As a lifelong basketball fan, I was really intrigued by this book. The cover caught my eye, but the synopsis sealed my interest, and I was thrilled to be approved for this title.
In How to Watch Basketball Like a Genius, Nick Greene pulls from various professions, perspectives, and experiences in order to dissect and examine the international sensation that is professional basketball. Spanning decades and points of view, Greene breaks down how basketball became the multi-billion dollar industry it is today, how the rules have changed over time, and what exactly makes basketball so damn watchable.
I can't say enough good things about this book. From the first page, Greene had me hooked. His sarcastic, oftentimes self-deprecating humor was both clever and engrossing. I've gone to the HoF many times in my life, but he managed to relay brand new information about a sport I've always loved without info dumping or succumbing to the dreaded tour-guide reciting monotone.
This book has everything: facts, figures, jokes, historical tidbits, and hilarious anecdotes.
And while I requested this because of my love of the sport, this is definitely not just a book for basketball fans. Sure, it helps to be familiar with the game and players, but there's so much to love about how Greene approaches the ins and outs of success and popularity that gives this universal appeal. I think many readers will respond to his anecdotal structure and diverse figures.
On a personal note, I loved getting to read about some of my favorite teams and players, and I knew this book was legit when Greene included a breakdown of Andre Drummond's free throw style.
Overall, How to Watch Basketball Like a Genius is one of my top books to look for in 2021. As entertaining as it is enlightening, add this to your TBRs now.
Huge thanks to Abrams Press for providing an eARC in exchange for honest review consideration.
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