Surveys the history of African Americans in basketball, from the beginning of the sport to the present, discussing individual teams and players and the integration of the National Basketball Association.
Book Description
Editorial Reviews
From School Library Journal
Grade 6 Up-This historical overview of African-American participation in basketball may initially disappoint readers hoping for coverage of the game's recent past. Those with a serious interest in black history, however, will find much of value in this examination of the struggle to achieve equality of opportunity in the sport. In an era in which black dominance of professional basketball is taken for granted, it may come as a shock to some that for the better part of this century, African Americans have faced severe restrictions in their attempts to compete on an equal basis with whites. McKissack points out that as recently as the 1970s, the owners of the Dallas team of the ABA dropped players for fear that white fans would not support a predominately black team. Of particular note is the skillful manner in which the sport is continually placed within its historical context. Coverage of the legendary Harlem Rens is especially outstanding in this regard. Full chapters are devoted both to the Rens and to the Harlem Globetrotters. McKissack does not shy away from controversy, noting that some black commentators have found the antics of the Globetrotters to be demeaning. He is also candid about how difficult life was for the early barnstorming teams, as they were often denied accommodations and forced to deal with racial taunts from the opposing players and fans. This book makes a unique and important contribution for this age range and should not be missed.
Richard Luzer, Fair Haven Union High School, VT
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Richard Luzer, Fair Haven Union High School, VT
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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