Ira Berkow steps out from behind his New York Times reporter's notebook to spin the tales of his life as a pickup basketball player—running the court with Oscar Robertson, talking strategy with Walt Frazier, and finding fellowship and good humor across the country on playgrounds, in gyms, even in some of the world's famous arenas. Mr. Berkow shares his enduring passion for the hardwood, which began in his boyhood in Chicago in the 1940s and '50s and has continued with the same vigor and competitive fire of his youth, often against opponents half his age. To the Hoop tells the story of a year in his basketball life, as he resolves to enhance his game and stave off the ravages of time. It's a wonderful and moving tale of love—for the game, for his friends and family, and for life itself.

"An extraordinary look into the art of pickup basketball. Who would have guessed that, along with his writing talents, Ira knows how to play the game!"—Bill Bradley

"A wonderful book—not just for basketball fans but for everyone."—Earvin "Magic" Johnson

"Ira Berkow is one of the best sportswriters around, so it is no surprise that his basketball odyssey is one of the best sports books of this or any other year."—George Plimpton