Reviews

Gr 5-8‘This title explains the basic skills required of an effective offensive basketball player. Dribbling, passing, shooting, rebounding, and team play are all described in individual chapters, and drills that can be used to further one's abilities in each area are demonstrated. Each chapter begins with NBA players and coaches discussing the importance of learning a particular skill as part of being a well-balanced offensive player. Suggestions on how to improve one's game in each area follow, along with drills that players and teams can perform to hone individual skills. Full-color photographs of NBA stars in action and ethnically diverse youngsters of both sexes going through the drills are included. There's also a chapter in which more than 20 plays are diagrammed. Vancil's NBA Basketball Basics (Sterling, 1995) presents both offensive and defensive skills in a similar format. While there's some repetition, the new title includes all new photographs and an expanded explanation of offensive play. Solid information and an eye-pleasing format make it a good choice.‘Tom S. Hurlburt, La Crosse Public Library, WI

One of the key features in the rise in popularity of the National Basketball Association (NBA) over the past 15 years has been the league's savvy use of marketing. A good example is the NBA's cooperation in the production of this glossy instructional guide, as it is thoroughly unlike any of the dull sports how-to books crowding library shelves. Chapters of NBA Basketball Basics cover topics such as ball-handling, passing, shooting, defense, and conditioning. Basic rules, positions, and plays are also explained. Each chapter describes the fundamentals of the topic, offers practice drills for both individuals and teams, and includes basic coaching tips. The entire book is richly illustrated with color action shots of current NBA stars as well as color photos of girls and boys of all ages demonstrating the drills. The writing is clear, and the graphical design is very appealing. This title should be in demand in public libraries.‘John Maxymuk, Rutgers Univ. Lib., Camden, N.J.