Why She Plays: The World of Women's Basketball

By Christine A. Baker and Eden O'Neill

Book Overview

Why does she play basketball? Since the enactment of Title IX in 1972, that question has come to be asked of more girls and women--and answered in more ways--than ever before. Christine A. Baker, herself an avid player and an assistant coach, pursues an answer through the ranks of the sport from youth basketball to the WNBA.

Baker sets the stage with a quick look at current statistics and trends in women's basketball nationwide, noting the profound changes in the last thirty-five years. A series of exclusive interviews then takes us into the heart and soul of the sport. Her subjects are players and coaches, from neophytes to stars such as Dawn Staley and Nancy Lieberman; from legendary coaches such as Jody Conradt to the masterminds of USA Basketball and the 1996 Women's Dream Team; from Donna Lopiano, former CEO of the Women's Sports Foundation, to tomorrow's Olympic athletes. A richly detailed, all-encompassing portrait of the sport, these interviews offer a wealth of insight into the game, American sports culture, and, indeed, why Baker plays.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0803216335
• ISBN13: 9780803216334
• Release Date: December 2008
• Publisher: Bison Books
• Length: 216 Pages
• Weight: 0.60 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.5" x 8.3"

Customer Reviews

Inspiring

I originally bought this for my mom who loves women's basketball, but I am so glad that I read it first. This was a truly inspiring read. I don't play basketball and never really have (..except one unfortunate time..). The book spoke to me in a surprising way as a mother of a young daughter and a woman. What I found so compelling was story after story about individuals who feel passionately about something, in this case basketball, and pursue their dreams with persistence. From young kids to professional basketball players and those in between (including the author), I found myself relating to the characters on so many levels. The author has a gift for writing and story-telling that made it difficult to put down, and when I was done, I missed it. I highly recommend it.

Hear me somebody

This is a fine examination of the reason girls and women like to participate in sports. More people--parents, teaches, especially coaches--need to listen to the reasons. Girls can play, too, and they have their own reasons. If you coach or have a daughter who plays, you need to read this book.

Read Why She Plays

Why She Plays is an essential read for basketball players, fans, coaches, and anyone else who enjoys a well-written and captivating book. The author passionately recalls her own successful basketball career, and also details the experiences of famous and well-known people who have made an impact on the sport. Why She Plays is honest, facinating, intriguing, and there is no doubt that the author is a true lover of basketball and if you are too, it would be a shame to miss out on the opportunity to read this book.

Why She Plays

I have been looking forward to reading, "Why She Plays" for months and this book did not disappoint! It is a revealing account of a woman's relationship with the game of basketball. The author writes about the influence basketball has had on her own journey and that of others. She writes of where the women's game was, is, and where it is going. There were certain parts that brought tears to my eyes because I could feel this author's passion, and her absolute need to write this book. Readers will find it to be inspiring! Highly recommended!

WHY SHE PLAYS

Whether you are an athlete or not - WHY SHE PLAYS by Christine Baker is an inspiration to all. From a young tender age Ms. Baker fell in love with Basketball. In her book she shares her thoughts and feelings about the game as well as her dream to become a professional player. WHY SHE PLAYS is mixed with interviews from well known basketball figures including WNBA players Becky Hammon and Diana Taurasi; and sports commentators and former players Doris Burke and Nancy Lieberman. Ms Baker's voice touches everyones hearts and desires to compete and strive to be the best you can be. Read the book and find out WHY SHE PLAYS? You'll be glad you did.