Shot Clock - by Caron Butler & Justin A Reynolds (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Former NBA All-Star Caron Butler and acclaimed author Justin A. Reynolds tip off the first book in a new middle grade series about a young boy trying to make his mark on an AAU basketball team coached by a former NBA star in his hometown. Perfect for fans of The Crossover and the Track series. A Junior Library Guild Selection!

Tony loves basketball. But the game changed recently when his best friend, Dante, a hoops phenom, was killed by a police officer. Tony hopes he can carry on Dante's legacy by making the Sabres, the AAU basketball team Dante took to two national championships.

Tony doesn't make the team, but Coach James likes what he sees from Tony at tryouts and offers him another chance: join the team as the statistician. With his community reeling and the team just finding its footing on the court, can Tony find a path to healing while helping to bring the Sabres a championship?

Review Quotes

"An inspirational story that shows that while reality can at times be too sad to bear, it can also--with the support of loved ones--be filled with hope." - Booklist

"This bustling narrative is brimming with exciting, detailed basketball scenes and moving life lessons about the things one takes for granted, the importance of community, and the will to succeed despite stacked odds." - Publishers Weekly

"The story is notable for its consideration of racism, justice, inequality, and trauma along with exciting basketball action and memorable characters." - The Horn Book

"A provocative shot." - Kirkus Reviews