Book Review: This Was Never About Basketball (The Zeke Archer Basketball Trilogy)
When I first heard about This Was Never About Basketball, I was intrigued by the idea of a coming-of-age story intertwined with sports, magic realism, and a quest to save something as beloved as basketball. Craig Leener has crafted a novel that promises not just thrilling hoops action but also profound life lessons—and I have to say, it delivered on all fronts.
Seventeen-year-old Ezekiel “Zeke” Archer starts the story as a high school basketball star with a full scholarship to a powerhouse university. However, a moment of poor judgment during the city championship game leads to his expulsion and the sudden loss of his future dream. The unraveling of Zeke’s life is gripping, and as he finds himself stuck in a second-chance school in California, he embarks on a surreal road trip that forces him to confront his past and ultimately the existential threat to the game he loves: the mysterious disappearance of basketball from Earth orchestrated by a cosmic entity.
The narrative is rich but accessible, layered with themes of redemption, friendship, and the complexities of family relationships. Zeke’s journey is not merely a physical one; it’s emotional and introspective. With the help of an unexpected friend—an autistic classmate named Lawrence—Zeke learns the importance of empathy, collaboration, and understanding. This relationship is beautifully portrayed, reflecting real human connections that show how our vulnerabilities can bring us closer together.
Leener’s writing style is both engaging and humorous, with a narrative voice that feels authentic and relatable. I particularly appreciated the pacing; the book balances moments of humor with more serious reflections, allowing for character growth without sacrificing the joy of the journey. The plot twists keep you invested, and the scenes transition smoothly as Zeke rushes to save basketball, and in many ways, himself.
One review encapsulated this sentiment perfectly, noting that “it was never just about basketball.” The title rings true as the book peels back layers to reveal deeper truths about identity and belonging. I found myself chuckling at one moment and holding my breath in suspense the next, especially as Zeke confronts his estranged father and grapples with his brother’s deployment overseas.
Leener also touches on the intricacies of teamwork and sacrifice, reminding us that achieving our goals often requires cooperation and mending relationships with those we’ve wronged. The pulse of this heartfelt saga is perfectly captured in moments where Zeke learns that it’s not just about winning the game, but about the bonds we form along the way.
Overall, This Was Never About Basketball is more than a sports novel; it’s a reflection on youth, struggles, and what it means to truly connect. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys a poignant coming-of-age story, especially young adults navigating their formative years. It’s the kind of book that transcends age, with valuable lessons for any reader, and it’s sure to resonate deeply, especially with those who know the beauty of finding one’s path through chaos.
In short, grab a copy, lay back, and allow Zeke’s journey to inspire your own as you reflect on your personal goals, your relationships, and the thing you hold dear. Whether you love basketball or are merely looking for an engaging story about growth and resilience, this book is poised to leave a lasting impression.
You can find This Was Never About Basketball (The Zeke Archer Basketball Trilogy) here >>