PISTOL
The Life of Pete Maravich
By Mark Kriegel
Free Press
$27.00, hardcover, 381 pages, ISBN 978-0-2019-8497-4 (2007)
Pete Maravich was a basketball wizard – his entertaining moves (behind the back passes, through the legs passes – sometimes even through his opponent’s legs, no look passes, and seemingly impossible shots) were far ahead of his time. This wonderful book captures all of Pistol Pete’s glory – as well as the many hardships he suffered.
Mark Kriegel does an excellent job of showing how Maravich was made into the perfect basketball player … all according to his father’s dream. The book shows the remarkable talent and records that will withstand the test of time, like his 44.2 points a game average at Louisiana State University.
It’s a joy to read about Maravich’s showmanship – both on and off the court. Like the time he took 5 huge stuffed bears off a boardwalk carny running a basketball stand with undersized rims and big, bouncy basketballs worn smooth. The way to win was to hit two shots in a row – after Maravich did it eight times and won 4 bears, the carny wouldn’t allow him to shoot again.
Maravich waded 30 – 35 feet from the basket and offered to shoot from there. The carny foolishly agreed and Maravich sank both shots to win the final bear. Then he gave them all away to some kids.
The book also excels at describing the darkness in Maravich’s life and how he became a prisoner of his own fame. It’s a story of a man filled with contradictions; a man who died far too young. Highly recommended.
Buy it here. 
