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Why She Plays: The World of Women's Basketball

An enlightening exploration of the dynamic universe of women's basketball:

Delving into the heart of the sport, Baker's book chronicles the remarkable journeys, triumphs, and challenges faced by women athletes who excel on the court. Foreword by Becky Hammon.
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About the Book

With an insightful lens, Why She Plays sheds light on the dedication, passion, and resilience exhibited by these athletes, highlighting their determination to break barriers and pave the way for future generations. Baker masterfully captures the essence of their stories, painting a vivid picture of the camaraderie, sacrifices, and unyielding spirit that define women's basketball.

Through compelling narratives and firsthand accounts, "Why She Plays" showcases the profound impact of women's basketball on individuals, communities, and the broader landscape of sports. Baker's work celebrates the strength of character, the pursuit of excellence, and the unwavering love for the game that unites these athletes.

A must-read for sports enthusiasts, women's empowerment advocates, and anyone captivated by tales of perseverance, "Why She Plays: The World of Women's Basketball" offers an immersive journey into a realm where passion and talent converge, inspiring readers to recognize and appreciate the indomitable force of women in sports.

Christine Baker combines two rare traits: a true passion for the game of basketball, tattooed into her soul at an early age; and the ability to describe that passion with the gritty feel of the ball on a sweaty palm and the confident assurance of a born writer.

Clay Kallam

Women's Basketball Magazine

Robin Roberts Good Morning America

Good Morning America anchor and fellow women's basketball fan Robin Roberts holding her autographed copy. 

Tamika Catchings, Catch a Star, WNBA

Where to Buy

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Olympic Gold Medalist and WNBA All-Star Tamika Catchings checking out Why She Plays

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Keri Mikulski, PrettyTough.com

Why She Plays is a modern women’s basketball bible with an exclusive pass into the world of the elite female athlete. Baker covers more floor in the basketball world than Candace Parker covers on game day. If you’re a fan of women’s athletics, a current or former basketball player, or a parent of a child navigating the world of youth sports, pick up Why She Plays.

Journal Sport History

Kendra Hunter, Journal of Sport History

I recommend this book for those interested in reading about women’s basketball from the perspective of someone whose passion stems from her own experiences as a player, a coach, and a journalist. Her writing also serves as a reminder of the immense potential for growth in this sport, and the responsibility we have as players, coaches, and fans to move forward with delicate balance.

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Stephanie Bennett, Ph.D.
Women in Sport & Physical Activity Journal

From Title IX, to the birth of the WNBA, to Sports Marketing, to comparisons of USA Basketball versus basketball in other countries, Christine Baker does a great job of combining her love for the game of basketball and her journalistic abilities to provide the reader with a well-rounded visual rendering of women's basketball.

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