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Assisted: An Autobiography
John Stockton's autobiography, Assisted, pulls back the curtain on his very personal life to show fans a thoughtful recounting of the people, places, and events that have connected with John along his path of extraordinary success. This book clearly illustrates the importance of his family, his faith, and his unparalleled competitive spirit.
400 pages, Hardcover
First published October 15, 2013
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May 27, 2015
I love John Stockton and am glad I read this book. The book is truly a window into Mr Stockton's life, experience and viewpoints.
Two nits: First, Mr Stockton says that he will not write a "tell all" about the NBA locker room and associated matters. Ok - I respect that. He did not want this to be "Ball Four." However, I think he should have been more explicit and detailed about his experiences, even if he was critical of others. Just my opinion.
Second, the book would have benefitted from a real ghost writer or editor. Mr Stockton is not a writer. Fine. But his co-author, Kerry L Pickett, is not a writer either (his dreadful poetry sprinkled in the chapter intros confirms this). Another co-author, or at least an editor who could reduce the use of exclamation points, unnecessary quotation marks and cliches, would have helped immensely.
Two nits: First, Mr Stockton says that he will not write a "tell all" about the NBA locker room and associated matters. Ok - I respect that. He did not want this to be "Ball Four." However, I think he should have been more explicit and detailed about his experiences, even if he was critical of others. Just my opinion.
Second, the book would have benefitted from a real ghost writer or editor. Mr Stockton is not a writer. Fine. But his co-author, Kerry L Pickett, is not a writer either (his dreadful poetry sprinkled in the chapter intros confirms this). Another co-author, or at least an editor who could reduce the use of exclamation points, unnecessary quotation marks and cliches, would have helped immensely.
September 8, 2017
I am so glad I listened to the audio version. John Stockton not only reads it, he does a suprisingly great job - AND - where there Frank Layden quotes (numerous), Stockton does a fun, fairly accurate Frank Layden impression.
It takes a special kind of character to achieve Stockton's greatness and retain any humility. If I had 1% of Stockton's fame and success, I am quite confident that I would be completely unbearable. Yet, Stockton is completely humble. His successes are always viewed as collective efforts for which he is indebted to others - Coach Pickett, the nuns at his Catholic schools growing up, his Mom and Dad, Larry Miller, Karl Malone and on and on. He even heaps praise upon obscure, 12th man teammates who only the most dedicated Jazz fans will remember, or very mediocre players you do remember. For example, anyone who really remembers THE SHOT in 1997 also remembers that midway through the 4th quarter the Jazz were down by 16 to the Rockets. Jazz fans will recall that something superhuman turned on in Stockton, who took over the game, imposed his will on Houston, and took the Jazz back to the brink, which made THE SHOT possible. Even though he was the hero, Stockton redirects praise to the most unlikely of recipients - GREG OSTERTAG. Yeah, Ostertag. Stockton insists it was his defense that fueled the comeback.
A major source of moral erosion today is our fading sense of collective purpose. We live in a time when the President, too many athletes and other social figures emphasize the supposed greatness of the individual. None of us is really that great, especially on our own. In this book, Stockton makes it clear that without the assistance from and collaboration with others, he would have accomplished nothing. If this is how the greatest point guard of all-time sees himself in life, then how can any of us really justify any kind of self-aggrandizement?
I am also impressed with the way that John Stockton sees and admires the good in everyone. Anyone who knows the history of the Jazz in the 90's probably has some bad blood for Isiah Thomas. Yet throughout the book, Stockton praises what an amazing player and individual Thomas is/was. There are other instances too. None of this is contrived either.
I started watching John, Karl and the Jazz in 1987 when I was 7 years old. John Stockton was my hero and idol growing up, mostly because he was a great basketball player. Now, in my late 30's, he is still my hero, now for more meaningful reasons. Through this book, John has provided me, and my kids, a great example of true character. This world could use a few more John Stocktons.
It takes a special kind of character to achieve Stockton's greatness and retain any humility. If I had 1% of Stockton's fame and success, I am quite confident that I would be completely unbearable. Yet, Stockton is completely humble. His successes are always viewed as collective efforts for which he is indebted to others - Coach Pickett, the nuns at his Catholic schools growing up, his Mom and Dad, Larry Miller, Karl Malone and on and on. He even heaps praise upon obscure, 12th man teammates who only the most dedicated Jazz fans will remember, or very mediocre players you do remember. For example, anyone who really remembers THE SHOT in 1997 also remembers that midway through the 4th quarter the Jazz were down by 16 to the Rockets. Jazz fans will recall that something superhuman turned on in Stockton, who took over the game, imposed his will on Houston, and took the Jazz back to the brink, which made THE SHOT possible. Even though he was the hero, Stockton redirects praise to the most unlikely of recipients - GREG OSTERTAG. Yeah, Ostertag. Stockton insists it was his defense that fueled the comeback.
A major source of moral erosion today is our fading sense of collective purpose. We live in a time when the President, too many athletes and other social figures emphasize the supposed greatness of the individual. None of us is really that great, especially on our own. In this book, Stockton makes it clear that without the assistance from and collaboration with others, he would have accomplished nothing. If this is how the greatest point guard of all-time sees himself in life, then how can any of us really justify any kind of self-aggrandizement?
I am also impressed with the way that John Stockton sees and admires the good in everyone. Anyone who knows the history of the Jazz in the 90's probably has some bad blood for Isiah Thomas. Yet throughout the book, Stockton praises what an amazing player and individual Thomas is/was. There are other instances too. None of this is contrived either.
I started watching John, Karl and the Jazz in 1987 when I was 7 years old. John Stockton was my hero and idol growing up, mostly because he was a great basketball player. Now, in my late 30's, he is still my hero, now for more meaningful reasons. Through this book, John has provided me, and my kids, a great example of true character. This world could use a few more John Stocktons.
October 11, 2016
BR#2
Assisted is an amazing story about John Stockton who is one of the all-time greatest players in NBA history. It is by John Stockton and Kerry L. Pickett. The characters in the book help shape John into a basketball player. Some of these characters are Jack and Clemy Stockton, Kerry L. Pickett, Coach Dan Fitzgerald, Coach Frank Layden, Larry Miller, and Karl Malone. At one point in the book John Stockton had this to say about Coach Pickett, “No matter how high coach set our goals, we had learned by this time that we could reach most of them.” Coach Pickett set high goals for John and he learned how to accomplish them, no matter how high they were set.
The stories in the book are set in several places at various times throughout John Stockton’s life. It starts out talking about Stockton's family life as he grew up in Spokane, WA. John was very thankful for being born and raised in Spokane. Spokane is home to Gonzaga University which is where his Grandpa was a star football player. In the summer before 6th grade, John was throwing a football around at the park across from his house when he and two of his friends met 3 grownups who offered to throw them passes. One of them was Kerry Pickett who turned out to be John’s coach from 6th - 8th grade. Coach Pickett really built John up as a basketball player. He made John and the other boys work really hard. Stockton shared that, “Practice ended with “hallways” - a medieval torture masterminded by an evil conditioning genius.” From the great coaching John got at an early age it helped him go on to be a star high school basketball player at Gonzaga Prep. He had 3 Universities offer him basketball scholarships and in the end he chose to stay at home in Spokane to play at Gonzaga University. After a great 4 years at Gonzaga, Stockton was hopeful of getting drafted into the NBA. His dream came true as the Utah Jazz selected him with their first round pick. For the first time in his life, John would move away from Spokane and Salt Lake City became his new home. He stayed with the Utah Jazz for his entire NBA career which was 18 years.
I would highly recommend Assisted if you like basketball and the Utah Jazz. It is an autobiography. It is 320 pages. It is good for someone who likes a good sports book.
Assisted is an amazing story about John Stockton who is one of the all-time greatest players in NBA history. It is by John Stockton and Kerry L. Pickett. The characters in the book help shape John into a basketball player. Some of these characters are Jack and Clemy Stockton, Kerry L. Pickett, Coach Dan Fitzgerald, Coach Frank Layden, Larry Miller, and Karl Malone. At one point in the book John Stockton had this to say about Coach Pickett, “No matter how high coach set our goals, we had learned by this time that we could reach most of them.” Coach Pickett set high goals for John and he learned how to accomplish them, no matter how high they were set.
The stories in the book are set in several places at various times throughout John Stockton’s life. It starts out talking about Stockton's family life as he grew up in Spokane, WA. John was very thankful for being born and raised in Spokane. Spokane is home to Gonzaga University which is where his Grandpa was a star football player. In the summer before 6th grade, John was throwing a football around at the park across from his house when he and two of his friends met 3 grownups who offered to throw them passes. One of them was Kerry Pickett who turned out to be John’s coach from 6th - 8th grade. Coach Pickett really built John up as a basketball player. He made John and the other boys work really hard. Stockton shared that, “Practice ended with “hallways” - a medieval torture masterminded by an evil conditioning genius.” From the great coaching John got at an early age it helped him go on to be a star high school basketball player at Gonzaga Prep. He had 3 Universities offer him basketball scholarships and in the end he chose to stay at home in Spokane to play at Gonzaga University. After a great 4 years at Gonzaga, Stockton was hopeful of getting drafted into the NBA. His dream came true as the Utah Jazz selected him with their first round pick. For the first time in his life, John would move away from Spokane and Salt Lake City became his new home. He stayed with the Utah Jazz for his entire NBA career which was 18 years.
I would highly recommend Assisted if you like basketball and the Utah Jazz. It is an autobiography. It is 320 pages. It is good for someone who likes a good sports book.
June 11, 2021
In most sports memoirs, the author/athlete spends much of the book talking about his or her sports career – whether it is about how their love of the sport came during their youth, their college or professional career and the camaraderie with teammates or competitors and their lives after their career ends – most follow this tried-and-true format. "Assisted", the memoir of John Stockton who is the all-time leader for assists and steals, is a little different in that more of the book talks more about his family life in youth and adulthood than it does about his basketball career.
That career, in which he played at Gonzaga followed by 20 years in the NBA, all for the Utah Jazz, was one of the most successful in the game's history. While he and the Jazz never won a championship, he and Karl Malone made up one of the more famous teammate duos and took the Jazz, who had only one winning season before Stockton joined them, to become one of the more successful franchises in the sport. But despite all of this, Stockton doesn't write extensively about his basketball prowess or accomplishments with the Jazz. Instead, when talking basketball, he concentrates more on teammates, coaches, trainers and other important people involved in the game. These make even better stories than his own, especially those of his first coach with the Jazz, Frank Layden, who is quoted liberally throughout the book. He also speaks fondly of his participation on the 1992 and 1996 U.S. Olympic basketball teams, the first two Olympic teams composed primarily of NBA players.
However, Stockton spends much time in the book talking about non-basketball items, mostly his family life. This includes both his youth and his family consisting of his wife Nada and their six children. Of course, he mentions how sports are important in those lives, especially in his youth and his competition with his brother. He talks about his Catholic faith and some topics that could generate some debate as well, such as his pro-life beliefs. This is not to say that he delves deeply into a political debate or into a controversial stance. He does state, however, how he will speak his mind and will be honest about topics like this, no matter how popular or unpopular his beliefs may be. Something else that ties into these types of topics is his discussion of life as a Catholic in a city that has a majority of its population as Mormon – and he spends time dispelling some myths about Salt Lake City.
Listening to the audio version, especially as it was narrated by Stockton, lent an air of authenticity to the book. This was especially beneficial for this last paragraph as the voice inflections helped to show that he was firm in his beliefs. Although the best parts of the narration, at least for entertainment, were when he would quote Coach Layden with a deep gravelly voice. This book is one that any fan of Stockton or the Jazz will enjoy.
https://sportsbookguy.blogspot.com/20...
That career, in which he played at Gonzaga followed by 20 years in the NBA, all for the Utah Jazz, was one of the most successful in the game's history. While he and the Jazz never won a championship, he and Karl Malone made up one of the more famous teammate duos and took the Jazz, who had only one winning season before Stockton joined them, to become one of the more successful franchises in the sport. But despite all of this, Stockton doesn't write extensively about his basketball prowess or accomplishments with the Jazz. Instead, when talking basketball, he concentrates more on teammates, coaches, trainers and other important people involved in the game. These make even better stories than his own, especially those of his first coach with the Jazz, Frank Layden, who is quoted liberally throughout the book. He also speaks fondly of his participation on the 1992 and 1996 U.S. Olympic basketball teams, the first two Olympic teams composed primarily of NBA players.
However, Stockton spends much time in the book talking about non-basketball items, mostly his family life. This includes both his youth and his family consisting of his wife Nada and their six children. Of course, he mentions how sports are important in those lives, especially in his youth and his competition with his brother. He talks about his Catholic faith and some topics that could generate some debate as well, such as his pro-life beliefs. This is not to say that he delves deeply into a political debate or into a controversial stance. He does state, however, how he will speak his mind and will be honest about topics like this, no matter how popular or unpopular his beliefs may be. Something else that ties into these types of topics is his discussion of life as a Catholic in a city that has a majority of its population as Mormon – and he spends time dispelling some myths about Salt Lake City.
Listening to the audio version, especially as it was narrated by Stockton, lent an air of authenticity to the book. This was especially beneficial for this last paragraph as the voice inflections helped to show that he was firm in his beliefs. Although the best parts of the narration, at least for entertainment, were when he would quote Coach Layden with a deep gravelly voice. This book is one that any fan of Stockton or the Jazz will enjoy.
https://sportsbookguy.blogspot.com/20...
January 12, 2015
I wish I could give this 12 stars!!! Not just in memory of a childhood hero, but because this book was really that good! It's been sitting in my book shelf since I got it signed by John Stockton himself! And so I finally decided that I would pick this one up and read it!
This book brought back so many memories from the better parts of growing up! I wanted nothing more than to be the next John Stockton! I looked up to him so much, and to this day he is my all time favorite player and probably athlete. I don't remember all the reasons, but the one that stands out is that he was short, just like me!
But enough of the reminiscing! This book is a 12 star book for reasons beyond the fact that I loved John Stockton growing up. Stockton, was/is so real! He was/is so humble, so kind, so loving, so grateful, so inspiring, and so wise, just to name a few! The book wasn't as much about John Stockton as it was about those who have had a profound effect on his life, and sharing his extreme gratitude for them. I have always known that he was a down to earth great guy. But this book all his colors really shined!
This book really helped/reminded me focus on the more important things in life. It's not always about what is at the end of the tunnel or if we win. It's the journey that we all go on, that is truly important! That throughout this journey we live our lives the best to our ability, always seeking to improve ourselves and those around us! I have a new and greater respect for Stockton than I ever have before. To accompany that, I have dozens of quotes that I've taken from his book, and the desire to share this book with everyone! ESPECIALLY and Jazz fan!
John Stockton would never say this himself, and he doesn't even allude to it in his book! But John is a remarkable man, worthy of praise and the role model his was for me growing up.
This book brought back so many memories from the better parts of growing up! I wanted nothing more than to be the next John Stockton! I looked up to him so much, and to this day he is my all time favorite player and probably athlete. I don't remember all the reasons, but the one that stands out is that he was short, just like me!
But enough of the reminiscing! This book is a 12 star book for reasons beyond the fact that I loved John Stockton growing up. Stockton, was/is so real! He was/is so humble, so kind, so loving, so grateful, so inspiring, and so wise, just to name a few! The book wasn't as much about John Stockton as it was about those who have had a profound effect on his life, and sharing his extreme gratitude for them. I have always known that he was a down to earth great guy. But this book all his colors really shined!
This book really helped/reminded me focus on the more important things in life. It's not always about what is at the end of the tunnel or if we win. It's the journey that we all go on, that is truly important! That throughout this journey we live our lives the best to our ability, always seeking to improve ourselves and those around us! I have a new and greater respect for Stockton than I ever have before. To accompany that, I have dozens of quotes that I've taken from his book, and the desire to share this book with everyone! ESPECIALLY and Jazz fan!
John Stockton would never say this himself, and he doesn't even allude to it in his book! But John is a remarkable man, worthy of praise and the role model his was for me growing up.
September 23, 2013
5 STARS
I found myself reading and enjoying to get to know more about the player John Stockton. It also brought lots of memories to my mind.
Like the shot that sent them to the finals. Had to wear purple that week. How when I used to watch the Jazz games my little girl loved it when they announced Stockton to Malone.
This is a easy to follow book. I did not want to put it down. I liked how hard he worked and the values that John Stockton has. It shows some good insights in life lessons.
This is a book for sports fans, for inspiring people of all ages to go for your dreams with hard work. For the young and old. For men and woman to enjoy. I think a broad range of people will enjoy John's story.
As a fan of Jazz basketball thank you for your hard work. We are glad you played in Utah for so long. You represented the Jazz and USA Dream teams well.
I admit to stop watching the Jazz after you than Karl left. It was not as much fun without you.
I liked getting to know your family better and how important they are to you. Thanks for letting us see your journey and meeting your friends.
I liked the background of how much it meant to be on the Olympics team meant for you. I find it hard to believe that no one recognized you in Spain. Especially wearing a t-shirt with your picture on it.
It was fun to see the pictures. Hear the stories and see how technology is changing the game. Too see how much you love the game and how it was always watching and learning to be better.
I was given this ebook to read by NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing and asked in return to give honest review of it.
Pub Date Oct. 29, 2013 Shadow Mountain Publishing 400 pages ISBN:9781609075705
May 29, 2017
Há algumas semanas eu assisti a um documentario da NBA TV chamado "Class of '84". O filme abordava aquele que foi o melhor draft da historia da NBA, com o melhor pivô que vi jogar (Hakeem Olajuwon), o maior esportista de todos os tempos - MJ - o raçudo, figuraça e fenomenal tendo em vista sua estatura pouco privilegiada para um ala, Sir Charles Barkley e aquele, dentre todos, o meu favorito*: John Stockton. Uma das coisas que mais chamou atenção no documentário, aliás, foi o contraste entre a serenidade e humildade de Stockton e a arrogância do brasileiro Oscar**, draftado em "100 e tra la la" pelo Nets e que nunca teve culhao de jogar a NBA, mas se portava no video como se fosse maior que Michael Jordan. Stockton, em poucas frases deixou claro que estava na NBA "apenas para ajudar seus companheiros".
Ídolo da infância, conforme fui crescendo admirei mais a carreira de Stockton. Lider de assistencias e roubadas de bola na historia da NBA, quanto mais ia me aprofundando mais a seu respeito, mais me senti seguro ao admirar uma figura discreta, honesta, trabalhadora e, claro, de imenso talento. que fazia com que tudo parecesse simples.
Ha uns meses atras, me deparei com um review sobre um livro da dupla Stockton e Malone que descrevia um deles, sucintamente, como um carola retrógrado do interior. Temi que fosse Stockton e resisti a ler sua biografia, para nao me decepcionar.
Eis que hoje entre 10 da manhã e oito da noite, com alguns intervalos, baixei, comecei e terminei "Assisted". O livro apenas ratificou a impressao que eu ja tinha de Stockton: sujeito homem, polido, discreto, trabalhador. Assisted é uma biografia sóbria, sem afetacoes, casos extraordinarios ou rancorzinhos. É um texto equilibrado escrito por alguem humilde*** de bom caráter e sem frescuras.
Quanto à parte religiosa, muito menos presente que eu imaginei (seria Karl Malone o bigot religioso?ou era papinho furado desses new-left leite com pera?) O maximo que Stockton se aproxima disso é ao se posicionar contra o aborto - o que faz de maneira racional, lógica e legal - como seria de se esperar de um pai de 6 filhos.
O livro é escrito de maneira simples e objetiva, e sem dúvidas o ponto alto é quando Stockton relata os bastidores do Dream Team. As histórias de colégio e do Jazz também valem a pena. Stockton nunca ganhou um titulo da NBA pelo azar de ter sido contemporaneo de Isiah Thomas (de quem guarda bastante admiracao), Bird, Magic, Jordan, Drexler e Olajuwon (arrisco a dizer que aquele Jazz hoje levaria uma vantagem de 2x1 contra o Warriors em finais de conferencia), mas Stockton foi obviamente um campeao, tanto pelas conquistas individuais como por ter jogado na maior selecao esportiva de todos os tempos.
Recomendo o livro para fãs de basquete, mas não espere um livro cheio de fatos fantasticos e engracadissimos. Diferente disso, Stockton oferece honestidade, sobriedade e "some sport wisdow", quais sejam, dicas e reflexoes sobre o esporte e conquistas pessoais. No mais, um livro de quas 400 páginas lido em um tapa só nao merece nada abaixo de 5 estrelas. Uma biografia como o basquete de Stockton: grandiosa, porém fazendo o simples.
*Embora torcedor do Bulls desde os 9 anos de idade e obviamente fã de Michael Jordan e Pippen, não me sentia mais representado em nenhum outro jogador da NBA que em Stockton. As afinidades iam alem da questao de estatura ou de cor de pele, mas principalmente pelo estilo de jogo que eu tentava imitar jogando na escola, aprendendo a reconhecer a importancia e beleza em dar assistencias e ser coadjuvante de outro que marcasse mais pontos, priorizando o jogo coletivo. Alias quando os Bulls enfrentaram o Jazz em duas finais, foram as vezes em que menos fiz questao que o titulo ficasse em chicago, se o Utah tivesse levado ao menos um, estaria de otimo tamanho.
** Em determinado momento do livro, de maneira não-intencional, Stockton destroi uma das maiores mentiras promulgadas por Oscar e sua entourage, bem como a canalha e ufanista imprensa brasileira, a de que a derrota dos EUA no pan de 1987 precipitou a decisao americana de usar jogadores profissionais nas olimpiadas, e por conseguinte deu origem ao dream team. Stockton explica a versao real dos fatos: a vitoria de Sabonis e cia ltda em seoul que fez com que os EUA tomassem a decisao.
*** Stockton mostra genuína humildade quando trata com espantosa reverência e respeito o hoje técnico Jeff Hornacek, seu ex-companheiro no Utah, vindo do Phoenix Suns, um bom armador, mas indubitavelmente menor que ele na história do esporte.
Ídolo da infância, conforme fui crescendo admirei mais a carreira de Stockton. Lider de assistencias e roubadas de bola na historia da NBA, quanto mais ia me aprofundando mais a seu respeito, mais me senti seguro ao admirar uma figura discreta, honesta, trabalhadora e, claro, de imenso talento. que fazia com que tudo parecesse simples.
Ha uns meses atras, me deparei com um review sobre um livro da dupla Stockton e Malone que descrevia um deles, sucintamente, como um carola retrógrado do interior. Temi que fosse Stockton e resisti a ler sua biografia, para nao me decepcionar.
Eis que hoje entre 10 da manhã e oito da noite, com alguns intervalos, baixei, comecei e terminei "Assisted". O livro apenas ratificou a impressao que eu ja tinha de Stockton: sujeito homem, polido, discreto, trabalhador. Assisted é uma biografia sóbria, sem afetacoes, casos extraordinarios ou rancorzinhos. É um texto equilibrado escrito por alguem humilde*** de bom caráter e sem frescuras.
Quanto à parte religiosa, muito menos presente que eu imaginei (seria Karl Malone o bigot religioso?ou era papinho furado desses new-left leite com pera?) O maximo que Stockton se aproxima disso é ao se posicionar contra o aborto - o que faz de maneira racional, lógica e legal - como seria de se esperar de um pai de 6 filhos.
O livro é escrito de maneira simples e objetiva, e sem dúvidas o ponto alto é quando Stockton relata os bastidores do Dream Team. As histórias de colégio e do Jazz também valem a pena. Stockton nunca ganhou um titulo da NBA pelo azar de ter sido contemporaneo de Isiah Thomas (de quem guarda bastante admiracao), Bird, Magic, Jordan, Drexler e Olajuwon (arrisco a dizer que aquele Jazz hoje levaria uma vantagem de 2x1 contra o Warriors em finais de conferencia), mas Stockton foi obviamente um campeao, tanto pelas conquistas individuais como por ter jogado na maior selecao esportiva de todos os tempos.
Recomendo o livro para fãs de basquete, mas não espere um livro cheio de fatos fantasticos e engracadissimos. Diferente disso, Stockton oferece honestidade, sobriedade e "some sport wisdow", quais sejam, dicas e reflexoes sobre o esporte e conquistas pessoais. No mais, um livro de quas 400 páginas lido em um tapa só nao merece nada abaixo de 5 estrelas. Uma biografia como o basquete de Stockton: grandiosa, porém fazendo o simples.
*Embora torcedor do Bulls desde os 9 anos de idade e obviamente fã de Michael Jordan e Pippen, não me sentia mais representado em nenhum outro jogador da NBA que em Stockton. As afinidades iam alem da questao de estatura ou de cor de pele, mas principalmente pelo estilo de jogo que eu tentava imitar jogando na escola, aprendendo a reconhecer a importancia e beleza em dar assistencias e ser coadjuvante de outro que marcasse mais pontos, priorizando o jogo coletivo. Alias quando os Bulls enfrentaram o Jazz em duas finais, foram as vezes em que menos fiz questao que o titulo ficasse em chicago, se o Utah tivesse levado ao menos um, estaria de otimo tamanho.
** Em determinado momento do livro, de maneira não-intencional, Stockton destroi uma das maiores mentiras promulgadas por Oscar e sua entourage, bem como a canalha e ufanista imprensa brasileira, a de que a derrota dos EUA no pan de 1987 precipitou a decisao americana de usar jogadores profissionais nas olimpiadas, e por conseguinte deu origem ao dream team. Stockton explica a versao real dos fatos: a vitoria de Sabonis e cia ltda em seoul que fez com que os EUA tomassem a decisao.
*** Stockton mostra genuína humildade quando trata com espantosa reverência e respeito o hoje técnico Jeff Hornacek, seu ex-companheiro no Utah, vindo do Phoenix Suns, um bom armador, mas indubitavelmente menor que ele na história do esporte.
April 7, 2021
I really enjoyed listening to the audiobook version of this which was read by John himself. It brought back a lot of memories for me as I remember watching him play for the Jazz during his rookie season at the old Salt Palace. Stockton is a very driven and down-to-earth guy who squeezed every ounce of ability out of himself that he could manage. Couple that with almost comical practicality that is reminiscent of individuals that went through the Great Depression. One such example was his experience of renting the cheapest apartment he could find in Midvale during his rookie year and then stocking it with Hormel chili and frozen lasagna. He took great strides to ensure it was a basement apartment that would be insulated by the ground, as well as sandwiched between two other apartments that would likely keep their heat on so that he could leave his off and thereby save a few bucks on utility bills (Thurl Bailey had to intervene and nearly force him to turn his apartment heat on when John was getting sick from the frequent cold . . . ). This was a level of financial pragmaticism (cheapness?) that one doesn't encounter very frequently - and the matter-of-fact manner in which John describes his thinking process on this front (i.e., doesn't everyone think this way?) is just hilarious . . . At the end of the day, and by the end of the book, it's just fun to get to know a childhood idol on a more personal level. John does seem to keep the reader at arms-length in terms of personal details. He isn't trying to break records for book sales by dropping bombshells etc. If that is what you are looking for - go somewhere else. It's tough for this guy to do much of anything wrong in my eyes and his autobiography is no exception.
August 23, 2024
This was an interesting read about a great basketball player. Throughout the entire book, John Stockton is humble and positive and writes with so much gratitude. He doesn’t speak negatively about any person or experience and his loyalty, love for his family, and competitive spirit are evident in the way he tells his stories. Now I am ready to become a Jazz fan and watch endless YouTube clips of his career highlights!
December 16, 2021
I love the 80s-90s NBA. I watched it religiously during this time. John Stockton is probably my second favorite player behind Larry Bird. I’ve read all of Bird’s books multiple times, I’ve read a few oral histories on the NBA and ABA, as well as the 80s Boston Celtics. So I was very excited to find that Stockton had written an autobiography.
Stockton makes it clear in the beginning of the book the he doesn’t want to write a tell all NBA locker room book. But in the process he’s written a tell nothing NBA book. John is one of the greatest point guards to ever play the game. He was voted as one of the 50 greatest players of the NBAs first 100 years. He’s the all time career leader in assists and steals. He was on the first two Olympic Dream teams in 92 and 96. He has a lot to be proud of and a lot he could talk about. But instead we get biographies of his high school and college coaches. We meet a lot of the marketing and trainers of the Jazz. John was around during a historic period in the NBA. There’s a difference between writing a salacious tell all and just writing a behind the scenes book. There’s hardly any basketball in the book. Barely mentions of the 2 NBA Finals appearances John was a part of against Jordan and the Bulls. Including the infamous “flu game”. No mentions of any of his appearances at the All Star Game, including the year he won coMVP with Karl Malone in Salt Lake City. We get two chapters, one each for his Olympic experiences, but that’s more about how he avoided crowds when he left the hotel and telling about how he would go watch other athletes perform.
So, as a book, this is well written and I really like John. He’s a humble guy with a sweet family. The problem is, I know and am a fan of John through the NBA and I want to hear his perspective on the game and when he played. And who he played. He doesn’t need to dish, just talk about it. Something. Anything.
Stockton makes it clear in the beginning of the book the he doesn’t want to write a tell all NBA locker room book. But in the process he’s written a tell nothing NBA book. John is one of the greatest point guards to ever play the game. He was voted as one of the 50 greatest players of the NBAs first 100 years. He’s the all time career leader in assists and steals. He was on the first two Olympic Dream teams in 92 and 96. He has a lot to be proud of and a lot he could talk about. But instead we get biographies of his high school and college coaches. We meet a lot of the marketing and trainers of the Jazz. John was around during a historic period in the NBA. There’s a difference between writing a salacious tell all and just writing a behind the scenes book. There’s hardly any basketball in the book. Barely mentions of the 2 NBA Finals appearances John was a part of against Jordan and the Bulls. Including the infamous “flu game”. No mentions of any of his appearances at the All Star Game, including the year he won coMVP with Karl Malone in Salt Lake City. We get two chapters, one each for his Olympic experiences, but that’s more about how he avoided crowds when he left the hotel and telling about how he would go watch other athletes perform.
So, as a book, this is well written and I really like John. He’s a humble guy with a sweet family. The problem is, I know and am a fan of John through the NBA and I want to hear his perspective on the game and when he played. And who he played. He doesn’t need to dish, just talk about it. Something. Anything.
June 6, 2014
Going into this book, I knew I would enjoy it. John Stockton was one of my favorite basketball players. However, I didn't realize I would enjoy it as much as I did. If you're a basketball fan, I would say it's a must read. Stockton gives you his account of everything that transpired in his career, including stories of his unique contract negotiants with Larry Miller, different stories about his two stints in the Olympic team, as well as some humorous stories about different games, coaches, and practices.
While the focal point is his basketball career, there is more Stockton has to offer. He talks a lot about the importance of family, hard work, perseverance, and other important points of life. It really is an inspiring book that shows you just how humble and down to earth the hall of game point guard is.
While the focal point is his basketball career, there is more Stockton has to offer. He talks a lot about the importance of family, hard work, perseverance, and other important points of life. It really is an inspiring book that shows you just how humble and down to earth the hall of game point guard is.
January 17, 2014
I loved this book! I've always been a fan of Stockton the basketball player, but knew little about him as a person due to his quiet, private nature. This book provides more insight into John Stockton as a person. I truly admire his work ethic and attitude. It was also great to hear some of his experiences on the two Olympic teams he was on, as well as his two shots at the NBA finals, and the road getting there. I totally recommend this to any fan of Stockton and the golden era of the Utah jazz. There's also something there for anybody looking for an interesting story of a guy that achieved great things through hard work.
January 19, 2015
My superhero Utah Jazz point guard provides a nostalgic look back to the time our family lived in Logan, Utah and followed and rooted for the Jazz. He is without fail, kind to all who were a part of his life then. I have good memories of the Jazz twice coming so close to an NBA championship.. Personalities such as Karl Malone, Jerry Sloan, Thurl Bailey, and Mark Eaton are well described and thanked by Stockton. An enjoyable read.
November 10, 2014
For me, probably more like 3.5 stars since I got bored at times, especially with some of the sports aspect.
I really liked learning more about John Stockton and the things that made him such a great basketball player and a great person. I feel that we were lucky in Utah to have him be a part of the Jazz team so long as well as an outstanding member of the community.
I really liked learning more about John Stockton and the things that made him such a great basketball player and a great person. I feel that we were lucky in Utah to have him be a part of the Jazz team so long as well as an outstanding member of the community.
November 12, 2013
What a great book with great insight to John. It made me laugh and it made me cry. A lot of the things pertaining to the Jazz brought back many great and many TOUGH memories. John is a great writer and I truly thank him for this book!
February 18, 2015
Who knew? Playing basketball for a living is as boring and uneventful as any other job. Yawn.
January 28, 2014
One more reason why I love John Stockton. He is just a class act all around.
June 27, 2022
He made an interesting choice picking his junior high basketball coach as his editor. Clearly no editing has been done. The pacing of the book is brutal. It takes nearly 1/3 of the book before any interesting basketball stuff happens. I don't know how any casual reader would make it through that much of the book without any meat? There are chapters that dive into the deep genealogy of every one of his relatives and ancestors. I get that it's cool that his wife's grandpa was the governor of Alaska. I did not need the entire life story of said grampa and his parents and their parents. The only actual contribution I can see from the "editor" is the poetry at the beginning of each chapter. It sounds like poetry written by a junior high basketball coach.
It's unfortunate that I'm reading this after seeing all the videos of him being a paranoid anti-vaxxer. It makes certain parts of his book stick out like red flags. In the first chapter he mentions that he can't trust teleprompters because he knows people will change his words, so he has to memorize his speech. And that he's always on the defensive lookout in public in case someone tries to ask him for an autograph. Sounds like he's always been a little paranoid and on edge. Later on you see some actual anti-vax thought process when he describes how as a kid his coach used to pile the whole team into the bed of his pickup truck and drive down the freeway to get ice cream. He then laments about "what is lost" by people nowadays driving safely and using seatbelts.
I was interested to see his opinion on Mormons since he is a catholic that suddenly was put into a world full of mormons. But his opinion was "there aren't actually that many mormons in SLC", and then he went on to talk for several paragraphs about how one time in 1990 the saturday general conference played over some march madness games and he couldn't watch basketball for like a couple hours. It was very offensive to him. And that is all of his thoughts on mormons.
Another weird thing is that in the chapter where he talks about raising his family in Utah he ended up spending half the chapter talking about the evils of abortion.
I was hoping to get an understanding of the relationships he had with the other famous Jazz people but he gives almost no details. He just says generic stuff like, Larry Miller was an upstanding guy with a cutthroat business attitude. That section is followed by a picture of Larry letting Stocktons son drive his fancy car. Why does the picture give way more insight into Larry and his relationship with stockton than the words in this book? Or when he met Karl Malone he says Karl was a great friend who completely changed my life, and when we first met we immediately hit it off and talked for hours. I learn nothing from this. How did Karl change his life? in what way? What did they talk about? What was the nature of their friendship? None of these questions are answered. He later states that he wanted to respect the privacy of others, but that makes for a pretty dry book.
There is some fun stuff, I like hearing about some of the games he mentions. Games where him and Isaiah Thomas are going at it, or how in his first NBA scrimmage he immediately got stuffed on the first play. It's fun to hear how humble he was. How his first NBA season he did weekly meal planning and ate lasagna every day for a month. How it took several seasons before he set down roots in utah. Or how he accidentally drove without insurance for a year because he didn't know insurance was a thing. Or how he didn't exercise on his 2-week honeymoon and at the end vowed to never take a break that long again. And he didn't.
Here’s some other things he mentioned:
• Says he stopped talking at all in huddles when they were mandated to be mic'd up.
• His take on the Isaiah Thomas Karl Malone foul is that it's BS and not Karls fault. Then he rips on the pistons for beating people up a lot. In the end he says it's all good fun. Even when Rodman headbutted him he argued that it never happened to the NBA.
• Says his long career is due to chiropractors and getting in tune with his body. (antivax?)
• Dream team had crazy amounts of security in Barcelona, but Stockton could just take his family anywhere because not one person recognized him the entire time. He was injured so he only played the last couple games
• Dude has an entire chapter devoted to his dislike of fame. Couldn't stand autographs. Couldn't stand when people would complain about him not doing autographs. There’s no way to win. You can definitely feel his paranoia when he talks about avoiding people and throwing away fan mail without opening it just in case.
• Says after they lost to the bulls the league changed rules about illegal screens that seemed to be created directly to stop the way the Jazz had been playing.
• When he retired, he bought the jazz court and moved it to Spokane in a gym for his family and friends where they play every week.
• The end of his career was kind of sad. Teammates kept retiring and getting replaced with young guys. Young guys didn't connect with the team as much because of cell phones and stuff to do on bus/plane rides. Eventually just him and Karl left. He was paranoid of getting hurt or hurting someone and had to retire after a playoff loss.
It's unfortunate that I'm reading this after seeing all the videos of him being a paranoid anti-vaxxer. It makes certain parts of his book stick out like red flags. In the first chapter he mentions that he can't trust teleprompters because he knows people will change his words, so he has to memorize his speech. And that he's always on the defensive lookout in public in case someone tries to ask him for an autograph. Sounds like he's always been a little paranoid and on edge. Later on you see some actual anti-vax thought process when he describes how as a kid his coach used to pile the whole team into the bed of his pickup truck and drive down the freeway to get ice cream. He then laments about "what is lost" by people nowadays driving safely and using seatbelts.
I was interested to see his opinion on Mormons since he is a catholic that suddenly was put into a world full of mormons. But his opinion was "there aren't actually that many mormons in SLC", and then he went on to talk for several paragraphs about how one time in 1990 the saturday general conference played over some march madness games and he couldn't watch basketball for like a couple hours. It was very offensive to him. And that is all of his thoughts on mormons.
Another weird thing is that in the chapter where he talks about raising his family in Utah he ended up spending half the chapter talking about the evils of abortion.
I was hoping to get an understanding of the relationships he had with the other famous Jazz people but he gives almost no details. He just says generic stuff like, Larry Miller was an upstanding guy with a cutthroat business attitude. That section is followed by a picture of Larry letting Stocktons son drive his fancy car. Why does the picture give way more insight into Larry and his relationship with stockton than the words in this book? Or when he met Karl Malone he says Karl was a great friend who completely changed my life, and when we first met we immediately hit it off and talked for hours. I learn nothing from this. How did Karl change his life? in what way? What did they talk about? What was the nature of their friendship? None of these questions are answered. He later states that he wanted to respect the privacy of others, but that makes for a pretty dry book.
There is some fun stuff, I like hearing about some of the games he mentions. Games where him and Isaiah Thomas are going at it, or how in his first NBA scrimmage he immediately got stuffed on the first play. It's fun to hear how humble he was. How his first NBA season he did weekly meal planning and ate lasagna every day for a month. How it took several seasons before he set down roots in utah. Or how he accidentally drove without insurance for a year because he didn't know insurance was a thing. Or how he didn't exercise on his 2-week honeymoon and at the end vowed to never take a break that long again. And he didn't.
Here’s some other things he mentioned:
• Says he stopped talking at all in huddles when they were mandated to be mic'd up.
• His take on the Isaiah Thomas Karl Malone foul is that it's BS and not Karls fault. Then he rips on the pistons for beating people up a lot. In the end he says it's all good fun. Even when Rodman headbutted him he argued that it never happened to the NBA.
• Says his long career is due to chiropractors and getting in tune with his body. (antivax?)
• Dream team had crazy amounts of security in Barcelona, but Stockton could just take his family anywhere because not one person recognized him the entire time. He was injured so he only played the last couple games
• Dude has an entire chapter devoted to his dislike of fame. Couldn't stand autographs. Couldn't stand when people would complain about him not doing autographs. There’s no way to win. You can definitely feel his paranoia when he talks about avoiding people and throwing away fan mail without opening it just in case.
• Says after they lost to the bulls the league changed rules about illegal screens that seemed to be created directly to stop the way the Jazz had been playing.
• When he retired, he bought the jazz court and moved it to Spokane in a gym for his family and friends where they play every week.
• The end of his career was kind of sad. Teammates kept retiring and getting replaced with young guys. Young guys didn't connect with the team as much because of cell phones and stuff to do on bus/plane rides. Eventually just him and Karl left. He was paranoid of getting hurt or hurting someone and had to retire after a playoff loss.
February 12, 2018
This book is about one of the greatest basketball players of all time. Not only was John a great basketball player he was one of the best teammates that you could have. He is the all time leader in assists and steals in the NBA. This book was written by John Stockton and he goes through his life in the NBA, College life, and his life at home. He describes very well on how his basketball career was shaped and how coaches and trainers helped him get to being one of the greatest players of all time. John goes through his small town life and describes his journey going through a smaller college. Not only is this a basketball book, but he goes through his family heritage and describes his high school and college life. He does a great job with putting you in his shoes and knowing the kind of stuff that he went through. Nobody believed that he would be as good as he turned out being. He worked hard and was mentored by some great coaches and trainers and it helped him turn into a Hall of Fame player. He developed relationships with teammates that have lasted him forever and they will continue to last forever. He does a great job with going through those relationships and telling us what it really means to him. Usually former players that write books about themselves or other things don't do as great of a job, but John Stockton really did a great job with going through the small details of his life that no one would've known unless you read the book. I recommend this book to nearly anyone unless you aren't a fan of basketball or John Stockton. This is a great read and it doesn't take long to read because you get drawn into reading it.
February 12, 2023
As a Sonics fan in the '90s, I had a grudging respect for the Utah Jazz, but I rarely rooted for them. They were too nice. Too boring. They were this squeaky clean, ultra-disciplined, old school team from the Land of Mormons that had no Dennis Rodman equivalent. John Stockton, their point guard from Spokane, WA, fit this team like a glove. He was short and not very athletic white guy; a dad who drove a minivan to games and didn't like being a celebrity. Yet, despite all odds, Stockton smashed the NBA all-time record for assists and steals. He always made the right pass and made the right play. He still holds the record for most assists per game in a season. Gary Payton has said that Stockton was the toughest player he ever guarded. My respect for Stockton (Malone, coach Sloan) have grown since then.
Like Stockton, this book is inspiring, but wow is it G-rated. It is the exact opposite of a "tell-all" book with all the dirt you want to read about. There is a lot of praise and information about his family. It more resembles an acceptance speech or something Stockton would want his kids to read as a memento. Stockton wrote the book with the coach from his youth, and I think it might have helped if he worked more closely with a professional writer. That all being said, it was a decent book with some story-telling (interesting bits about making the NBA, his coaches, how he doesn't like how new technology distractions hurt player camaraderie) and inspiration, but it was just too vanilla.
Like Stockton, this book is inspiring, but wow is it G-rated. It is the exact opposite of a "tell-all" book with all the dirt you want to read about. There is a lot of praise and information about his family. It more resembles an acceptance speech or something Stockton would want his kids to read as a memento. Stockton wrote the book with the coach from his youth, and I think it might have helped if he worked more closely with a professional writer. That all being said, it was a decent book with some story-telling (interesting bits about making the NBA, his coaches, how he doesn't like how new technology distractions hurt player camaraderie) and inspiration, but it was just too vanilla.
Currently reading
March 11, 2020Assisted is an amazing book about the life of retired NBA star John Stockton. The book details his early life, how he started his basketball career, and his opinion on many subjects. The book is a truly inspirational story that shows the power of work ethic. John didn't have natural talent, but what he did have was a tenacity to learn, grow, and get better at the game. This has been an inspiration to me to continue with my goals. I may not be John Stockton, but I can still accomplish something meaningful in my own way. The book overall is exactly what you would expect. An autobiography of John Stockton's life and nothing more. It handles his life really well, but if it doesn't sound interesting at first glance then it will most likely not be the book for you. The book is really solid and has a lot of life lessons to be learned. It shows how humbleness can create a champion. Working at everything as hard as possible gives meaningful results and it provides true internal happiness. The lessons are invaluable and always have a purpose in life. If you don't care for basketball, autobiographies, or sports in general then I can't recommend this to you. If you enjoy sports then I can't recommend this enough. You have to enjoy the book to truly get meaning out of it and I find it highly unlikely that someone who doesn't like sports or autobiographies would enjoy this book. The book is really solid and I think it deserves a 7/10.
June 12, 2019
I naturally assumed that an autobiography of a major sports star would be ghost written, and my heart sunk when I heard that Stockton had actually written the book HIMSELF before handing it over to another non-writer, his friend and former coach, Kerry Pickett. But what a read! Full marks for not only going for it but pulling it off.
I've always been a huge fan which is why I bought the book, and Stockton comes across as humble, intelligent, loyal, grounded and honourable - not a bad fist of qualities to take with you in life. His account of the call up too the 1992 Dream Team was hugely engaging and I watched clips on Youtube of him in Barcelona with his family and not being recognised after reading about them in the book. I re-watched the shot that took the Jazz into their first ever NBA finals and it brought tears to my eyes - he describes the moment perfectly.
In the end I found it a compelling read and was moved by how genuinely assisted Stockton has been through his life - his parents, wife, coaches, team mates, club owners, physios, and, of course, his faith. This is a book from the heart, and if a professional ghostwriter had taken control, the unique voice of John Stockton might have been lost.
Shame I live in London so there's not much chance of getting it signed!
I've always been a huge fan which is why I bought the book, and Stockton comes across as humble, intelligent, loyal, grounded and honourable - not a bad fist of qualities to take with you in life. His account of the call up too the 1992 Dream Team was hugely engaging and I watched clips on Youtube of him in Barcelona with his family and not being recognised after reading about them in the book. I re-watched the shot that took the Jazz into their first ever NBA finals and it brought tears to my eyes - he describes the moment perfectly.
In the end I found it a compelling read and was moved by how genuinely assisted Stockton has been through his life - his parents, wife, coaches, team mates, club owners, physios, and, of course, his faith. This is a book from the heart, and if a professional ghostwriter had taken control, the unique voice of John Stockton might have been lost.
Shame I live in London so there's not much chance of getting it signed!
May 19, 2017
Assisted by John Stockton is a fabulous book. I found myself never wanting to put it down. It was very easy to read and kept me involved throughout the duration of the book. John Stockton is one of my ultimate childhood heroes and to read about him in great context and find out facts I did not know about him before was very fascinating. John Stockton ended up attending the "small" university at Gonzaga University for college basketball. John Stockton didn't have a lot of college offers coming out of high school. Eventually after an outstanding career at Gonzaga, Stockton was drafted to the Utah Jazz 16th overall in the 1984 NBA Draft. After receiving boos when he was drafted, John Stockton became the hardest working player in the NBA through a persevering work ethic that carried on with him in not just basketball, but with his family and everything else he was involved in. John Stockton eventually carried the Utah Jazz to 2 NBA Finals (both times lost to Michael Jordan (The GOAT)). After Stockton's career he was voted into the NBA Hall of Fame and is now known as one of the greatest point guards of all time.
April 8, 2023
I’ve been a John Stockton fan since the mid-1980s when our family had Jazz season tickets in the old Salt Palace. To this day, I can get easily sucked into watching old Stockton-to-Malone highlights on YouTube. But honestly, the YouTube highlights are much more interesting than his memoirs.
I found the first part of this book boring. Stockton’s life growing up in Spokane didn’t seem very remarkable. Even when he started playing for Gonzaga, I was nonplussed. He’s full of gratitude for the people who played roles in his life. But it was all a little sleepy for me. But Stock starts talking about his early NBA days with Thurl Bailey, Mark Eaton, and Frank Layden, I got nostalgic pretty fast. The highlights are his Olympic Dream Team selections for 1992 and 1996. And the build-up to the Jazz’s best years (which still resulted in back-to-back championship losses to the Bulls). For Jazz fans, it’s not as painful as watching the final episode of “The Last Dance.” But it’s more sentimental than fascinating.
READ IT IF: You’re a vintage Jazz fan.
I found the first part of this book boring. Stockton’s life growing up in Spokane didn’t seem very remarkable. Even when he started playing for Gonzaga, I was nonplussed. He’s full of gratitude for the people who played roles in his life. But it was all a little sleepy for me. But Stock starts talking about his early NBA days with Thurl Bailey, Mark Eaton, and Frank Layden, I got nostalgic pretty fast. The highlights are his Olympic Dream Team selections for 1992 and 1996. And the build-up to the Jazz’s best years (which still resulted in back-to-back championship losses to the Bulls). For Jazz fans, it’s not as painful as watching the final episode of “The Last Dance.” But it’s more sentimental than fascinating.
READ IT IF: You’re a vintage Jazz fan.
February 15, 2017
First, this book is not for people interested in flashy, cocky, self-absorbed athletes. If fame and riches attract you, move on to a book about someone else. The dominant theme of this book is John's viewpoint of his life, friends, family, teammates, and mentors. It gives you a sense of who he is more than what he accomplished in life. I found myself enjoying his humble look at his extraordinary success. I couldn't help using him as an example to my children as I read his story. He became a hero for me and I'm not much younger than him. He fully answers some questions the world had about him. Namely, his view on fame and his struggles and acceptance of it, his love for his family and how they influenced him, his method and approach to basketball. You do get to see what was really on his mind in the biggest, best, and worse moments of his career. John, as a youth, I was a great fan of your basketball skills. As a man, I am a great fan of your approach to life.
July 5, 2018
I do not know where to start with this autobiography. It felt sometimes as he was taking this book as a second chance to his HoF speech (which he did not like), he spent a good deal of this book thanking people only he or those close to him would know. So, He did not identify the audience for this book, and address them probably.
It also gave us a window on the very down to earth, humble, humanitarian athlete that John is. I enjoyed very much the chapters where he talked about the Olympics, dream teams, the mailman, Jerry Sloan, and his relationship with the Jazz organization.
It is safe to say that he is my favorite PG of all time now. His demeanor, style, unique leadership, the way he deals with pressure, mental toughness, and undersized physique all make him a once in a generation guy that you have to admire.
It also gave us a window on the very down to earth, humble, humanitarian athlete that John is. I enjoyed very much the chapters where he talked about the Olympics, dream teams, the mailman, Jerry Sloan, and his relationship with the Jazz organization.
It is safe to say that he is my favorite PG of all time now. His demeanor, style, unique leadership, the way he deals with pressure, mental toughness, and undersized physique all make him a once in a generation guy that you have to admire.
November 24, 2014
10 stars! "Assisted" an autobiography by the undisputed greatest point guard in basketball history (John Stockton) is now my Goodreads vote for the best non-fiction book of 2014.
As a long time fan with tremendous respect for the way John Stockton carried himself as an athlete, father, and role model I was surprised to find that such a private and guarded person would write an autobiography. With much anticipation I found "Assisted" and read it cover to cover in one day!
Three themes carry through with John Stockton: family, faith, and competitive spirit. Don't read this book if you want to hear about statistics (we all know Stockton is the NBA all time leader with 15,806 assists and 3,265 steals)--Stockton doesn't mention once in the book how many points he scored in a game, setting the all time assist record, or his famous 3-point shot to knock the Houston Rockets out of the playoffs and the Jazz into the NBA finals. And don't expect this book to be a "tell-all" to find out dirt on other NBA players. John Stockton has too much respect for his competition. If you are looking for some insight to how a scrappy 6 foot kid from Superior Street in Spokane Washington could become an NBA hall of famer than read this book.
This book ran me back through my childhood growing up in Logan, Utah cheering for the Utah Jazz. Playing basketball in my front yard court in the snow with gloves on with my friends. Sneaking into gyms to find a court. A few of my great memories were attending Jazz games...my favorite being against the Cavs where I sat in an obscured corner on the third row but saw the Jazz come back from 8 points down in the last 2 minutes. Visiting the Delta Center to see the open house for the all star game. Learning to drive on the freeway from Ogden to Logan with my Dad on the way home. And once being on the same plane with the Jazz (before the teams had Private Jets) and sitting right in between famous Jazz announcers Hot Rod Hundley and Ron Boone (they were nice enough to share their pretzles). I got a brief glance of John Stockton as I walked past 1st class--my only association with this reluctant star..but I'm sure we could have been best friends.
A few things I learned about Stockton....
- John once crashed his Dad's car. He tried to hide the evidence by throwing the wheel rims in the Spokane River..(now he's quite ashamed of this as Stockton has become quite green and pursues evironmental causes to protect land in the Paluse and in Montana).
- When Stockton dated his wife he like to impress her with his appetite (he could eate 2-3 steaks) and his frugaltity (liked to use coupons..buy-one-get-one free dinner at restaurants).
- Stockton is an expert at tapping a Keg from his time helping his Dad at Jack and Dan's Tavern and used this topic for his speech class at Gonzaga for an "A" grade
- When Stockton was drafted by the Jazz he was still living in his basement 2 blocks down the street from Gonzaga. He was a tough negotiator. The Jazz offered him a contract for 75 k per year, he held our for an additional 5 k and was signed.
- John never thought he would last for more than a year with the Jazz. He rented an apartment near the Jazz practice facility (Westminister) for 125 dollars per month and lived off of canned chili and his food per diem. He saved money by offering up his seat in first class, his legs were not to long and taking the difference. He also drove the team Toyota Corolla the first year without a license plate or insurance!!
-John bought the house next door to his parents expecting the NBA gig to last a season or two. His first summer his parents finally made him clear his stuff out of the basement and walk it 40 paces to the North.
-John really cherished his two Olympic Gold Medals (one which was dented immediately when his son spun it around by its ribbon and released it). Stockton almost never made it on the Dream Team as he broke is fibia..but he would not allow himself to be replaced.
-Stockton is an avid water skier
- In Stockton's last contract he told Larry Miller to pay me what you think I'm worth. Larry wrote down a number and Stockton then lowered the figure! Can you imagine a Lebron, Kobe, or any NBA rookie doing that today?
- Stockton was inducted into the hall of fame by Detroit Piston guard Isaiah Thomas (even though this player once said he should have made the Dream Team above Stockton).
- Stockton in the final years with the Jazz was lonely. He mostly ate room service. Players were tethered to their phones, head phones, and social media updates. He missed the old days when players were forced to ride coach on airplanes and sit side by side and have a conversation.
- Stockton did not regret when he retired but regreted how the announcement was made (I think I'm done) as he was cleaning out his locker. He never clearly informed his wife or Karl Malone.
-Stockton has now turned an old Warehouse near Gonzaga into a basketball court using the old Utah Jazz court from the Delta Center.
-At his hall of fame speech (Stockton avoids public speaking) he wrote the speech on large index cards in large letters as his vision is fading
As you can tell I was fascinated by John's autobiography. At the end Stockton became quite reflective on what fame had robbed from him and his family..(he always felt the game was the entertainment and that's it)..but also finaly realizes at age 50 that basketball gave him a voice that can be used.
Frank Layden said it best..."Nobody thouth that he was going to be this good. Nobody, but the thing was nobody measured his heart."
Read it and it just may become your Goodreads favorite too!
As a long time fan with tremendous respect for the way John Stockton carried himself as an athlete, father, and role model I was surprised to find that such a private and guarded person would write an autobiography. With much anticipation I found "Assisted" and read it cover to cover in one day!
Three themes carry through with John Stockton: family, faith, and competitive spirit. Don't read this book if you want to hear about statistics (we all know Stockton is the NBA all time leader with 15,806 assists and 3,265 steals)--Stockton doesn't mention once in the book how many points he scored in a game, setting the all time assist record, or his famous 3-point shot to knock the Houston Rockets out of the playoffs and the Jazz into the NBA finals. And don't expect this book to be a "tell-all" to find out dirt on other NBA players. John Stockton has too much respect for his competition. If you are looking for some insight to how a scrappy 6 foot kid from Superior Street in Spokane Washington could become an NBA hall of famer than read this book.
This book ran me back through my childhood growing up in Logan, Utah cheering for the Utah Jazz. Playing basketball in my front yard court in the snow with gloves on with my friends. Sneaking into gyms to find a court. A few of my great memories were attending Jazz games...my favorite being against the Cavs where I sat in an obscured corner on the third row but saw the Jazz come back from 8 points down in the last 2 minutes. Visiting the Delta Center to see the open house for the all star game. Learning to drive on the freeway from Ogden to Logan with my Dad on the way home. And once being on the same plane with the Jazz (before the teams had Private Jets) and sitting right in between famous Jazz announcers Hot Rod Hundley and Ron Boone (they were nice enough to share their pretzles). I got a brief glance of John Stockton as I walked past 1st class--my only association with this reluctant star..but I'm sure we could have been best friends.
A few things I learned about Stockton....
- John once crashed his Dad's car. He tried to hide the evidence by throwing the wheel rims in the Spokane River..(now he's quite ashamed of this as Stockton has become quite green and pursues evironmental causes to protect land in the Paluse and in Montana).
- When Stockton dated his wife he like to impress her with his appetite (he could eate 2-3 steaks) and his frugaltity (liked to use coupons..buy-one-get-one free dinner at restaurants).
- Stockton is an expert at tapping a Keg from his time helping his Dad at Jack and Dan's Tavern and used this topic for his speech class at Gonzaga for an "A" grade
- When Stockton was drafted by the Jazz he was still living in his basement 2 blocks down the street from Gonzaga. He was a tough negotiator. The Jazz offered him a contract for 75 k per year, he held our for an additional 5 k and was signed.
- John never thought he would last for more than a year with the Jazz. He rented an apartment near the Jazz practice facility (Westminister) for 125 dollars per month and lived off of canned chili and his food per diem. He saved money by offering up his seat in first class, his legs were not to long and taking the difference. He also drove the team Toyota Corolla the first year without a license plate or insurance!!
-John bought the house next door to his parents expecting the NBA gig to last a season or two. His first summer his parents finally made him clear his stuff out of the basement and walk it 40 paces to the North.
-John really cherished his two Olympic Gold Medals (one which was dented immediately when his son spun it around by its ribbon and released it). Stockton almost never made it on the Dream Team as he broke is fibia..but he would not allow himself to be replaced.
-Stockton is an avid water skier
- In Stockton's last contract he told Larry Miller to pay me what you think I'm worth. Larry wrote down a number and Stockton then lowered the figure! Can you imagine a Lebron, Kobe, or any NBA rookie doing that today?
- Stockton was inducted into the hall of fame by Detroit Piston guard Isaiah Thomas (even though this player once said he should have made the Dream Team above Stockton).
- Stockton in the final years with the Jazz was lonely. He mostly ate room service. Players were tethered to their phones, head phones, and social media updates. He missed the old days when players were forced to ride coach on airplanes and sit side by side and have a conversation.
- Stockton did not regret when he retired but regreted how the announcement was made (I think I'm done) as he was cleaning out his locker. He never clearly informed his wife or Karl Malone.
-Stockton has now turned an old Warehouse near Gonzaga into a basketball court using the old Utah Jazz court from the Delta Center.
-At his hall of fame speech (Stockton avoids public speaking) he wrote the speech on large index cards in large letters as his vision is fading
As you can tell I was fascinated by John's autobiography. At the end Stockton became quite reflective on what fame had robbed from him and his family..(he always felt the game was the entertainment and that's it)..but also finaly realizes at age 50 that basketball gave him a voice that can be used.
Frank Layden said it best..."Nobody thouth that he was going to be this good. Nobody, but the thing was nobody measured his heart."
Read it and it just may become your Goodreads favorite too!
March 8, 2017
John Stockton is born and becomes a toddler. As a toddler he loves the game so when he is old enough to play he plays and is really good. He plays so good he plays in high school then he goes to Gonzaga University. He plays really well there and goes to the jazz almost wins a championship but becomes a legend.
He teaches us how to become a good basketball player. First play as a little kid be a good dribbler. After that then you have to become a good shooter. Finally go to good high school and college then you might become a good basketball player in the NBA.
I really liked this book because it is real and you can do the same as he did become a good basketball player. It is also cool to know someone did that. His story is also so awesome to hear. And its cool that he is LDS.
He teaches us how to become a good basketball player. First play as a little kid be a good dribbler. After that then you have to become a good shooter. Finally go to good high school and college then you might become a good basketball player in the NBA.
I really liked this book because it is real and you can do the same as he did become a good basketball player. It is also cool to know someone did that. His story is also so awesome to hear. And its cool that he is LDS.
June 18, 2017
This reads as a giant thank you note to all the people who helped make John Stockton who he is and was (which was his purpose you discover in the epilogue). He deliberately avoids getting in very deep or personal. He had always said he was a very private person. He says so in this book so often I lost count. Also you are going to get a lot of what and when, very little why. I enjoyed it because I enjoyed the Jazz during Stockton's time. His work ethic has always been impressive and his Jazz were one of the last true teams in basketball, before the show boat dunk fest games that plagued the NBA until recently. You will gain some insights along those lines and a few soapbox nuggets of John's on a few subjects.
July 14, 2019
Stockton is an iconic player, the greatest point guard to ever play. The book honestly and clearly charts his life, from the beginnings to the heights of the NBA playoffs and Olympics. Personally I didn't care much for the poetry written by his mentor, but to each their own. I deduct a point because Stockton (or someone's lawyers?) entirely skips a huge topic, the off court actions of his long time teammate. As a religious man and a father of young children himself, John must have had thoughts on such a massive topic, yet the issue is ignored entirely despite the somewhat preachy tone of the religious aspects of the book. In all, what is there is good, but would've been more interesting if they'd covered some more sensitive subjects.
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