turned sports columnist for the Chronicle who covers a crucial championship game between the Los Angeles Tigers and their rivals, the Treng. Harper interviews the Tigers' star center, Tim Holmes—an old friend—before the match, sensing something troubles him. During the second half, as Holmes dominates play with multiple baskets, he suddenly collapses on court. Harper discovers Holmes has been murdered: poisoned by a tiny dart containing rapid-acting venom administered during the crowded game. Detective Sergeant Kirc confirms the assassination while the hundreds of spectators remained oblivious. The narrative concludes with Harper learning that Holmes's wife Rossie has responded with disturbing emotional detachment, prompting concern from authorities.