Sacred Hoops: Spiritual Lessons of a Hardwood Warrior by Hugh Delehanty, Phil Jackson

Sacred Hoops: Spiritual Lessons of a Hardwood Warrior, written by Hugh Delehanty and published in 1995, is an inspirational book that uses basketball as a way to explore one’s spirituality. Through his experiences, the author seeks to show readers how to take the principles of basketball off the court and into their own lives, using the strategies of a hardwood warrior to become successful in all aspects of life.

In the book, Delehanty encourages readers to use the motivation and dedication of a basketball player and apply it to their own lives. He highlights the importance of developing a strong sense of peace and self-awareness in order to remain balanced in life and to live a life full of rewards. He highlights the benefits of becoming an active teammate and making sure that everyone’s talents are being utilized. He also looks deeply into the spiritual side of basketball, how it can help shape a person through self-control, love, and humility.

Throughout the book, Delehanty talks a lot about his own journey. He tells the reader how he overcame his own battle with alcoholism and how basketball helped him re-discover himself. He describes how giving himself over to basketball saved him and leads him to a more meaningful and spiritual life. He also talks about his time as a college basketball player at Stanford University, focusing on the ethics and morals he encountered on the court.

The spiritual lessons of Sacred Hoops go beyond sports. Delehanty stresses the importance of establishing and maintaining a healthy team, with each individual expressing their own skills and talents in different ways. He also encourages readers to identify the goal that drives them and to strive for excellence in their efforts to achieve it. Additionally, Delehanty reminds his readers that any successful journey begins with building a solid base by having faith in oneself.

Ultimately, Sacred Hoops is a powerful reminder that basketball, a popular sport all over the world, is not just a game of competition. It is a journey to enlightenment and spiritual growth. Delehanty uses his personal story as well as his life as a basketball player to provide readers with insight and understanding of the spiritual side of basketball. By maintaining focus and dedication to the sport, one can build life skills that will both help on the court and help them throughout life.