Book Description
More than 2,500 card sets are listed in this popular book.It's the most comprehensive basketball card source ever!Includes complete coverage of cards and collectibles from 1933 to present.Features how-to-collect guide, history of basketball cards and much more. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Basketball Price Guide
We have been buying this price guide since it's inception but the quality and content has been dropping the last few years. I suppose they are trying to keep the price down, but they are omitting and reducing too much. I would say though, until someone comes up with something more complete, it's the one to buy.

Great Beckett!
Great book, came in awesome condition and I love using it!Highly recomended for all NBA card collectors!

This is the book you need to put together your want lists
Look, we all know that monthly price guides cannot possibly keep up with the explosion of basketball cards produced by all the companies putting out cards today. All they can do is focus on the name cards on the stars. But if you are trying to put together a set of 1957-58 Topps, 1986-87 Fleer or 1992-93 Hoops, then you need to know ALL the cards so you are prepared for dealers whether they organize their cards by number or team or player's name. With the "Beckett Basketball Card Price Guide" you have your best chance to find out exactly what is out there.True, in practical terms the prices quoted have a chance of being obsolete by the time you track down the cards you want, but the key thing about all of these Price Guides is that they list all the cards, including all the extras, bonsues, special sets and the like. Whether you are looking for a card of this year's MVP, Allen Iverson or Ernie Calverley (he was on the first basketball card put out by Bowman in 1948), this is the book you want to use to put together your want lists when I head out to the card shows.

great source for the basketball collector
This is a great source for the basketball collector. It is the most recent of the annual beckett price guides and provides listings for card sets that can't be found such as classic, scoreboard, chivas de guadalajara, and 5-sport sets. no card is left out has been left out. This updated book now gives you updated values for some of Kobe Bryant's rarest cards like the Scoreboard Die-Cut and the Chivas de Guadalajara team set Kobe RC edition. This book is recommended to all collectors.

Awesome
This book is so cool.I suggest you get it.It tells you just about everything you want to know about your cards and how much they are worth.Worth your money to buy it.It is the best thing that I have and itcan be yours ... Read more

Book Description

This new updated and revised edition of Coaching Basketball--the National Association of Basketball Coaches official coaching handbook--features more than 130 articles by basketball’s leading coaches, covering every aspect of the game. Dozens of current and former coaches from high school through the collegiate and professional levels, such as John Wooden, Rick Majerus, and Rick Pitino, share their ideas and tips on fundamentals, strategy, and conditioning, as well as coaching foundations, including coaching philosophy, running a program, and recruiting.

Customer Reviews (4)

Another masterpiece by Jerry Krause.
I love teaching and coaching basketball. I also love reading and learning more about the game. Most of my reviews are 5 star and thats because I do my homework when purchaseing a new book. This book would be a 5 star plus if possible.A good book for reading but always a great source of reference. Contains every aspect of basketball.

Coaching Basketball by Jerry Krause
Jerry Krause has put together a great coaching book with articlescontributed by the greatest coaches in the game, covering all aspects ofthe game.A "must have" for any coach or player seeking a higherlevel of knowledge of the game.

This is the best coaches book
This book covers it all. From developing your coaching philosophy to Junk Defenses. I have used it to teach 15 year olds a full court press to 9 year olds the basics of footwork. I have over 15 books on basketball, yet thisone never seems to make it back onto the shelf.

This and the 5-starbasketball drill book are the only two books you will ever need as a coach!

the best book on basketball ever written
I have read many books on basketball, but this is simply the best.It takes the coaches and their specialties so you know you are getting the best advice ever.An example is John Wooden and the high-low offense andJerry Tarkanian talking about pressing defenses.You will definately getyour money's worth in information. ... Read more

Book Description

The newest addition to the highly successful Baffled Parent's Guide Series.

Customer Reviews (5)

Greg
As a curriculum director of summer sports camps for Basketball I highly recommend this book to all coaches. It challenges players to learn proper techniques, but more importantly it challenges players to think about their decision making, and to understand concepts of vision and space. (Difficult for many, so lets help make it easier). The book is ideal for working with youth players, the philosophy behind the book and the drills are fantastic.

Physical Education Teacher...what is H.A.'s profession
Just out of curiosity, I would like to know the back ground on the person who reviewed this book named H.A.It is obvious that he or she did not have a background in education or youth developement. Having worked with over thousands of students I can safely say that H.A. doesn't have a clue on what kids can really understand.If it is over your head then you have no business trying to teach it to the kids.Feel free to reply or email..

Owner/director of youth camps...great tool for any age.
As a director of youth basketball camps I found Dr. Garland's book priceless.There are few books written on space and movement like this one.You can never have enough drills to reinforce movement on and off the ball.The illustrations could help even the begginner level coach have a taste at success.
There are a great deal of inexperienced coaches and parents that could bennifit from this book.I use it and it works.

An Extremely Valuable Basketball Coaching Book!
Basketball books I have read by the dozen. None like this one though. Jim Garland's approach to teaching the game is totally unique. How many times have you seen kids at basketball practices standing in lines waiting for their turn? How many times have you seen teams with one or two players who move around on offense while the others stand watching? These drills involve kids constantly in the skills and concepts of the game without ever waiting in lines.Garland's drills teach coaches how to get those players to move intelligently on the court, help teammates get the ball in good places, see open players, and how to play defense within a team concept. What's amazing is that the drills are so well thought out, they do the teaching for you. Most drills are a game within themselves but as players strive to "win" the drill, they are improving in their understanding of the very concept you were trying to get across. The descriptions are remarkably simple. The progressions are masterful. And the diagrams are extraordinarily user friendly.Garland's Baffled Parent's Guide to Great Basketball Drills is a must for any youth coach! 5 stars!

Baffled by Your Book
I bought The Baffleds Parent's Guide To Coaching Youth Basketball and thought that the drill book might be interesting as well. Boy was I dissapointed. The drill book is nothing more than an attempt to extract more money from consumers like me. Readers beware--the coaching book is excellent ---the drill book is terrible. ... Read more

Book Description
Five-Star Basketball Camps have long been synonymous with quality basketball instruction -- some of the best players in the world have been Five-Star campers: including Michael, Patrick, Isaiah, Moses, Christian, Alonzo, Grant, Stephon, The Rainman, Elton, Allan, Jayson and Vince! In 1999 eight former Five-Star Campers were selected as NBA first round draft picks: Elton Brand, Steve Francis, Richard Hamilton, Ron Artest, Trajan Langdon, Dion Glover, Corey Maggette and Jumaine Jones!As a longtime leader in basketball instruction, Five-Star feels it must continue in its quest to educate young players about their sport. About 20 years ago, Five-Star published a book based on the drills and teachings of their boys' camps Five-Star Basketball Drills, that has become an essential part of every coach's library. In 2000, Five-Star compiled and produced the most comprehensive, state-of-the-art collection of drills by girls' and women's coaches ever assembled. Ten thousand copies were sold in the first two years of its publication. In 2003, we are pleased to announce the publication of an updated version of Five-Star Girls' Basketball Drills with more of what was loved in the first edition: more great drills, more great coaches, more information on how to make the most of your playing time as a player and how to get the most out of your team if you are a coach! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

good practice material
There are a great variety of drills from all over the country and different programs, and they encompass every skill development need and many possible numbers of players I could be working with at any one time. It is a great boost to my normal practice plan and drills.

A Five-Star in Your Basketball Coaching Library
Join some of the nation's finest womens' coaches as they share the drills they use at the most premiere women's camp in the country. The book contains ten chapters (over 100 Drills) that examines everything from nutrition to skill development. Coaches sharing drills include Tara Van Derveer, Joe Ciampi, Matt Brzycki, Kristie Curry, and more.
If you truly understand basketball this book is even better than the First Edition.Although in-depth, this book is not complicated or hard to understand.It is a user friendly resource, that any coach or player, should possess. This book is a must for the beginner, intermediate and/or advanced player/coach.

Many Great Drills
I couldn't be happier with this book.It gave me many drills to use with my team from some of the best coaches in the game.
It's a great addition to any serious coach's library. ... Read more

Book Description
From the opening tip to the last-second buzzer-beater, there's no letting up for the basketball referee. Before you step out on the hardwood, Officiating Basketball will help you ensure you're in the right place at the right time to make the right call.

Based on officiating mechanics devised and endorsed by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), Officiating Basketball is the definitive guide for new and experienced high school referees. Included are guidelines for what's expected of you as a basketball official, officiating procedures and responsibilities, and pre- and postgame duties.

More than 100 photos and illustrations of positioning, court movement, and signals support officiating mechanics for two- and three-person crews. Real-life cases demonstrate correct rulings, point out common officiating errors and how to avoid them, and challenge you to make the right call in game situations. A glossary of key basketball terms is also included. Officiating Basketball is not only a rules book--it's a practical resource for implementing correct mechanics as developed and approved by the NFHS. ... Read more

Book Description

This book contains the coaching blueprint and philosophy of the man who won more college-level games than any other basketball coach in history!

Dean Smith led the Tar Heels of the University of North Carolina to 879 wins over 30 years of coaching. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Must read
This is an awesome book. A lot of useful information for students, professionals and athletes.

Great book for higher level coaches
I love this book and have bought it for several of my coaching friends.Full of great info from one of the best.Good diagrams and great instruction on how to implement multiple offenses and defenses.One of my favorite coaching books (and I have a ton).A great higher-level resource.

a great book
I have read this book over and over again.It has been a useful tool is my basketball coaching.

The Holy Grail
I coached a camp this past summer in which a few coaches were discussing this book and referred to it as "The Holy Grail" of basketball books. To any coach looking for new perspectives and strategies, I would strongly recommend this book. You may not be able to use everything, and some of the information is a bit dated, but it prompted a million ideas of my own, and helped me plan out some fresh drills, plays, and defenses for my team.

Team Improved with this Book
I have always been a fan of Roy Williams who knows well the system of Dean Smith.So, by default, I am a fan of Coach Smith.Previous reviews have aptly explained the features of the book but I wanted to focus on an aspect that directly led to my team winning more games over the past two years.

Described in the book is a statistical chart that Smith used to check his team's productivity taking into account the results of possessions.Every time your shooting percentage is high and your free throw attempts are high, you win. (obviously)But the chart comares your success to the opponent.Even in a win by 4 points, my team's productivity was less than the opponent.Tournovers were too high.We were giving away possessions.I presented this information to the players and they could see with their own eyes the data.We "threw away" possessions that didn't yeild shots.Players can be told about taking care of the ball; players can watch their mistakes on game film.But this formula rating their points per possession seemed to drive the message home.(by the way, the second time we faced the team be beat by 4, we won by 20 and had 2 turnovers.Their focus was so much higher) ... Read more

Book Description

"Basketball Basics has a great deal to offer as a guide to teaching beginning basketball skills."-- Aubrey Bonham, Former Whittier College head basketball coach and member of the Basketball Hall of Fame

Customer Reviews (4)

Not a "How to Play" Book - More of a Coaching Book
I was disappointed with this book, and actually sent it back.This book is targeted at coaches, not at someone who wants to learn how to play basketball (rules, terminology, scoring, positions, etc).

The book I keep coming back to
I've been coaching girl's basketball now for four years.In the beginning I knew nothing.I was just a parent who stepped in.But now I feel like a good coach.I bought a lot of books and videos, but this is the one that is really helpful and that I come back to again and again.It is really aimed at recreational youth basketball -- grades 3-6.I'm not sure it would be useful to coaches at higher levels, but then again, the basics are still the basics regardless of your level.If you want to help young kids improve, and you want to be a better coach for youth basketball, this is your book.

This book is great for new coaches of inexperienced players.
This book is an excellent resource for an inexperienced coach of young players. The author has coached at all levels and can relate exactly how to coach both experienced and inexperienced players.The recommended drillsare tied into an overall game strategy as the book progresses.I wouldrecommend this book to anyone who would like to get started coachingbasketball for beginners and any moderately experienced coach who needs agood reference book for the basics.

Very good book for the beginning player/coach.
Very good book for the beginning player and/or coach. Good emphasis on the basics and fundamentals. Also includes good explanations of strategies of the basic offenses/defenses ... Read more

Book Description
Master all the important skills of basketball and take your game to the next level. Basketball: Steps to Success provides in-depth, progressive instruction in techniques and tactics, including detailed tutoring on shooting and 111 drills featuring a scoring system to gauge your progress.

As you build your skill base, you'll learn how to make all the right moves in game situations, whether it's executing the correct footwork when defending screens or making the right pass for a winning basket. Highly regarded coach, teacher, and clinician Hal Wissel will help you execute each technique proficiently and consistently on the court.

Improve your game. Basketball: Steps to Success will help you develop the total package of tools to achieve your goals on the court. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

GREAT BOOK FOR STARTING OUT.
THIS BOOK IS EXCELLENT FOR COACHING AT ALL LEVELS. I HAVE OTHER GREAT COACHING BOOKS AND I'M COMPARING THIS BOOK TO MY OTHERS. THIS CONTAINED THE BEST SHOOTING CHAPTER SINCE BILL KUTCHARS BOOK ON HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL.

This book teaches many fundamentals.
This book tought me a lot of fundamentals. It has many illustrations

From NBA to Youth Level, Coaches and Players Will Gain
"Hal Wissel shares the personalized techniques he has mastered teaching players from NBA to youth level. Coaches and players will gain from his steps to success." Chuck Daly, Coach, 1992 Olympic BasketballTeam

Innovative instruction and drills to improve your game
"Basketball: Steps to Success has the innovative instruction and drills you need to master the fundamentals that will improve your total game."

Help players improve and enable coaches to teach better.
"Hal Wissel is an astute basketball architect. This book will help players improve and enable coaches to teach the game better." Jack Ramsay, PHD Television Analyst for ESPN and Miami Heat ... Read more

Book Description

This book is a must-have for every coach and player!

John Wooden was a teacher and coach at UCLA for 27 years. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Basketball Book
I found this book to be very informative.This was purchased for my grandson who is a basketball fan and player (age 14) and I am sure that he will be delighted with the book (a Christmas present for him)

Practical Modern Basketball
Great fundamentals for life and basketball.From overviews to extreme detail.

Practical Modern Basketball (3rd Edition)
I HIT THE LOTTERY WHEN I ORDERED THIS BOOK. IT COVERS EVERYTHING ANY COACH NEEDS TO BE SUCCESSFUL. YOU WILL NEVER USE EVERYTHING CONTAINED IN THIS BOOK BUT USE THIS BOOK AS AN ENCYCLOPEDIA OF CHAMPIONSHIP BASKETBALL. THIS BOOK COULD BE USED AS THE TEXT FOR A COLLEGE COURSE. IT COVERS ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING

OK
This book is helpful for a coach trying to start a program.There are many things that a new coach could use.The ideas worked well for Wooden 30+ years ago, so some of it could be outdated.But most of it is pretty good. The diagrams are confusing.You need a magnifying glass to follow the cuts of the players.More time could have been spent on the stall section.

Practical Modern Basketball
When you think of Success, you should recognize John R. Wooden as the leader in this area. This book expands upon his Pyramid of Success philospophy through his coaching regiment. Here again, what was the reasonfor UCLA's success. It was through the attention to detail and preparation.This book is very detail oriented. It is a working example of what it takesto become successful in coaching basketball. If you are coaching youthsthat are below the high school ranks, then this book is probably toadvanced for knowledge transfer. But, there are many drills, offensive setsand defensive alignments that are teachable to young basketball players.For coaches involved in youth leagues, CYO, AAU, Intramurals, Junior HighSchool, this book can help if you are trying to improve upon specific areasof teaching basketball. For instance, I found the 3-1-1 or "T"Half Court Zone Trap to be quite effective and provided a new look defense.There are a multitude of offensive sets, systems, and drills that may helpas well. What you'll find in the book is there is no magic to winning asthe label "Wizard" would suggest. It is accomplished through hardwork and for coaches it is the details. Thanks again Coach Wooden. ... Read more

Book Description

To be #1, your team has to play as one

How many times have you heard, "There is no I in team"? Still, U.S. basketball continues to be dominated by individual play, which has led to a number of embarrassing upsets on the world and Olympic courts. From middle-school to the NBA, there are no championships without teamwork--and there's no teamwork without good coaching.

Customer Reviews (1)

Badger fan review
Coaches Crean and Pim offer very objective and practical lessons in coaching and leadership.Their approach is both extremely detailed and well organized. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Awesome tool for new coaches
Great tool for first time coaches. I'm coaching 7 year olds that never played basketball before and this is helping me coordinate my practice and game plans.

A must have book for youth basketball coaches
I have coached kids (boys and girls) in basketball of ages 4-12, this book provided the best information on what to do and what to expect.Particularly, the part of patience, repetition/reinforcement, and the fundalmentals.The recommended offensive plays (post interchange, wheel, shuffle, etc.) and defensive strategies (whether man-to-man or zone) are excellent.Additionally, the chapters on vision, motivational phrases, and running a practice are worth reading.The author recommends the use of parents during practice time, called "stations" to maximize proper skill development.This book is a must for those interested in coaching youth basketball.

Very good book on B.Ball for youth, with tips for parents
This book does a good job of covering the basics, including the fundemental of shooting, dribbling, passing, pick and roll, give and go, fakes,etc. with good photos.Good section on defense fundamentals too.There are also sections on offense and defense (both man-to-man & zone)with diagrams. There are sections for coaches including running a practicecomplete with a check list.A good section for parents is added completewith motivational phrases.

A Practical Guide To Coaching youth Basketball
A woderful book. Short (156 pp.) and highly readable,McCarthy makes it all very simple.McCarthy covers the fundamentals (footwork, dribbling, rebounding, etc.) but intersperses his text with invaluable practicaladvice -- e.g., "I always say to drive as close to a defender aspossible.If he reacts and moves back into that lane, he will commit afoul."There is also a great emphasis on team play, and how toencourage kids to pass and play a team game. I have played and coachedbasketball for twenty five years.While this book covers enough basics fora novice, it also contains many valuable insights that I use in coaching a12 and under youth program today. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Basic Fundimental Book
There is nothing "ultimate" about this basketball shooting book.Filled with lots of pictures and fundimental instruction that is in most every basketball book on the market.Certainly not up to the hype.

GO WRIGHT!!!
Mr.Wright was my teacher last year in Jr.High School.He taught History-but BASKETBALL?! Who'd think that a newspaper dweller would know so much about basketball? Anyway-It is a FABULOUS book,and if you play basketball,it is guaranteed to get you on the team!

This is the best book available to learn how to shoot
Basketball has not had a tool like this until now. This book is so complete and easy to understand. If you want to be a great shooter this book will teach you how.

This is the Best
This is the best book on basketball skills I have ever seen. If you want to learn how to become a very good player, this book is a must. There is nothing I have seen which comes close to this book. It is fantastic!

The best book I have seen about basketball
I have over 150 books dealing with basketball and this one blows away all the others. It is extremely clear, precise and gives the player, coach, and parents a tool to teach how to play the game. The chapters on shooting are the best I have ever seen. ... Read more

Amazon.com
Nancy Lieberman-Cline is one of basketball's greatest-ever women players:the first high-school athlete to make aU.S. Olympic basketball team and the first woman to play in a men's professional league.She teams up with Robin Roberts, a great college player and successful sportscaster for ABC and ESPN, to share her insights and help women use physical drills, mental techniques and plain old basketball strategy to hone their skills to the sharpest.Book Description
If you're serious about playing basketball at a high level, Basketball for Women: Becoming a Complete Player will help you get there. Inside you'll find

• 111 drills for improving offensive and defensive skills;

• guidelines and programs for physical conditioning;

• ways to maximize practice time and game performance; and

• tips for handling the recruitment process.

Nancy Lieberman-Cline, a legend in women's basketball on the college, Olympic, and professional levels, has competed against the best players in the game . . . Magic Johnson, Cheryl Miller, Lynette Woodard, Sheryl Swoopes, and Isiah Thomas. She teams up with Robin Roberts, a great college player and successful sportscaster for ABC and ESPN, to share her insights and help you develop your skills to reach your fullest potential. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Targeted for high-caliber, self-motivated player
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.

One of the best basketball books out there
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.

A Must for Coaches of Girls Basketball
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 trainingmanual in coaching fundamentals.Some of the skills may be too advancedfor younger kids but they will grow up and adapt to it when they return toyou a little older and better skilled thanks to this reference.It shouldbe used in conjunction with the videos by the author (available also fromAmazon).If Nancy Lieberman-Cline ever sponsors a clinic I will be on thefirst plane to get there.As a player-coach-teacher she is the best forgirls basketball!

If you are a women and you love basketball buy this book!!!!
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!!!!

Excellent book, broken down very efficiently!
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 isa must buy for anyone serious about the game, whether coach, player, or aserious fan! ... Read more

Book Description
STUFF Good Players Should Know may very well be thebest book ever written for basketball players and fans. It isconversational and easy to understand, yet filled with subtle insights intothe game of basketball. STUFF is page after page of creativeconcepts, common sense, and special tips that can not be found anywhereelse. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Best How To Basketball Book Ever
This new version of the late Dick DeVenzio's classic book of basketball 'tips' has been re-typeset and is much easier to read thanks to his Point Guard College protege Dena Evans. Every player and coach should have a copy of this book. Amazon's price is great on this hardcover edition. I bought the original in 1995 when I broke my foot and was unable to play ball for two years. Now I have bought copies for my son and his high school coaches along with DeVenzio's Runnin' the Show.

The things covered in Stuff are not found in any other basketball book I have read-- things many coaches surely know, but don't remember to teach and reinforce- or things they have forgotten and never really put into words.If you are a player or coach or know one, buy this book.

Everything you always wanted to teach, but didn't have time for
Coaches: You may try, but you can't teach every principle and golden rule in this book. So give it to them on their birthday's and they might surprise you by making the play you wanted them to make, without teaching it to them. Coach Dick "stuff" Devenzio did.
Players: surprise your coach by knowing and performing what he wants, before he even tells you.
As a player I would have liked to keep this book in my sportsbag, as a coach I would have liked to have written this book myself.

Interesting Reading
Although this book is in alphabetical order it doesn't jump all over the place. They try to keep a continuous flow to make it interesting and informative. The best point of this book is to give you a different approach to almost anything you'd encounter in a game.

GOOD STUFF
It is exactly what I was looking for. The price was right and the book could only be found on Amazon. Thanks ... Read more

Book Description

Drain three pointers, slam dunk easily, and sink that buzzer beater from half court with the help of simple science. Your coach, physicist John J. Fontanella, shows how you can improve your game if you take advice from Isaac Newton. As you read, relive some of the great moments in the game -- this time with a scientist and diehard basketball fan as your color analyst.

Find out why you ought to put spin on the ball. Get tips on how to improve your free throw and increase your percentage from the charity stripe. You'll even learn how to shatter the backboard, if that's something you've always dreamed of doing.With photographs and simple high school formulas, physics professor Fontanella -- who played in college against Pittsburgh and Syracuse -- reveals the key pieces of physics that underscore basketball. He covers almost every aspect of the game, weaving in stories from games he's played and games he's seen, and tales from basketball history and folklore. Physics comes alive as you see how Kobe Bryant, Wilt "the Stilt" Chamberlain, Michael Jordan, Becky Hammon, and J. J. Reddick do naturally the things that Isaac Newton says they should.

Customer Reviews (5)

Shoot da Rock, Baby!!!
This is a great book for delving deeper into the game of basketball and getting the low down on practical physics.Highly recommend this.

Font size
I gave the book as a gift and was disappointed when I got a glimpse of the print on the page ... it was very small (to save cost of printing?) and did not look like it would be easy to read....however, I did not read the book so I will have to talk to the giftee to find that info

The true science of basketball
Over the years, I have found it fascinating to read books on the physics of baseball. Curve balls do curve, knuckle balls do knuckle and scientists have come to admit to the facts that the experimentalists (baseball players) have known for decades. In this book, Fontanella, a physics professor at the United States Naval Academy and a former college basketball player, analyzes the many ways a basketball can bounce. It is very detailed yet extremely entertaining. It is so specific that he points out how much less a basketball weighs as a consequence of air buoyancy. Even to the point where he compares the differences in the weights between the balls used in the women's game versus the men's game. While that part was not of great interest, the rest certainly was.
Like the baseball players, the basketball players have carried out a lot of empirical research. However, not to the extent that Fontanella has. He is very specific about the best angle for a shot, where the "sweet spot" is on the backboard when attempting a lay up and even to the distortion affects on a basketball when it is bounced. While the latter may not appear significant, it is critical for shooting percentages. As the author points out, very few shots are "nothing but net." Most make some contact with the rim and many bounce off the rim before going through the net. The manner in which the ball bounces off the rim is critical. If you have ever played, you know the difference between a soft shot and a "brick."
This is not a book where the author expresses his love for the game and then throws in a bit of physics. It is a serious treatise on basketball with enough formulas so that it could be used in a high school or college physics class. That part was impressive, many coaches would find an examination of this book time well spent.

Published in Journal of Recreational Mathematics, reprinted with permission

Physics + Basketball
Physics teachers can add some pizzazz to their lectures with these great basketball stories used to explain physics.

The Physics of Basketball
Make no mistake about it, this is not an introductory book.This is for people who know basketball and a little physics or know physics and a little basketball.It tells basketball stories to illustrate physics and physics stories to illustrate basketball.
I would recommend this book to high school and college physics teachers to add interest to their discussions.It could even be used as text for a college course on physics of sports.Not only does sport interest students, they already know something about 'how it works' and with the help of this book, an instructor can use physics to introduce them to 'why it works'.
I found of the sequence of explanation of the four force model of the flight of the ball exceptionally well done.As with a good scienctist, he started with data.Then he took one force, gravity, explained how it works, what effect it will have on a shot ball and compared the effect to data. He showed how gravity was necessary but insufficient to explain the ball's motion.Through three more forces: buoynacy, drag (air resistance) and Magnus force, he methodically discussed the force, performed measurements, then added the force to the model.Now that he had the four force model, he used it to explain how a good shooter chooses his shot angle to make a shot 'softer' not, as one might expect, easier.Marvelous -- data, theory (or theories), model, prediction, repeat until it matches nature, and finally use the model to explain something not originally in the model.How much more accurate a view of the method of scientist than the "scientific method".
As the motion of the ball gets more complicated, following the physics does get a bit challenging.Through the discussion of deflections off the rim and backboard, I admit I read for a while and then let it sink in before I returned to it.I was however rewarded in discovering how correct I was in trying to use the board when close to the hoop -- only thirty years too late.
As with any good rock concert, one should be left wanting more, and I wished that the discussion of breaking the glass was given a bit more space.I think a figure or two more showing the effect of compression and tension and how this leads to an explosive break would have helped.
Finally, in addition to instructors, this book would be a good read for your scientist friend or science dabbler who would like good basketball stories along with some good stories of scientific inquiry. ... Read more

Book Description
An out-of-this-world story about a boy and his amazing basketball that will have little listeners begging to play, too.


We could bounce to the park,
Dribble to a funky beat.
Spin with me. Dance with me on concrete!

When a bored basketball pleads with a little boy to take it out to play,
is there any limit to the feats they can perform? ... Read more

Amazon.com
In some respects, a top-level college coach is a lot like a manager in any business. He has to turn a group of talented individuals into a smoothly running team, and he has to produce results that please the fans of his team--the shareholders of the athletic program. Thus, in Leading with the Heart, Krzyzewski reviews the lessons he's learned as basketball coach at Duke University, and tries to universalize them so they translate to any leadership position. For example, he writes, "Adjustments are not unusual, they are usual. So a leader's ability to think on his feet ... to do things without instruction ... is of paramount importance." Makes sense, as does this admonition: "When teaching, always remember this simple phrase: 'You hear, you forget. You see, you remember. You do, you understand.'"

The book has four sections--"Preseason," "Regular Season," "Postseason," and "All-Season"--and each of those has four chapters. Each chapter begins with three quotes ("Too many rules get in the way of leadership" leads off chapter 1), and ends with bulleted tips summing up the chapter's message. Between the quotes and the bullet points are anecdotes about Duke basketball games and (occasionally) Krzyzewski's life outside basketball. What you come away with is an understanding of why Krzyzewski is a great basketball coach, why former Duke assistants such as Tommy Amaker and Quin Snyder are probably going to become great basketball coaches, and how anyone who's currently a coach can become a better coach. It would be great if other types of managers in other types of businesses could incorporate these lessons in compassionate, focused, highly flexible leadership, but it seems unlikely. Most managers in business rise through the ranks not because of their ability to lead or inspire but because of their knowledge and competence (if not their connections). On the other hand, it would be nice if each of us, just once, could work for someone like Coach K, someone who could push the right buttons and lead us to our own version of the Final Four. Not likely, but a pretty sweet fantasy. --Lou SchulerBook Description
In some respects, a top-level college coach is a lot like a manager in any business. He has to turn a group of talented individuals into a smoothly running team, and he has to produce results that please the fans of his team--the shareholders of the athletic program. Thus, in Leading with the Heart, Krzyzewski reviews the lessons he's learned as basketball coach at Duke University, and tries to universalize them so they translate to any leadership position. For example, he writes, "Adjustments are not unusual, they are usual. So a leader's ability to think on his feet ... to do things without instruction ... is of paramount importance." Makes sense, as does this admonition: "When teaching, always remember this simple phrase: 'You hear, you forget. You see, you remember. You do, you understand.'"The book has four sections--"Preseason," "Regular Season," "Postseason," and "All-Season"--and each of those has four chapters. Each chapter begins with three quotes ("Too many rules get in the way of leadership" leads off chapter 1), and ends with bulleted tips summing up the chapter's message. Between the quotes and the bullet points are anecdotes about Duke basketball games and (occasionally) Krzyzewski's life outside basketball. What you come away with is an understanding of why Krzyzewski is a great basketball coach, why former Duke assistants such as Tommy Amaker and Quin Snyder are probably going to become great basketball coaches, and how anyone who's currently a coach can become a better coach. It would be great if other types of managers in other types of businesses could incorporate these lessons in compassionate, focused, highly flexible leadership, but it seems unlikely. Most managers in business rise through the ranks not because of their ability to lead or inspire but because of their knowledge and competence (if not their connections). On the other hand, it would be nice if each of us, just once, could work for someone like Coach K, someone who could push the right buttons and lead us to our own version of the Final Four. Not likely, but a pretty sweet fantasy. --Lou Schuler ... Read more

Customer Reviews (59)

Leading with the Heart
Some books I have read stand the test of time. Since its initial publication, this book by Coach K stands that test, with stories and chapters that both inspire and encourage. It gives valuable strategies for succeeding no matter what your aim is. It made me much more than a Duke fan, but made me a Coach K fan as well. Well done and it is no wonder the Duke program is so successful.

A must for coaches at all levels
A must read for coaches and business people alike. Very informative look on how Coach K built Duke into a basketball powerhouse. I am not a Duke fan but enjoyed this book.

THE BIBLE OF MOTIVATIONAL BOOKS & INTEGRITY: COACH "K" PROVES IT BY LIVING IT. SUPERBLY INSPIRING!
I read coach K's book when it first came out and recently re-read it. I often refer to it when I need to put things in the correct perspective. This inspirational book makes it easy to "take responsibility for yourself, and never let "it's not my job," enter into your mind. Coach "K" exemplifies "getting the job done/taking charge." Many a time I'm wondering what to do in tough situations, both in sports and business. I truly ask myself a lot: "What would a guy like coach Krzyzewski do?" I can't think of any coach who exemplifies more decency, integrity, honesty, perseverence, dedication, fairness, family values...you get the point. It appears there are many who admire him and, some will envy him. I say learn from him because he's proven beyond a shadow of a doubt, what leading with integrity and values is all about. Many, many, parent's say they want their kids to go to Duke. Why? These parents are specific to say that they hope their children can be part of the positive and integral influnce that "coach Krzyzewski brings to Duke." Major companies have used coach "K"s book to help executives get on the right track. You won't read a better book on motivation for anything in life. Amazing book, about an amazing person. Worth it!!!

Phenomenal leadership book
I have read this book and reviewed my notes several times and everytime I gain something new from it.Fantastic book on leadership and thought process of building a team that will excel.

THE worst book I have read by any coach
I am a professional College Coach. I have read Coach K's book and I found it to be the worst book I have ever read. The book repeats itself over and over again. Almost like he doesn't have anything really to say so he filled the book with filler. Nothing in the book made me go wow. Nothing was new to the coaching or leading world. Save your money and get a real book on Leadership.

I do not know one Coach in the NCAA world that has not read this book. And I can say that the majority of people agree with me. The ones that don't are just big Coach K or Duke fans.

I am not a UCLA fan in anyway. But I found that John Wooden's book to be more thoughtful and helpful.

Skip this book and find books on Leadership in the business world. Coach K is a great coach, but he can't write a book. And lets be honest it is not hard to coach the 10 best College players like Duke has. It is harder tocoach the 10 worst. And that is what we all are looking to get advice from.
... Read more

Book Description
Written for both coaches and fans who love the game, this extraordinary book features the coaching insights of 29 Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame coaches, including Mike Krzyzewski, Dean Smith, Pat Summitt, Bob Knight and John Wooden. Each coach has his own section consisting of his legacy with bullet points highlighting their contributions to the game, followed by their biography, a scouting report and, most importantly, lessons and instruction, accompanied by easy-to-read diagrams. ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description

Whether watching from a courtside seat or from the luxury of a living room couch, sports fans want to know exactly what's going on in between those two hoops-from what the players are thinking, to why fouls are called, to anticipating what the players are going to do before they actually do it.And there is no better man to explain the ins and outs of America's hottest sport than the Knicks' former star guard, Walt Frazier.In his inimitable voice and style, "Clyde" turns it on as he describes the basics basketball in simple terms anyone can understand, and clues readers into what makes stars such as Michael Jordan so invincible.Includes exciting action photos and a wealth of "Clyde's Chalk Talk," "Clyde's Record Book," and "Clyde's Tips" sidebars.

Customer Reviews (4)

Probably the complete introduction to basketball
The author intends and succeeds to introduce basketball fans of all ages to the beauty of basketball.
No matter you are 12 or 70, this book helps you understand fully what the game is, teaches you about the history of the american basketball, gives you precious info about positions, different leagues, how to watch a game, famous players, network, newspapers and web sites.
It may be not an interesting book if you bought it for scrimmages and other technical info, but I don't think that was the purpose of the book. It's just a brilliant introduction to the basketball game.
Don't buy any other basketball book before reading this one "court to court". It pays you off.
I highly recommend it to basketball lover.

Don't Buy this Book
Buy Basketball for Dummies instead.
In search of a book which would get me up to speed about a sport which I had never played but which my sons have become increasingly passionate about, I bought and read both. You would be and idiot to buy The Complete Idiot's Guide to Basketball.
The author appears to be more preoccupied with telling you how wonderful he and the players of his (long bygone) era were. The references to today's players are painfully few. His snipping asides against the work ethic of today's players should have no space in a book of this sort; it serves only to make him sound whinny. His writing is practically devoid of humour and his descriptions of plays and strategies are fairly tedious. The game just does not come alive under his pen. Had I been an absolute newcommer to the sport when I read this book, I would have encouraged my boys to take up more exciting sports like synchronised swimming. FOrtunately, I had watched several live and taped games and had my children's interest to help me realise that there was much more to basketball than I could find in the pages of this book.
Try again Mr. Frazier

a great book
this book is a must for folks that respect the basics of Basketball.and who better to show&tell than one of the Greatest players of All-Time in Walt Clyde'Frazier.he was a great defensive player&scorer.also he knowsthat Wilt Chamberlin was the Greatest Player ever.he breaks everythingdown.

Clyde covers the basics entertainingly and understandably.
Classy Clyde Frazier covers the fundamentals of basketball: the vocabulary, the role of each position, the basics of offense and defense, and a few common set plays.His writing is fun to read if a bitdumbed-down (hence the title).He draws examples largely from his playingdays, but knows well and comments aptly on players of all eras.He drawsthe distinctions between college and pro ball and includes women's and highschool ball, but properly focuses primarily on the NBA, where the game isplayed at its highest level.He shows you what to focus on when you watcha game and demonstrates how each player's skills come into play in thecourse of offense and defense.This book will enhance the novice'sappreciation for and enjoyment of the game; from what I have read of DiggerPhelps' "Basketball for Dummies," I'm glad I read Clyde's bookinstead. ... Read more