Summary

Chapter 8 is titled “Jeevin.” Gene opens the chapter with information about immigration around 1900. Some people worried about the impact these immigrants would have on America. American schools were urged to teach the immigrant students to adopt the American culture. Catholic schools were formed to help some of these immigrants retain their own culture. The schools were often poor and basketball – requiring little equipment and space, became a popular sport. George Mikan was a student at one of these schools in 1924. He planned to attend seminary but was recruited to play college basketball. He blazed a trail for skill on the court. Gene makes a comparison between George's original plan to become a priest and his eventual career in basketball. These comparisons include that the gym “is a bit like a sanctuary” and the players shake hands at the end which are “offerings of...