In 'Play Their Hearts Out,' George Dohrmann explores the intense world of youth basketball, revealing the dreams and pressures faced by talented kids and their families. Through compelling narratives, he unveils the often harsh realities behind the glittering facade of the sport, spotlighting the relentless pursuit of success. As he chronicles the lives of aspiring athletes, Dohrmann raises questions about ambition, exploitation, and the real cost of chasing glory. This gripping tale uncovers the darker side of youth athletics while celebrating the resilience of young players. Will they soar to greatness, or will the system break their spirits?
By George Dohrmann
Published: 2012
"In the world of youth basketball, where dreams collide with harsh realities, every layup and every loss tells a story of ambition, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of glory."
“A tour de force of reporting” (The Washington Post) from a Pulitzer–prize winning journalist that examines the often-corrupt machine producing America’s basketball stars “Indispensable.”—The Wall Street Journal “Often heart-breaking, always riveting.”—The New York Times Book Review “Tremendous.”—The Plain Dealer Winner of the PEN/ESPN Award for Literary Sportswriting• Winner of the Award for Excellence in the Coverage of Youth Sports Using eight years of unfettered access and a keen sense of a story’s deepest truths, journalist George Dohrmann reveals a cutthroat world where boys as young as eight or nine are subjected to a dizzying torrent of scrutiny and exploitation. At the book’s heart are the personal stories of two compelling figures: Joe Keller, an ambitious coach with a master plan to find and promote “the next LeBron,” and Demetrius Walker, a fatherless latchkey kid who falls under Keller’s sway and struggles to live up to unrealistic expectations. Complete with a new “where-are-they-now” epilogue by the author, Play Their Hearts Out is a thoroughly compelling narrative exposing the gritty reality that lies beneath so many dreams of fame and glory. One of GQ’S 50 Best Books of Literary Journalism of the 21st Century • One of the Best Books of the Year: Los Angeles Times, The Christian Science Monitor, Kirkus Reviews This edition includes an exclusive conversation between George Dohrmann and bestselling author Seth Davis.
Showing 8 of 26 similar books
Jeff Jordan is a celebrated American author renowned for his compelling works in contemporary fiction. He gained critical acclaim with his debut novel, "The Silent Echoes," which won the prestigious National Book Award. Jordan's intricate storytelling and deep character development have earned him a dedicated readership and numerous accolades. Beyond his novels, he has contributed thought-provoking essays to major literary magazines, enriching the discourse on modern societal themes. Jordan continues to influence the literary world with his innovative narratives and profound insights.
Josh Waitzkin is a renowned chess prodigy whose life inspired the film "Searching for Bobby Fischer." He earned the title of National Master at the age of 13 and later became an International Master. Transitioning from chess, Waitzkin achieved national championship titles in Tai Chi Chuan. His literary contribution includes the bestselling book "The Art of Learning," which explores the process of mastering any skill. Waitzkin is also the co-founder of the JW Foundation, which promotes the cultivation of learning and performance in children.
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.
Dave Elitch is a renowned drummer and educator, best known for his dynamic and innovative drumming techniques. Though primarily celebrated for his contributions to the music industry, Elitch has authored several influential articles and educational materials on drumming, solidifying his reputation as a thought leader in the field. His work has been featured in prestigious music publications, where he shares his insights on rhythm, technique, and the art of performance. Elitch's dedication to teaching has also led him to conduct masterclasses worldwide, inspiring a new generation of drummers. His contributions have significantly impacted both the practical and theoretical aspects of modern drumming.
Dan Gable is a legendary American wrestler and coach, renowned for his unparalleled achievements in the sport. He won an Olympic gold medal in freestyle wrestling at the 1972 Munich Games without conceding a single point. As the head coach at the University of Iowa, Gable led his team to 15 NCAA team titles between 1976 and 1997. His contributions to literature include his motivational and instructional books on wrestling, such as "A Wrestling Life: The Inspiring Stories of Dan Gable" and "Coaching Wrestling Successfully," which have inspired countless athletes and coaches. Gable's legacy extends beyond the mat, as he continues to influence the wrestling community through his writings and public speaking.
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.
Ryan Holiday is a bestselling author and media strategist known for his books on stoicism, including The Obstacle Is the Way and Ego Is the Enemy. He is a leading voice in modern stoic philosophy, teaching readers how to apply ancient wisdom to achieve personal and professional success. Holiday’s work emphasizes resilience, discipline, and humility as keys to navigating life’s challenges. He has consulted with major companies and individuals on marketing and strategy, blending stoic principles with contemporary business practices. His books have been translated into over 30 languages.
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.
Showing 8 of 21 related collections
“In the world of youth basketball, where dreams collide with harsh realities, every layup and every loss tells a story of ambition, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of glory.”
Play Their Hearts Out
By George Dohrmann
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
George Dohrmann is an accomplished American journalist and author, renowned for his compelling narratives and in-depth reporting on sports and culture. A former staff writer for Sports Illustrated, Dohrmann's notable works include the critically acclaimed book 'Play Their Hearts Out,' which provides a profound examination of youth basketball and the pressures faced by aspiring athletes. His writing style is characterized by rich detail, a keen sense of observation, and a commitment to uncovering the underlying truths of his subjects. His work has earned him both the George Polk Award and the Associated Press Sports Editors' Award, establishing him as a prominent voice in sports journalism.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Born to Run invites readers on an exhilarating journey into the hidden world of ultra-running, where the limits of human endurance are pushed to astonishing extremes. Christopher McDougall chronicles his quest to discover why we are meant to run and the extraordinary Tarahumara tribe, renowned for their incredible speed and stamina. With captivating tales of unlikely athletes, scientific insights, and a spirited quest for a mythical race, this book challenges conventional wisdom about running and life. As McDougall uncovers secrets to joy in movement, readers are left to ponder: what truly lies within our own potential? Lace up your sneakers and prepare to be inspired to embrace the wild runner inside you!
Unlock the secrets to conquering your next marathon or half-marathon with "The Runner’s World Big Book of Marathon and Half-Marathon Training." This comprehensive guide offers tailored training plans, expert tips, and motivational stories from seasoned runners to elevate your performance. Discover how nutrition, injury prevention, and mental strategies can transform your running journey into an exhilarating experience. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned athlete, you'll find the insights needed to enhance your stamina and speed. Ready to take the first step toward your personal best?
In 'Eleven Rings', Phil Jackson, legendary NBA coach, takes readers on an incredible journey through his basketball career and the philosophies that led him to win eleven championships with the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers. With deep insights into the art of leadership and team dynamics, Jackson reveals the importance of mindfulness, spirituality, and connection in achieving greatness. Each ring tells a story of triumph, adversity, and the unique personalities that shaped these historic teams. Drawing from Eastern philosophies and his own experiences, Jackson challenges the traditional approaches to coaching and success. This memoir isn't just a chronicle of victories; it's a profound reflection on the deeper meanings of teamwork, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.
In 'A Fighter's Heart,' Sam Sheridan takes readers on a thrilling journey into the intense world of martial arts. He intricately weaves personal anecdotes with the stories of legendary fighters, revealing the profound psychological and physical demands of combat sports. As he trains alongside the best, Sheridan explores themes of courage, vulnerability, and the fierce desire to conquer both the ring and oneself. With vivid descriptions and raw emotions, the narrative challenges the reader to consider the nature of true strength and what it means to fight for one's passion. This gripping memoir will leave you questioning your limits and inspire you to pursue your own battles with unyielding resolve.
In 'The Fundamental Wisdom of the Middle Way', Nagarjuna unravels the intricate tapestry of Buddhist philosophy through his seminal work, the Mulamadhyamakakarika. He challenges our understanding of reality by presenting the concept of emptiness, urging readers to transcend dualistic thinking. His profound arguments invite contemplation on the nature of existence, suffering, and liberation. This text serves not only as a philosophical treatise but also as a guide for spiritual awakening. Engage with Nagarjuna’s insights and discover the transformative power of the Middle Way.
In 'Endure', Alex Hutchinson explores the limits of human endurance, combining cutting-edge science with gripping personal stories. From athletes pushing their physical boundaries to the mental fortitude required for extreme challenges, the book uncovers what truly drives us to persist against all odds. Hutchinson delves into fascinating research that reveals how our brain's perception of pain can influence performance. With insights from psychology, physiology, and sports, this riveting narrative invites readers to rethink their own limitations. Are we capable of far more than we ever imagined? The answer awaits within.
In 'Fantasy Life', Matthew Berry invites readers into the whimsical and sometimes chaotic world of fantasy sports, where passion and statistics collide in delightful ways. With a blend of humor and personal anecdotes, he explores the transformative power of fantasy games on friendships, rivalries, and even life perspectives. Berry's narrative offers a unique glimpse into the behind-the-scenes of major sporting events and the quirky lives of dedicated fans. As he shares both triumphs and tribulations, the allure of fantasy sports emerges as more than just a game—it's a way of life. Will Berry's insights inspire you to take the plunge into this fascinating realm?
'An Elementary Primer for Gauge Theory' by K. Moriyasu serves as an accessible introduction to the complex world of gauge theory, a fundamental concept in modern physics. Moriyasu demystifies intricate ideas, making them approachable for readers with a basic understanding of the subject. This book not only covers the theoretical underpinnings but also presents real-world applications, igniting curiosity about its implications in particle physics. With clear explanations and practical examples, it invites readers to explore the elegant interplay between symmetry and physical laws. Dive into this primer for a captivating journey through the fabric of our universe!