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by Robin Sharma
Loose Balls summary
Terry Pluto
Brief summary
Loose Balls by Terry Pluto is a captivating and humorous account of the American Basketball Association. It delves into the league's wild and colorful history, showcasing the unique characters and groundbreaking innovations that shaped the game.
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Table of Contents
Loose Balls
Summary of key ideas
The Creation of the ABA
In Loose Balls, Terry Pluto takes us back to the 1960s, when the American Basketball Association (ABA) was born. The ABA was established as a rival to the National Basketball Association (NBA), and it was a league where the game was played with a different kind of intensity and flair. The ABA was a league of firsts, introducing the three-point line, the slam-dunk contest, and the now-iconic red, white, and blue basketball.
Pluto introduces us to the colorful characters who made the ABA what it was. We meet the league's founders, such as Dennis Murphy and Gary Davidson, who were willing to take a risk to challenge the NBA's dominance. We also meet the players, many of whom were young, talented, and ambitious, ready to prove themselves in a league that was seen as the NBA's renegade cousin.
The Wild and Wacky ABA
The ABA was known for its wild and wacky style of play. It was a league that celebrated individuality and showmanship, and it wasn't uncommon for players to take risks and try outlandish moves on the court. Teams were known for their high-scoring games, and the league had a reputation for its fast pace and high-flying dunks.
Pluto captures the unique spirit of the ABA, recounting memorable moments such as the introduction of the three-point line and the slam-dunk contest. He also delves into the league's off-court antics, from the outrageous promotions to the financial struggles that were a constant threat to the ABA's survival.
The Players and Their Stories
One of the highlights of Loose Balls is Pluto's focus on the players themselves. He provides an intimate look at some of the ABA's most iconic figures, such as Julius Erving, George Gervin, and Rick Barry. These players, often young and inexperienced, were the lifeblood of the ABA, and their stories provide a fascinating insight into the league's culture and challenges.
We learn about the players' personal struggles, their rivalries, and their relentless pursuit of success. We also witness the impact of the ABA-NBA merger, which saw some ABA teams and players absorbed into the NBA, while others were left behind.
The Legacy of the ABA
In the final chapters of Loose Balls, Pluto reflects on the ABA's legacy. While the league itself may have been short-lived, its influence on the game of basketball has been enduring. Many of the ABA's innovations, such as the three-point line and the emphasis on individual creativity, have become integral parts of the modern game.
The ABA also left behind a rich cultural legacy. It was a league that celebrated diversity and embraced new ideas, and its impact can still be felt in the way we think about basketball today. In conclusion, Loose Balls is a captivating and insightful look at a league that, while often overshadowed, played a crucial role in shaping the game of basketball as we know it.
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What is Loose Balls about?
Loose Balls is a fascinating and entertaining account of the American Basketball Association (ABA), a league that existed in the 1970s and had a significant impact on the sport. Written by Terry Pluto, this book delves into the untold stories, colorful characters, and wild antics that defined the ABA. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at the league's rise and eventual merger with the NBA, showcasing the passion and innovation that forever changed the game of basketball.
Loose Balls Review
Loose Balls (1990) captures the wild and untamed world of the American Basketball Association. Here's why this book is a great read:
- It unveils untold stories and behind-the-scenes moments, offering a fresh perspective on basketball history.
- Through candid interviews and colorful anecdotes, it brings to life the vibrant personalities and eccentric characters of the ABA era.
- The book's humorous tone and fast-paced narrative make it an absolute page-turner, ensuring that boredom is never an option.
Who should read Loose Balls?
Enthusiastic basketball fans looking for an inside look at the history of the sport
Readers who enjoy entertaining and humorous sports stories
Those interested in the business and behind-the-scenes aspects of professional basketball
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Loose Balls FAQs
What is the main message of Loose Balls?
The main message of Loose Balls is a raw and uncensored behind-the-scenes look at the ABA and its colorful characters.
How long does it take to read Loose Balls?
Reading Loose Balls takes several hours, but the Blinkist summary can be read in just a few minutes.
Is Loose Balls a good book? Is it worth reading?
Loose Balls is a must-read for basketball fans, providing fascinating insights into the wild world of the ABA.
Who is the author of Loose Balls?
The author of Loose Balls is Terry Pluto.
What to read after Loose Balls?
If you're wondering what to read next after Loose Balls, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Simply Complexity by Neil F. Johnson
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