9 Basketball Books To Read In 2025

Basketball is more than just a game; it is a lifestyle, a passion, and an inspiration for millions of people around the world. Whether you are a die-hard basketball fan or just a casual reader, books offer a treasure trove of knowledge, motivation, and insight. Below is a list of 9 basketball books that every basketball fan should read.

1. A Sense of Where You Are – John McPhee

This classic book offers a deep and insightful portrait of Bill Bradley, one of the most intelligent and disciplined players in basketball history. John McPhee masterfully examines Bradley’s meticulous approach to the game, his exceptional skills, and his leadership at Princeton University. The book also delves into Bradley’s character, work ethic, and how his basketball success prepared him for a career in politics. It is an essential read for those who appreciate a thoughtful and analytical take on the game.

2. Basketball (and Other Things) – Shea Serrano

For those who love both humor and deep basketball insights, Shea Serrano delivers an engaging and witty take on the game. This book is a unique mix of trivia, analysis, and pop culture references that make basketball discussions even more fun and thought-provoking. It explores intriguing questions such as what the greatest "what-if" moments in NBA history are, and how various basketball legends would fare in different eras. With vibrant illustrations and a conversational writing style, this book is a perfect read for fans who want to learn about the game while being entertained.

3. The Hoops Whisperer – Idan Ravin

Idan Ravin, a self-taught basketball trainer, has worked with some of the greatest players in NBA history, including LeBron James, Chris Paul, and Kevin Durant. In this book, Ravin shares his unconventional path to becoming a sought-after skills coach, detailing the unique training methods and mental strategies he employs. His ability to unlock a player’s potential goes beyond traditional coaching, focusing on mindset, discipline, and self-belief. This book is an inspiring read for players, coaches, and anyone interested in the psychological side of athletic excellence.

4. The Book of Basketball – Bill Simmons

Sports columnist Bill Simmons takes readers on an epic journey through basketball history, analyzing players, teams, and the evolution of the game. This comprehensive book is packed with insightful rankings, historical context, and entertaining commentary. Simmons presents his famous "Pyramid" of the greatest players ever, offering detailed arguments for each selection. He also discusses the unwritten rules of the game and the "secret" that makes championship teams successful. With a mix of humor, statistics, and personal anecdotes, this book is an essential read for basketball fans who love debates and in-depth analysis.

5. Playing for Keeps – David Halberstam

This book is considered one of the definitive biographies of Michael Jordan. Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist David Halberstam, it offers a deep exploration of Jordan’s rise to superstardom, his relentless drive for success, and his impact on global sports culture. The book covers Jordan’s early years, his college career at North Carolina, and his rise to dominance with the Chicago Bulls. It also examines his commercial influence, branding, and the business of basketball. With unparalleled storytelling, Halberstam paints a vivid picture of the man who changed the sport forever.

6. The Assist – Neil Swidey

A deeply moving book about basketball’s role in urban communities, this story follows a coach who uses the game to mentor young players and guide them toward a better future. It highlights the power of basketball beyond just wins and losses. Swidey captures the challenges faced by young athletes growing up in disadvantaged communities and the impact of a dedicated coach in shaping their lives. This inspiring story is a testament to the power of mentorship, perseverance, and the unifying force of basketball in changing lives for the better.

7. The Last Shot – Darcy Frey

This gripping book follows the lives of young basketball players in Coney Island, New York, as they chase their dreams of making it to the NBA. Darcy Frey provides an unfiltered look at the pressures, struggles, and harsh realities of the recruitment process and the impact of social and economic conditions on young athletes. Through powerful storytelling, the book captures both the hopes and hardships of high school basketball players fighting for a better future. It is a must-read for those interested in the intersection of basketball, culture, and opportunity.

8. When the Game Was Ours – Larry Bird & Magic Johnson with Jackie MacMullan

Larry Bird and Magic Johnson, two of the NBA’s greatest rivals, collaborate to tell their story. They discuss their legendary battles, their mutual respect, and how they helped shape the modern NBA. The book delves into their personal journeys, from college basketball to their fierce competition in the NBA Finals. It also explores their evolving friendship and how they transitioned from rivals to close friends. Filled with behind-the-scenes stories and personal reflections, this book provides a captivating look at one of basketball’s most iconic rivalries.

9. Loose Balls – Terry Pluto

Terry Pluto’s Loose Balls is an entertaining and comprehensive history of the American Basketball Association (ABA), which played a crucial role in shaping the modern NBA. The book features firsthand accounts from players, coaches, and executives, offering hilarious, dramatic, and often shocking stories from the league’s wild days. From the introduction of the three-point line to the emergence of legends like Julius Erving, this book provides an inside look at a league that changed the game forever. Basketball history enthusiasts will find this an invaluable and fascinating read.

Final Thoughts

These basketball books offer valuable lessons on strategy, leadership, teamwork, and perseverance. Each book provides something unique to enhance your understanding and love for the game.