Hoop Dreams Fulfilled Book Review

I've recently read the book Hoop Dreams Fulfilled: An Athlete's Failures and Redemption on His Journey to Professional Basketball by Tyson Hartnett. Take a few minutes to read the review below, watch the trailer and check out Tyson's website. Any athlete who has felt that all odds were against them will be able to relate.

For more info check out Tyson's website: http://www.hoopdreamsfulfilled.com/

Hoop Dreams Fulfilled: An Athlete's Failures and Redemption on His Journey to Professional Basketball 

by Tyson Hartnett

It is impossible to read this book and ignore how your passion shaped your life. Whether you’re passionate about golf, sewing, reading, drawing, gardening, scrap booking or collecting cats, this book will resonate with you. This authentic account brings you through: Tyson the Boy, Tyson the Young Man, Tyson College Athlete, Tyson the Lost, and Tyson the Professional.

After reading this account of Tyson, I’ve come to realize 3 things about myself:

1. I wasn’t alone even when I felt some of those same feelings in my basketball career,

2. I am truly happy with the decisions I’ve made in life, and

3. I’d be lost if there was no basketball in my life.

People need to hear and be exposed to Tyson’s story. It’s great being recognized by your family and peers for something you've put your whole heart and soul into. It feels wonderful being heralded as the best. And nothing compares to the joy you feel when you know you’re on your way to achieving your goal.

But what’s the cost?

Tyson showed by committing himself to earning a D1 basketball scholarship he distanced himself from friends because many people didn’t match his work ethic. Tyson showed the other side of the coin, the business of athletics. Tyson showed the ugly truth of not living up to someone else’s expectations. Tyson showed what it’s like not being able to live up to your own expectations.

Although it was a couple years prior to Tyson, I went through many of the same basketball camps, AAU tournaments, D1 program and various agents to get contracts to play basketball overseas. I can say that Tyson’s account is more than authentic. It’s heart breaking. Reflecting on the book, Tyson had so many people in his corner to support and assist him achieve his goals, yet, he seemed utterly alone and unprepared throughout the journey.

 

When I was reading I couldn’t help but ask my Kindle how could his parents let all of these bad things happen to him? If Tyson were so committed, dedicated and focused, why would he do stupid things to jeopardize his progress towards being a successful basketball player?

Although Tyson didn’t say these words, the point was made loud and clear. Everyone needs balance. In fact, it was my biggest take away from reading this gripping account. I want to know where were his parents.

Overall, this book was interesting and authentic. Would I recommend this book to someone? Of course I would. Not because I feel like I know Tyson, but because his message is clear. No one is going to hand you anything in life. You need to out work the person next to you. Grab life by the horns and hold on because it’s going to be a bumpy ride. Be satisfied knowing you gave your best effort. And above all, good things happen when you work hard, bad things happen when you don’t.