Hey everyone, it’s your boy back again with another deep dive into something that’s been on my mind lately. Today, I wanna talk about this book I’ve been digging into, “Becoming Kareem.” Now, I gotta say, it’s been a minute since I got hooked on a book like this, but this one? This one’s got me.
So, I picked up this book, not really knowing what to expect. I mean, we all know Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, right? The basketball legend. But this book, it’s about how he got there. How a kid named Lew Alcindor turned into Kareem. Sounds pretty simple, but let me tell you, it’s a journey.
First off, I started reading, and boom, I’m right there with young Kareem in New York. This kid’s dealing with a lot – strict parents, racism, the whole nine yards. It’s like, you think you know someone because they’re famous, but then you get a glimpse of their early life, and it’s a whole different ball game.
As I kept turning the pages, I’m seeing this shy, tall kid grow. He’s not just getting taller; he’s learning, adapting, and facing some tough stuff. And basketball? That’s his escape, his passion. I’m following him through high school, where he’s killing it on the court, setting records, and all that. But it’s not just about the wins; it’s about the struggles too, the prejudice he faced, the expectations.
Key Moments in Young Kareem’s Journey
- High School Domination: I’m reading about these games, 95-6 win-loss record, can you believe that? It’s insane! Alcindor was a beast, but it wasn’t just handed to him.
- Facing Reality: The book doesn’t shy away from the tough topics. Racism, prejudice – it’s all there. It’s a reminder that even legends had to fight through some dark times.
- Finding His Identity: This is where it gets deep. Alcindor starts to find himself, not just as a player, but as a person. The transition to Kareem, it’s not just a name change; it’s a whole transformation.
Then, I got to the part about him going to college. He’s still playing ball, still dominating, but there’s more to his story now. He’s becoming more aware of the world around him, the social issues, and he’s not staying silent. That’s what really struck me – this guy’s not just about basketball; he’s about making a difference.
I kept reading, and by the time I finished the book, I felt like I’d been on this journey with him. From Lew Alcindor to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, it’s a story of growth, resilience, and standing up for what you believe in. And let me tell you, it’s inspiring as hell.
So, that’s my take on “Becoming Kareem.” It’s more than just a sports memoir; it’s a story about life, about overcoming obstacles, and about becoming the person you’re meant to be. If you’re looking for something that’s gonna make you think, and maybe even inspire you a little, I highly recommend giving this one a read. Trust me; it’s worth it.
Alright, that’s it for today’s post. Catch you all in the next one. Peace out!
