Basketball and Philosophy

What can the film Hoosiers teach us about the meaning of life? How can ancient Eastern wisdom traditions, such as Taoism and Zen buddhism, improve our jump-shots? What can the "Zen Master" (Phil Jackson) and the "Big Aristotle" (Shaquille O'Neal) teach us about sustained excellence and success? Is women's basketball "better" basketball? How, ethically, should one deal with a strategic cheater in pickup basketball? With NBA and NCAA team rosters constantly changing, what does it mean to play for the "same team"? What can coaching legends Dean Smith, Rick Pitino, Pat Summitt, and Mike Krzyzewski teach us about character, achievement, and competition? What makes basketball such a beautiful game to watch and play? In Basketball and Philosophy , a Dream Team of twenty-six academics trained in philosophy--also diehard hoops fans--proves that basketball is the thinking fan's sport. Whether you play basketball, coach it, or just love to watch it, this book will forever enrich your understanding and appreciation of the game.

Jerry L. Walls, professor of philosophy of religion at Asbury Theological Seminary, is the author of The Problem of Pluralism: Recovering United Methodist Identity.

Gregory Bassham, department chair and professor of philosophy at King's College, is coeditor of several books, including The Lord of the Rings and Philosophy: One Book to Rule Them All.