Joy of Basketball: An Encyclopedia of the Modern Game

The Joy of Basketball is a vibrant, unconventional guide to the triumphs, joys, struggles, and heartbreaks of the modern era of the game, focusing on everything else, such as incredible players, draft flops, long-limbed oddballs, superteams, the international talent wave, brawls, scandals, the rapid evolution of contemporary gameplay, coaching, fashion, crime, positional erosion, tragic tales, memes, and the sacred Kardashian Blessing.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 09 December 2021
Publisher: Abrams

The modern era of basketball has been a rollercoaster of triumphs, joys, struggles, and heartbreaks, captivating the hearts of obsessive basketball fans who revel in the opportunity to hate hot takes. In response to this fervent passion, "The Joy of Basketball" emerges as a vibrant, unconventional, and highly opinionated guide that celebrates the remarkable journey of the sport over the past quarter century. Rather than limiting itself to the conventional binary of wins or losses, this captivating book delves into the myriad aspects that make basketball truly exhilarating.

Through a combination of engaging text, captivating charts, and visually striking illustrations, "The Joy of Basketball" upends conventional jock wisdom and presents a fresh perspective on the game. It delves into the most incredible players in history, from the legendary Michael Jordan to the enigmatic Kobe Bryant, highlighting their extraordinary talents and contributions to the sport. The book also explores the tales of draft flops, long-limbed oddballs, superteams, and the international talent wave that have shaped the landscape of basketball.

In addition to its focus on the game itself, "The Joy of Basketball" delves into the colorful world of basketball culture. It examines the rapid evolution of contemporary gameplay, coaching strategies, fashion trends, crime, scandals, and the impact of social media on the sport. The book weaves witty graphics and keen sociopolitical observations seamlessly into its narrative, creating a subversive sports manifesto that camouflages itself as a vibrant reference book for your coffee table.

"The Joy of Basketball" is a celebration of the human spirit and the indomitable power of sports to bring people together. It offers a refreshing perspective on the game that challenges traditional narratives and encourages fans to appreciate the complexities and nuances of the sport. Whether you are a seasoned basketball enthusiast or a newcomer seeking to understand the world of hoops, this book is a must-read for anyone who loves to hate hot takes and embrace the joy of basketball.

Weight: 820g
Dimension: 183 x 237 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781419754821