Basketball Books

When I started coaching girls basketball (3rd-9th graders) 3 years ago this was the second book I picked up. Now I have about 35 books and 20 videos but I use this as the central reference for my playbook and training manual in coaching fundamentals. Some of the skills may be too advanced for younger kids but they will grow up and adapt to it when they return to you a little older and better skilled thanks to this reference. It should be used in conjunction with the videos by the author (available also from Amazon). If Nancy Lieberman-Cline ever sponsors a clinic I will be on the first plane to get there. As a player-coach-teacher she is the best for girls basketball!

A really good book for a select audience. For younger players or those not motivated enough to focus their energy and effort at this level, I highly recommend the two companion VHS tapes on offense and defense/rebounding. However, if you are a middle or high-school player who really wants to raise your game, you can't go wrong here.

I have been coaching girls basketball for the last several
years and am often looking for suitable books to give my
players to help them work on their own to further develop
their skills. This is the best book I have seen for a junior
high or high school player. I covers every aspect of the game,
not just skills, but also physical training.

Being a girls basketball coach, this book is a very beneficial tool for helping young women understand the game more completely. The variety of drills make it easy to design an off season workout schedule. This book is a must buy for anyone serious about the game, whether coach, player, or a serious fan!

I love this book! I think it has great drills and advice in it. It helped me out a lot in my basketball career. If you are serious about basketball and you are a women you should buy this book!!!!

THis was a gift for my son, but he really liked it. Very useful for his coaching.

THERE'S A PLAY FOR EVERYTHING IN THIS BOOK. REGARDLESS OF THE SKILL SET OF YOUR TEAM, YOU CAN FIND PLAYS THAT WILL WORK.

I was looking for new plays and ideas..Got a lot of great ideas

Whether you are a coach (at any level) or a casual fan, this book has something for you. Page after page of plays guarantee you'll find something that works for you.

From the basics to the complex, from inbounds plays to 5-man motion, this is a great way to build your knowledge base of how basketball is and should be played.

Pretty soon you'll even start recognizing the same plays run by your favorite team the next time you watch a game on TV. Hey, how can you go wrong for $15?

Play hard, have fun.

Excellent concise book with plenty of ideas to suit any type of team you coach. Great ideas and easy to read and understand.

The author gives credit to Kansas State University's ONLY #1 nationally ranked basketball team while making the camaraderie and spirit of the team come alive. As a bonus and a real step-back in time, she shares what college life was like 50 years ago on the Manhattan, KS campus. (I can attest to that as I was there, too.) She dated and married one of the starters and knows his teammates. A very good read - even for non-sports fans!

I loved hearing about "teamwork" and the innocence of those times. The underlying story of black/white players was also very interesting. I wish I'd lived in those great times when ball players played because they loved the game, not the $$.

[Matuszak] achieves the depths and heights of team chemistry during a time of innocence and morality. In a language of nostalgia the images of integrity, class and achivement are refreshing! How wonderful to have lived and better to have known the outstanding players of this book. How nice to be able to write about the game in it's glory day!

Matuszak managed to write about a subject I don't know or care anything about (nor do I have any ties with Kansas State) so very touching and humorous I couldn't put the book down. I laughed and cried both while reading this wonderful account of a different time indeed; a treat to be reminded of the "good old days" which were filled with respect, honesty, integrity, etc. Unfortunately many of these great traits have been forgotten, or never learned, by the players of today. Lots of good personal stories filled with love and humor.

What a wonderful book! Lots of insight into the KSU basketball team and the wonderful stories behind the incredible relationships that made this team click! I was particularly interested in the underlying story of the roommates Boozer and Matuszak who were black and white -- long before Gale Sayers and Brian Piccolo!

This book also encouraged me to learn more about the All American team selection process -- and the use and misuse of the "honor".

The K-State basketball story is really something...the makings of a movie!

I started watching basketball in 1990 and always looked forward to Mr Hollanders book right before the season started. However, the 1998 handbook seems to be the last one that has ever come out. I've searched and searched and the 98 season appears to be the last one. Does anyone know what happened.

I like this book because it's about basketball and I love basketball. This book teaches you a lot about rules in baketball and it teaches you about what it's like in the real NBA and it tells you a lot about some of the best basketball players in the world. I really haven't read this book I'm just typing this because I wanted to!!!!!!

I think the series of books are great. I live for them every year at this time of year. I wish they had gone ahead and done one for last year's truncated season. When will this year's book come out???

Hollander and Compton's book is THE BIBLE for all true NBA fans. Casual followers need not apply - this is the one that gets down to the level of detail reserved for us hoops-crazed junkies. Props to the authors for this ongoing series of frankly written, insightful and often hilarious synopses of every team and player in the league. Here's hoping the new version comes out soon, and if the 1999 edition is released, I'll snap that up too!

I have had Zander Hollander's book since 1986. It has proven to have the most complete coverage on a per player basis. It's greatest strength lies in the individual player profiles that it provides. The combination of analysis of a player's skills (though I know there will be disagreements as I myself do not always agree with the assessments) plus career statistics of the individual player provide individualized information that only few magazines and other books have. Most magazines have team profiles with only a few words or phrases dedicated to the not-so-famous players. Mr. Hollander allows us followers of the NBA to have more information not just on the stars but also on the mid-level and bench players. He also includes details outside of basketball, and his writing style mixes factual reporting with humor. My only complaint about the book is that it goes to publication a bit too early and is mostly outdated as far as the pre-season trades and player movements are concerned (though I understand the publication requirements). All in all, this is my favorite basketball book in my 15 years of following the NBA. Unfortunately, however, he seems to have stopped publication after the 1998 edition. There was no book for the lock-out shortened season as well as for this past 1999-2000. Hopefully Mr. Hollander will again produce this book for this upcoming season.

Dharma Demons is a fantastic book and spins a story to which many can relate. It has many sides, dealing with sports and action, the wit of youth, and most importantly growing up. It's a fun book to read, its neither too long nor too short, and leaves a mark- for the better- on any who reads it. I would recommend this book to anyone.

As a substitute teacher, this was my savior! The kids were taken with the story line and characters instantly. Each time I'd begin the book with a new group of children, I'd have to leave my copy in the classroom so the students could take turns finishing it. The story is an excellent read-aloud for the younger ones in lower school, as well as for the enjoyment of young teens---

This is a really cool basketball book. Lots of exciting games and some good tips on playing too. Except I hate the part about the girl playing better than the boys.

Richard

The book is so good. I couldn't put it down until I finished it.
-Tori, 4th grade

I loved this slim volume. Once the story gathered momentum, I coudn't put it down. It's a beautifully crafted tale, rich and excitng. It might be aimed at adolescents, but this 58 year old would recommend it to people of all ages.

In addition to its engaging story, it has many life lessons to teach--about following the crowd or being your own person, about owning up after you've blown it, about being a team player or a lone star, about staying in the process versus focusing on the outcome, about how to treat a friend.


I'd also recommend it as a gift for a pre-adolescent child or grandchild, since it combines some good tips on basketball with some equally good tips on growing up--all wrapped in an exciting story

Lisa Leslie has really created a great read for basketball followers. She tells things truthfully and lets the reader know her feelings about certain issues. I really enjoyed this one!!!

I loved this book because it is like having a conversation with Lisa Leslie herself in which she tells you everything you ever wanted to know without actually having to ask her anything. It's like talking to a friend who just confides in you. I have always admired this woman, but know I really feel like I know her and admire her even more. It's not like I was in the dark about who she is, she projects her personality and values very clearly, however, with this book, one gets to discover how she got to be who she is and why she has gotten so far. I hope one day I get to meet her in person because she is very dear to me as a person, a woman, a player...she is a great role model to have. So go get a copy of this book. You won't regret it.

I am a HUGE Sparks fan. I love Lisa Leslie as well. The book was an eye opener. She is a very complex, shy person that turns in to a basketball playing machine on the court. The title is perfect! A must read for any young girl with professional sports dreams.

You don't have to be a sports fan to be inspired by Lisa Leslie's incredible story. This book takes you far beyond Lisa's athletic achievements -- which are substantial. It gives you a tremendous insight into the real person behind the extraordinary athlete, an extremlely compelling lady and a true role model.

Kudos to Lisa and collaborator Larry Burnett. Five Star PLUS!!!

Even as a non-fan of the WNBA, this story really hit home! LL's different, sometimes heartbreaking stories were really an eye-opener into the life of someone who is constantly facing opposition-- LL is a true inspiration!

I was appalled but utterly intrigued when she recollected the story about her own SISTER trying to steal Lisa's identity!

From an athletic role-model to a stunning fashionista, LL has been through it all and I'm glad that she joined forces with Larry Burnett to create a great read!

Ms. Lyons has written a sensational book that will inspire and uplift all readers regardless of age, gender or ethnicity.

This is a beautifully written book that focuses primarily on Floyd Delaney's relationship with his son, Eddie. In addition, Starling Lyons creates wonderful subplots that include Eddie's closest friends, the NEATE crew. Richly steeped in African American history and culture, this relatively short book covers quite a bit of ground. Young readers, whose growing pangs and everyday challenges are reflected in this work, will enjoy reading such an interesting narrative that provides important life lessons, powerful insight into African American history, and great entertainment--all at the same time. Well done!

EDDIE'S ORDEAL is the fourth in the NEATE series, a collection of books about a group middle school aged friends, who form a club. In this story, Eddie Delaney has finally found his niche playing basketball on his junior high school team. He is good enough to play as a starter and loves all the added attention he receives as a result of being a star player. Surprisingly, it is the extra attention from his dad, not his peers, that means the most to him. Eddie's father, a successful attorney with high expectations for his son, is a bit detached. But basketball seems to be a common interest that the father and son share, and as a result, they are spending more time together than ever before. That is until Eddie brings home his mid-term grades and his parents force him to quit the team and focus on his studies. In addition to losing the opportunity to play ball, he loses some of the closeness he had been sharing with his dad. Eddie's friends (the other members of NEATE) decide to help him by trying to figure out why Mr. Delaney is so hard on his son. What they discover may rekindle the familial bonding in the Delaney household and help the father and son understand one another better.

Kelly Starling Lyons has written a book that is very well suited for the target age group. The characters in the book are realistic and their lives and experiences will mirror the lives of many of the children who read this book. Children will be able to relate to the frustration that Eddie and his friends feel when they are simply misunderstood by the adults in their lives. In addition, Lyons did an excellent job integrating historical information into the story without taking away the plot's contemporary relevance. The title, EDDIE'S ORDEAL, seems a bit melodramatic in the context of the story, but isn't melodrama what middle school is all about?

Reviewed by Stacey Seay
of The RAWSISTAZ™ Reviewers

Eddie's Ordeal was a wonderful story that explored the relationship between a black father and son. Thirteen-year-old Eddie and his dad have trouble relating. They come from different eras. A bad grade sends them even farther apart.

Eddie's friends try to build a bridge to reconnect father and son. But it's up to Eddie and his dad to cross. This story was a heartfelt tribute to the growing pains parents and children navigate and the important bond between black fathers and sons. As a black man, I enjoyed reading a story that portrayed African-American characters as multifaceted people, complete with strengths and flaws, instead of stereotypes. This is a great addition to the canon of black children's literature.

The fourth book in the NEATE series, Eddie's Ordeal is a novel recommended for young adult readers and is about thirteen-year old Eddie Delaney, an African-American boy who loves his father but feels driven too hard sometimes. Eddie enjoys being the starter on the basketball team and gets good grades, but whe he brings home a D in language arts, everything changes. His father forces him to quit the team, and his relationship with his parent takes a very bad turn for the worse. His friends try to help him discover why his dad is so tough on him, and in the process Eddie learns something very important about his father - something that will change his life forever. A moving and dramatic story about facing the challenges of coming of age, and the importance of family bonds.

I was already a huge fan of Rebecca Lobo before reading this book. 'The Home Team' gives you a look into the lives of Rebecca and Ruthann Lobo. It's such a real look at how their lives truly are and how much they love each other. After reading this book I was blown away by the courage both of these amazing women have shown in thier lives.

I had the opportunity to meet the Lobos at a seminar, and they are as congenial in person as they appear in this fantastic book. Each personal chapter of this narrative made me feel like I was almost a part of the Lobo family. I liked reading about how Rebecca and her brother and sister grew up, what it was like to be part of a team as tight as the Huskies, and how the family dealt with RuthAnn's cancer. I have read this book over and over, and my mother and grandmother both love it as well. It is definitely worth sharing!

Very well written and inspiring. Surviving with strength and heart to carry her family, Mrs. Lobo is amazing! Rebecca's tales of life and the heart ache of her moms struggle with breast cancer. They stuck together and beat it out! WAY TO GO MRS. & MS. LOBO!!!

I really love this book! I did not want to put it down. A couple of reasons I love the book is because now I know she was a normal child once and she did'nt always play basketball. I also liked it because her mom talked about her life. Now I know they had problems just like any other family does.

This book is a must read for all WNBA fans. Rebecca Lobo's life is revealed in many aspects, that of her point of view and her mother. It talks about many issues such as Ruthanne's struggle with breast cancer and how the family dealt with it. As a 15 year old girl, reading is not one of my favorite pastimes. When I heard of a book about my idol Rebecca Lobo, I decided maybe I should give reading a try. I finished the story in a total of two days and found myself waking up in the middle of the night wanting to know what was going to happen next. It is an extremely moving book in which I fould that it was very easy to relate to. As a basketball player, some of Rebecca Lobo's theories such as playing basketball to relive stress and cope with problems I use also. It gave a new perspective to why I am two different people a hustler and leader on the court and a shy and proscinator off of it. Athlete or not, this book will get you moving. It will leave the message in your heard that anything is possible and it will help you to get out and reach that goal that you have been striving for.

This is a great book all fans of UNC basketball will enjoy. Jimmy does a great job of sharing an "inside" look of that championship team!

super insider information gives a real life perspective to players and team--great book for UNC and basketball enthusiasts

This is a great book for Tar Heel fans everywhere who are old enough to remember that magical year 1982 when the Tar Heels captured Dean Smith's first National Championship. Great stories and memories from a great player who many of us think was the driving force behind that Championship. If you are a Tar Heel fan and 1982 was one of those great years for you and you have not read this book, then buy it and read it right now!!

If you graduated from UNC in 1982, this is second only to the Bible as the best book you'll ever read. If you're a Tarheel, this is a MUST HAVE!
Scott Fowler's (of Charlotte Observer fame) writing is the best. Jimmy "Bossman" Black proves he can write as well as he can lead a championship team.

How 'bout dem Heels, they are the NATIONAL CHAMPIONS!

A pleasure to read. As a Tar Heel who knew Jimmy, I am not surprised by the candidness and honesty of his writings. The '81-'82 Tar Heels were an amazing team. Jimmy's book provides a personal perspective that brought back many memories. Any fan of college basketball should read this.

At the intro chapters, book delivers history of basketball offense. Fantastic experience for every reader. Then, applying historical modification of rules - modification of offensive play tactics are modified too.

Very nice, concise and understandable logic, excellent video material makes this edition very valuable.

Any basketball coach will be able to learn valuable skills from one of the NCAA's top coaches. Teach your team the UCLA offense.

Excellent book, well organized, great instruction, and very useful for anyone coaching basketball. Very humble and articulate, knowledgeable authors.

This is the best basketball book & DVD I have ever had. THE COACH of UCLA is the best. The book and the video are very easy to use and describe with full detail the UCLA offense. YOU MUST HAVE THIS TOOL IN YOUR LIBRARY....

WHEN THE BEST COLLEGE COACH OF ALL TIME TELLS YOU HIS OFFENSE AND THEN SHOWS YOU IN DETAIL HOW TO USE IT - IT'S PRICELESS. WATCH THE DVD FIRST AND THEN READ THE BOOK.