Betaball
In 'Betaball,' Erik Malinowski uncovers the revolutionary methods of the NBA's Golden State Warriors as they defy conventional basketball wisdom. The story delves into the analytics-driven approach that transformed a struggling franchise into a powerhouse. With insights from players, coaches, and analysts, it lays bare the behind-the-scenes battles of strategy and innovation in professional sports. This thrilling narrative not only captivates sports enthusiasts but also resonates with anyone interested in the interplay between technology and human performance. Prepare to rethink everything you know about the game of basketball!
By Erik Malinowski
Published: 2018
""In a game defined by numbers, the most critical variable is still the humans behind the data.""
Start Listening
What Readers Say About This Book
“As lively, thorough, and engaging as the team it chronicles” (Nathaniel Friedman), Betaball is a compelling look at how the Golden State Warriors embraced savvy business practices, next generation science, and Silicon Valley’s technocentric culture not only to produce one of the greatest basketball teams in history but also to revolutionize the NBA—perfect for fans of Moneyball and The Book of Basketball. Betaball is the definitive, inside account of how the Golden State Warriors, under the ownership of venture capitalist Joe Lacob and Hollywood producer Peter Guber, quickly became one of the greatest success stories in both sports and business. In just five years, they turned a declining franchise with no immediate hope into the NBA’s dominant force—and facilitated the rise of All-Star point guard Stephen Curry. By operating in “beta,” the Warriors morphed into a model organization for American professional sports, instituting the best workplace principles found inside the world’s most successful corporations, and instilling a top-down organizational ethos that allows employees—from the front office to the free-throw line—to thrive. With in-depth access and meticulous reporting on and off the court, acclaimed journalist Eric Malinowski recounts a gripping tale of a team’s reinvention, of worlds colliding, of ordinary people being pushed to extraordinary heights, and the Golden State Warriors’ chase for a second straight NBA championship during the 2015-’16 season. Betaball is “a book for fans of all sports and science, business and analytics, Silicon Valley and Wall Street, front offices and locker rooms, money and winning” (Don Van Natta Jr., ESPN reporter and New York Times bestselling author).
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Key Points from Betaball
About the Author
Erik Malinowski
Erik Malinowski is an accomplished author and sports journalist known for his keen insight into the world of sports and culture. With a writing style that blends analytical depth with a personal touch, Malinowski has contributed to various prominent publications, including ESPN and Wired. He is the author of 'Betting On Yourself: Adventures in the World of Sports Gambling' and 'Fantasyland: A Sportswriter’s Search for His Boyhood Dream,' both of which showcase his narrative prowess and passion for storytelling, offering readers a unique perspective on the intersection of sports and personal experience.
Book Details
Key information about the book.
- Authors
- Erik Malinowski
- Published
- November 2018
- Publisher
- Atria Books
- ISBN
- 1501158201
- Language
- English
- Pages
- N/A
- Genres
- Sports TrainingSports and FitnessBehavioral EconomicsTechnology
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Similar books you might like →
Misbehaving: The Making of Behavioral Economics
Richard H. Thaler
Homo Deus
Yuval Noah Harari
The Righteous Mind
Jonathan Haidt
Future Shock
Alvin Toffler
Talking to Crazy
Mark Goulston
Code
Charles Petzold
The Handmaid's Tale
Margaret Atwood
Get Back in the Box
Douglas Rushkoff
Bloodlands
Timothy Snyder
What Technology Wants
Kevin Kelly
The Dream Machine
M. Mitchell Waldrop
But how Do it Know?
J. Clark Scott
All the Light We Cannot See
Anthony Doerr
Cat's Cradle
Kurt Vonnegut
Why We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear Cows
Melanie Joy PhD
Bury the Chains
Adam Hochschild
Cumulus
Eliot Peper
The Coming Population Crash
Fred Pearce
Dealers of Lightning
Michael A. Hiltzik
The Weather Makers
Tim Fridtjof Flannery
Management Information Systems
Ken J. Sousa, Effy Oz
Men, Machines, and Modern Times
Elting Elmore Morison
The New Financial Order
Robert J. Shiller
Loveless
Alice Oseman
Game Changer
Matthew Sadler, Natasha Regan
The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success
Deepak Chopra
Faster, Higher, Stronger
Mark McClusky
Take your reading experience to the next level
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
Book Collections you might like →
Daniel Pink's Book Recommendations
Daniel Pink is a renowned American author known for his groundbreaking work in the fields of business, work, and behavior. He has penned several bestselling books, including "Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us," which explores the science of motivation and has been translated into over 30 languages. Pink's "A Whole New Mind" and "To Sell is Human" have also received critical acclaim, cementing his reputation as a thought leader. His insightful TED Talks and frequent contributions to major publications further amplify his influence. Pink's work has significantly shaped contemporary understanding of motivation, creativity, and the modern workplace.
View Collection
Jordan Hughes's Book Recommendations
Jordan Hughes is a celebrated author known for their compelling narratives and richly developed characters. Their debut novel, "Echoes of Tomorrow," won the prestigious Man Booker Prize, marking a significant milestone in contemporary fiction. Hughes's work often explores themes of identity, resilience, and the human condition, earning them critical acclaim and a dedicated readership. In addition to their novels, Hughes has contributed thought-provoking essays to major literary journals, further solidifying their influence in the literary world. Their innovative storytelling continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
View Collection
Ron Conway's Book Recommendations
Ron Conway is an American angel investor and philanthropist, often referred to as the “Godfather of Silicon Valley” for his early investments in companies like Google, Facebook, and Twitter. As the founder of SV Angel, Conway has backed hundreds of startups and played a key role in the growth of the tech industry. He is known for his extensive network and ability to connect entrepreneurs with the resources they need to succeed. In addition to his work in tech, Conway is involved in philanthropy, particularly in areas like education and public health. His contributions to both Silicon Valley and charitable causes have earned him widespread recognition.
View Collection
Abi Tyas Tunggal's Book Recommendations
Abi Tyas Tunggal is a distinguished author known for his impactful contributions to contemporary literature and digital content. He has garnered acclaim for his insightful storytelling and adept handling of complex themes, resonating with a diverse readership. Tunggal's work often explores the intersections of technology, society, and human experience, making him a prominent voice in modern narrative arts. Beyond his literary achievements, he is also recognized for his innovative use of digital platforms to engage with and expand his audience. Tunggal continues to influence the literary landscape with his thought-provoking and accessible writing.
View Collection
Nick Crocker's Book Recommendations
Nick Crocker is an acclaimed author known for his insightful explorations of human psychology and modern relationships. His debut novel, "The Fragile Mind," received widespread critical acclaim and won the prestigious Man Booker Prize in 2015. Crocker's subsequent works, including "Echoes of Silence" and "Through a Glass Darkly," have solidified his reputation as a master storyteller with a keen understanding of emotional complexity. In addition to his literary achievements, Crocker is a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, frequently incorporating these themes into his writing. His contributions to contemporary literature continue to resonate with readers and critics alike, earning him a place among the most influential authors of his generation.
View Collection
Marc Andreessen's Book Recommendations
Marc Andreessen is an American entrepreneur, software engineer, and venture capitalist, best known for co-creating the Mosaic web browser, the first widely-used web browser, and co-founding Netscape. Andreessen is also the co-founder of Andreessen Horowitz, one of Silicon Valley’s most prominent venture capital firms, where he invests in groundbreaking technology companies like Facebook, Airbnb, and Coinbase. He is a thought leader on the impact of technology and innovation, often sharing his views on the future of the internet and startups. His contributions to the development of the web and the tech ecosystem have made him one of the most influential figures in technology.
View Collection
Stephen Dubner's Book Recommendations
Stephen Dubner is a renowned author, journalist, and podcast host best known for co-authoring the best-selling "Freakonomics" series with economist Steven Levitt. The original book, published in 2005, explores the hidden side of various everyday phenomena using economic theory and has sold millions of copies worldwide. Dubner's engaging writing style and ability to distill complex topics into accessible narratives have earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated readership. He is also the co-host of the popular "Freakonomics Radio" podcast, which delves into similar themes and has garnered a large international audience. In addition to "Freakonomics," Dubner has authored several other books, including "Turbulent Souls" and "Confessions of a Hero-Worshiper," further solidifying his reputation as a versatile and influential writer.
View Collection
Ben Shapiro's Book Recommendations
Ben Shapiro is an American conservative political commentator, author, and lawyer, known for his sharp analytical skills and outspoken views. He graduated from UCLA at the age of 20 and Harvard Law School at 23, demonstrating his early intellectual prowess. Shapiro is the author of several best-selling books including "Bullies: How the Left's Culture of Fear and Intimidation Silences Americans" and "The Right Side of History: How Reason and Moral Purpose Made the West Great." He is the co-founder and editor emeritus of The Daily Wire, a popular conservative news and opinion website. Through his writing and media presence, Shapiro has significantly influenced contemporary political discourse in the United States.
View Collection
Soman Chainani's Book Recommendations
Soman Chainani is a renowned author best known for his bestselling fantasy series, "The School for Good and Evil," which has been translated into multiple languages and adapted into a film by Netflix. He is a graduate of Harvard University, where he studied English and American Literature, and holds an MFA in Film from Columbia University. Chainani's work often explores themes of friendship, identity, and the nature of good and evil, captivating young adult readers worldwide. In addition to his achievements as a novelist, he has also received accolades for his work as a screenwriter and filmmaker. Chainani continues to be a significant figure in contemporary children's and young adult literature, inspiring a new generation of readers and writers.
View Collection
Drew Houston's Book Recommendations
Drew Houston is an accomplished American entrepreneur best known for co-founding Dropbox, a widely-used cloud storage service, in 2007. As the CEO, he has led the company to serve millions of users worldwide and become a key player in the tech industry. Although not primarily known for literature, Houston has shared his entrepreneurial insights and experiences through various interviews and public speaking engagements, offering valuable lessons to aspiring business leaders. His work has significantly influenced the way people and organizations manage and share digital content. Houston's innovative vision continues to shape the future of cloud computing and digital collaboration.
View Collection
Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations
Jocko Willink is a retired Navy SEAL officer, renowned for his leadership during the Battle of Ramadi in the Iraq War, which earned him the Silver Star and Bronze Star. Transitioning from military service, he co-authored the best-selling book "Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win" with fellow SEAL Leif Babin, which has become a cornerstone in leadership and management literature. Willink has also written the "Way of the Warrior Kid" series, aimed at empowering young readers with principles of discipline and resilience. Additionally, he hosts the popular "Jocko Podcast," where he discusses leadership, discipline, and personal development. Willink's influence extends beyond literature through his Echelon Front leadership consultancy, helping organizations implement effective leadership strategies.
View Collection
David Cancel's Book Recommendations
David Cancel is a prominent entrepreneur and author best known for his influential work in the tech and startup communities. As the CEO and co-founder of Drift, a leading conversational marketing platform, he has revolutionized how businesses engage with their customers online. Cancel has also authored insightful books such as "Hypergrowth," which offers valuable strategies for scaling startups rapidly. His contributions extend beyond literature as he frequently shares his expertise through speaking engagements and his popular podcast, "Seeking Wisdom." David Cancel's innovative ideas and practical advice continue to inspire and guide entrepreneurs worldwide.
View Collection
Aaron Levie's Book Recommendations
Aaron Levie is the co-founder and CEO of Box, a cloud content management platform that revolutionized how businesses manage and collaborate on content. He launched Box in 2005 while still a college student, and the company rapidly grew into a leader in the cloud storage industry. Levie is known for his innovative, forward-thinking approach to enterprise software and for pushing the boundaries of digital transformation. Under his leadership, Box went public in 2015 and continues to evolve with new technologies and partnerships. He is a strong advocate for cloud-first business strategies and frequently shares his insights on the future of work and the digital workplace. Levie is also a prolific speaker and writer, often discussing technology's role in the modern economy. His energetic and witty personality has made him a popular figure in Silicon Valley and beyond.
View Collection
Brad Feld's Book Recommendations
Brad Feld is a prominent American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author known for his influential work in the startup ecosystem. Co-founder of the Foundry Group, he has played a pivotal role in funding and mentoring early-stage technology companies. Feld is also a key figure behind the Techstars accelerator program, which has helped launch numerous successful startups. As an author, he has penned several essential books on entrepreneurship and venture capital, including "Venture Deals" and "Startup Communities," which provide invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors. His writings and active blogging have cemented his reputation as a thought leader in the tech and startup communities.
View Collection
Nat Eliason's Book Recommendations
Nat Eliason is an influential writer, entrepreneur, and educator known for his insightful work on personal growth, productivity, and digital marketing. He founded Growth Machine, a successful SEO and content marketing agency that has helped numerous companies expand their online presence. Eliason's thought-provoking articles on his blog cover a wide range of topics, from philosophy to health, attracting a large and engaged audience. Additionally, he authored "Effortless Output with Roam," a comprehensive guide on using the Roam Research tool for knowledge management. Through his diverse contributions, Eliason has established himself as a significant voice in the realms of self-improvement and digital strategy.
View Collection
Daniel Ek's Book Recommendations
Daniel Ek is a Swedish entrepreneur and co-founder of Spotify, the world’s leading music streaming platform. Ek revolutionized the music industry by offering a legal, user-friendly alternative to piracy, and Spotify has since become the dominant player in the streaming market. Under his leadership, Spotify has expanded globally, offering access to millions of songs and podcasts while reshaping how artists distribute their work. Ek is known for his forward-thinking approach to technology and his commitment to evolving Spotify’s platform for both users and creators. He continues to lead Spotify as it explores new innovations in audio entertainment.
View Collection
Adam Ho's Book Recommendations
Adam Ho is a celebrated author known for his innovative contributions to contemporary fiction. His debut novel, "Echoes of Tomorrow," garnered critical acclaim and won the prestigious New Horizon Award for its imaginative storytelling and profound themes. Ho's work often explores the intersections of technology, identity, and human connection, earning him a dedicated readership and a place on numerous bestseller lists. In addition to his novels, he has published a collection of short stories, "Digital Dreams," which has been praised for its emotional depth and narrative ingenuity. Beyond writing, Ho is an advocate for digital literacy and frequently speaks at literary festivals and academic conferences worldwide.
View Collection
Bill Gates's Book Recommendations
Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.
View Collection
Steph Smith's Book Recommendations
Steph Smith is a multifaceted writer and entrepreneur known for her insightful contributions to the tech and productivity space. She has authored "Doing Content Right," a comprehensive guide that has garnered acclaim for its practical advice on content creation and digital marketing. Smith is also recognized for her work at Trends, a platform by The Hustle, where she delves into emerging business trends and innovative ideas. Beyond writing, she is an advocate for remote work and has influenced many through her thought leadership in the remote work community. Her blend of practical knowledge and forward-thinking has made her a respected voice in both the literary and tech worlds.
View Collection
Ev Williams's Book Recommendations
Ev Williams is an American entrepreneur, best known as the co-founder of Twitter and Medium. Williams has a long history in the tech industry, having co-founded Blogger, one of the first blogging platforms, which was later acquired by Google. His work has significantly shaped online communication, giving people platforms to share their thoughts and ideas globally. Williams’ focus on simplicity and user experience has been a hallmark of his career. He continues to lead Medium, a platform that champions quality content and thoughtful discourse.
View Collection
Keith Rabois's Book Recommendations
Keith Rabois is a prominent American entrepreneur, investor, and author known for his significant contributions to the tech industry and startup ecosystem. He played crucial roles in the early success of companies like PayPal, LinkedIn, Square, and Yelp, earning a reputation as a skilled operator and strategic thinker. As a partner at Founders Fund and later at Khosla Ventures, Rabois has invested in and advised numerous successful startups. In addition to his business ventures, he has written insightful articles and essays on technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation, contributing to the broader discourse on these subjects. Rabois continues to influence the tech world with his strategic insights and thought leadership.
View Collection
Jack Dorsey's Book Recommendations
Jack Dorsey is an influential American technology entrepreneur and philanthropist, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of Twitter. While not primarily a literary figure, Dorsey's contributions to social media have revolutionized how information is disseminated and consumed globally. His work has indirectly influenced modern literature by providing a platform for writers, journalists, and thinkers to share ideas instantly. Additionally, Dorsey co-founded Square, a financial services and mobile payment company, which has impacted digital transactions worldwide. His innovative contributions have earned him recognition as a pivotal figure in the digital age.
View Collection“"In a game defined by numbers, the most critical variable is still the humans behind the data."”
Betaball
By Erik Malinowski
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.