Loose Balls 

By Jason Williams with Steve Friedman

Ranking: 

Williams has been known for a long time as one of the best quotes in the National Basketball Association.  This book shows you why.  He's brutally honest, much in a Charles Barkley type of way, but without quite the zingy wit. 

The book covers a variety of topics, from players he plays against, to college, high school, growing up, off the court, and much more.  He covers his wild days as a young player, his dislike of younger players who aren't willing to work, and he spends a great deal of time explaining why he believes in the importance of giving back to the community.

Williams is quite transparent, admitting his faults and his successes in equal measure.  He isn't afraid to make a joke at his own expense, or to give praise to a teammate, coach, or opponent.

This book is a refreshing and honest view of what it is like to be a NBA player.  Too bad that after I read this, I learned he's a prick and a killer.

Loose Balls.  Jason Williams with Steve Friedman.  Doubleday.  1999.

Introspection:  5
Insight:  5
History:  1989-99
Readability:  5