Shea Serrano Explores the Essence of Basketball in “Expensive Basketball”
Shea Serrano has carved a unique niche as a sports and pop culture writer, seamlessly weaving together the realms of basketball, film, and hip-hop. His distinctive approach allows him to unpack these topics with a broad perspective while maintaining an unmistakable personal touch. In a landscape flooded with opinions and analyses, Serrano’s writing transcends mere hot takes; it embodies a mastery of style that resonates deeply with readers.
A New Addition to Serrano’s Bibliography
Serrano’s latest release, *Expensive Basketball*, hit the shelves on October 27, and it quickly secured a spot on the New York Times bestseller list. This book marks his second foray into basketball literature, following the success of *Basketball (And Other Things)*, and it stands as his fifth overall publication. The engaging prose in *Expensive Basketball* is complemented by striking illustrations from Ian Klarer, which add a graphic novel flair to the narrative.
Unpacking the Concept of “Expensive Basketball”
What exactly does Serrano mean by “expensive basketball”? In a recent conversation, he shared insights into the creative process behind this intriguing title. “I knew I wanted to write a basketball book, but it evolved into figuring out the ‘what’ and ‘how,'” he explained. The journey began with a simple yet pivotal question: What would the book’s central hook be? Serrano explored various concepts, contemplating topics ranging from Tim Duncan to the legendary Lakers of the early 2000s.
To refine his ideas, he engaged friends and colleagues in casual discussions, asking them to share their favorite basketball memories. “I kept asking everybody the same question, which was, ‘Tell me about your favorite basketball memory,'” Serrano recounted. The consistency in their responses revealed a universal connection to the game, reinforcing the notion that basketball transcends mere statistics.
The Role of Numbers in the Game
Serrano emphasizes the importance of statistics, but he also argues that numbers should serve a greater narrative rather than dominate it. “The book has a lot of numbers in there…but they’re important when they’re in service of something else,” he stated. Serrano asserts that numbers can contextualize emotions and experiences but are never the sole reason for a fan’s love for the game. This philosophy is woven throughout *Expensive Basketball*, providing a rich backdrop for the stories within.
Magic Johnson: A Revolutionary Force
Nowhere is this interplay of narratives and statistics more evident than in Serrano’s exploration of Magic Johnson. When Johnson entered the NBA as the No. 1 pick in the 1979-80 draft, he quickly transformed the league with his extraordinary talent. As a 6-foot-9 point guard, he led the fast-paced Showtime Lakers and became a pioneer in reshaping how basketball was played. Serrano notes that Johnson’s greatness was so apparent that it prompted the invention of the triple-double statistic, a testament to his impact on the game.
Luka Doncic: A Modern-Day Maestro
Fast forward to the present, and the current Lakers’ standout, Luka Doncic, mirrors some aspects of Johnson’s game. While his style differs—favoring a more methodical approach—Doncic remains a formidable triple-double threat, consistently engaging his teammates. This season, he has found an unexpected ally in Austin Reaves, who has emerged as a crucial playmaker for the Lakers.
Imagining a Team with Johnson and Doncic
Serrano posits an intriguing scenario: what if Magic Johnson were to play alongside Luka Doncic? “I think Magic Johnson is the greatest point guard who has ever lived,” he asserts. The implication is clear—Johnson’s presence would elevate the performance of any team, just as Steve Nash did for the Phoenix Suns during his prime. Serrano suggests that having Johnson on the court would not only enhance Doncic’s game but also reduce the energy he expends to score.
In a season where the Lakers currently stand at 10-4, one can’t help but wonder how the team would fare with Johnson’s unparalleled playmaking skills, further fueling the excitement surrounding *Expensive Basketball* and its profound insights into the game.
