After amphetamine abuse causes Nathan to collapse on the court, Whitey posts a sign on the gym door which informs the team that "Basketball [is] canceled until further notice". He wants the team to think about why they play the game in the first place. He wants them to realize it's for the love of the game, not to beat their father's high score record. The team is furious, and so are the parents, but Whitey is determined to make his boys focus.

Meanwhile, Lucas has more on his mind than canceled practices. His relationship with Brooke is just beginning and he's caught up in the excitement of a new romance. He has a conversation with Haley explaining why he chose Brooke over Peyton. "Peyton is too hard", he tells her. Haley's response is biting. "Unlike Brooke, who I understand is nice and easy." Lucas takes offense to that and tells Haley that Brooke is fun and honest, and unafraid to be herself. Plus, she's not covered head to toe in issues.

Meanwhile, Dan is shocked to find out about Nathan's drug abuse. Since his attempt to reconcile with Deb fell flat, he uses the reservation to a resort he'd planned with Deb, as a bonding weekend with Nathan. But what Dan still doesn't understand is that Nathan took the drugs because of the pressure his father puts on him to succeed. Dan continues to push Nathan, this time during a game of golf, where Nathan explodes and makes a scene in front of everyone, although Dan begs him to keep his voice down.

Since Karen left, the Café has seen a reduction in clientele and Deb is taking it personally. In order to bring in more customers, she and Haley decide to have an open mic night. Haley tries to make some fliers, but her artistic skills leave much to be desired, and she goes to Peyton for help. The growing friendship between Peyton and Haley blossoms as Peyton helps Haley with the artwork.

The Open Mic Night turns out to be an unparalleled success. Lucas' teammate Jake comes to the Café with his guitar and his infant daughter, Jenny, who until now, had been a secret from everyone except Lucas. Lucas told Jake that he shouldn't be ashamed of Jenny, and he shouldn't try to hide her. Jake took Luke's advice, and exposes both his daughter and his musical talent to all of Tree Hill.

The other surprise of the Open Mic night is an appearance by Gavin DeGraw. Persuaded by Peyton, the rocker makes a free appearance and plays the theme song for the show.