#MAKINGBELIEVERS

by Greg Thomas

Discover the inspiring journey of Plano East Senior High, a school that has been shaping students, athletes, and communities for over four decades. From its opening in 1981 with just 560 juniors to becoming a nationally recognized institution, Plano East has consistently excelled in academics, arts, and athletics.

Readers will explore the leadership of five dedicated principals, the remarkable achievements of students in International Baccalaureate programs, state competitions, and the arts, and the untold story of the school’s quest for its first UIL athletic state championship.

Through the lens of determination, teamwork, and community spirit, this book celebrates the unique bond between coaches, players, and supporters, highlighting how sacrifices, guidance, and unwavering commitment culminate in moments of triumph.

A tribute to champions, both celebrated and unsung, this story reminds us that greatness is not just about accolades, but about the journey, the lessons learned, and the impact left on those around us.

375 pages, Paperback

Published October 23, 2025

About the author

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00REE1G6C

I grew up in St. Louis, MO, in a small town just past the city limits. During the day, I'd watch Bosom Buddies on reruns - maybe Supermarket Sweep or Golden Girls if I was lucky. At night, I'd play video games or Transformers or build Legos, expanding my imagination. One night I wished to the first star of the night that my Transformer would turn real and come visit me. My Mom, bless her heart, gave me the bad news that some dreams or wishes may not come true. I still haven't forgiven her for that. I'm still waiting for that ten story tall Transformer to come peeking in my window. Until then, I'll write.

Reviews

[Reader Views · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading about Plano East’s basketball team surprised me. I may not be the biggest sports fan, but I do enjoy a good team-building story. #MAKINGBELIEVERS by Greg Thomas provided exactly that. Thomas, along with several other coaches, guides his team through their championship season. Centered around Plano East’s basketball team, the book speaks to just how important mentorship, collaboration, and hard work are in high-pressure situations.

I enjoyed the little moments in this book. Thomas is clearly a team player, and it shows in his writing. There was never a moment when I felt as though a single person was the reason for the team’s success. Credit was given freely and in abundance, which was refreshing. Sports are a team effort, after all, and I really got the sense this team truly relied on one another. That kind of trust doesn’t just happen; it’s built over years of communication, shared interests, and pulling through for each other. Seeing the Plano East team succeed as well as fail brought a sense of vulnerability to the story. For every lost game or missed free throw, there was an opportunity to do better. The coaches believed in their team, but more importantly, they gave them the tools to thrive.

Near the end of the book, Thomas included questionnaires answered by those involved in the story. Reading through those, I could tell everyone involved functioned on the same wavelength. Each player gave their all on the court and in their mindsets. They worked together so well because of the bonds they had nurtured across their basketball careers. It was fun to read their takes on the season and hear about some of their favorite moments. Though the overall format of the book was not typical for narrative nonfiction, the story itself jumped off the page. Thomas’s passion for his team and coaching seeps into every word he writes.

For those who enjoy stories about teamwork, basketball, and coaching, this is the perfect read. Even if you aren’t a super sports fan (like me), you’ll find something in here for you. If you like movies like Remember the Titans, Hoosiers, and Friday Night Lights, you will love #MAKINGBELIEVERS by Greg Thomas.

[Brian Langford · Rating 5 out of 5]

#MakingBelievers is a powerful reminder that championships are built long before the scoreboard reflects success. The author does an exceptional job detailing how preparation, accountability, and belief can elevate an entire program. What makes this book special is its honesty—it doesn’t shy away from setbacks or failures, but instead shows how they become fuel for growth. This is an inspiring read for anyone who values hard work and team culture.

[Zerina · Rating 5 out of 5]

#MakingBelievers is much more than a basketball story it’s a deep look into what it takes to build a championship culture. The emphasis on discipline, accountability, and belief makes this book powerful and relatable, even for readers who aren’t sports fans. Every success feels earned, not manufactured.

[ADAM BRYAN · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book goes far beyond a season recap. It tells the story of transformation—of players growing into leaders and a program finding its identity through discipline and shared purpose. The writing allows you to experience the locker room, the practices, and the emotional moments that defined this perfect season. A must-read for coaches and athletes at any level.

[Lydia · Rating 5 out of 5]

#MakingBelievers reminds readers that the final score never tells the whole story. This book captures the countless hours of preparation, sacrifice, and belief that led to an unforgettable season. The honesty in the storytelling makes every triumph feel real and every challenge meaningful. An outstanding read for anyone who values purpose-driven success.

[Amelia Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

What sets this book apart is its focus on leadership and accountability. The coaching philosophies, player responsibilities, and emotional growth are presented in a way that feels authentic and earned. These lessons apply far beyond the basketball court and make this a valuable read for educators, mentors, and leaders everywhere.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story shows that undefeated seasons don’t happen by accident. #MakingBelievers highlights how consistent effort, trust, and belief can shape a team into something extraordinary. The narrative pulls you into the daily grind and makes you appreciate how much goes into sustaining excellence over time.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book captures the grind behind greatness. From early workouts to emotional setbacks, the story shows how trust and teamwork transform talent into something special. It’s inspiring without being overdramatic and honest about how hard winning really is.

[Vexoria Solarinth · Rating 4 out of 5]

What stood out most was the attention to detail. Practices, preparation, and mindset are described in a way that makes you feel part of the journey. #MakingBelievers delivers meaningful lessons about leadership, perseverance, and commitment.

[Anthony Gordon · Rating 5 out of 5]

An outstanding account of a historic season. The storytelling is genuine, emotional, and grounded in real experiences. Coaches, athletes, parents, and leaders in any field will find value in the lessons shared throughout this book.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

The behind-the-scenes access in this book is remarkable. From practices to locker-room moments, readers gain a rare glimpse into the culture that powered a historic championship run. The balance of strategy, emotion, and reflection makes this book both engaging and educational.

[Cameron Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

#MakingBelievers shows that success starts with culture long before it shows up in the standings. The book highlights discipline, accountability, and belief in a way that feels authentic and earned. It’s a powerful reminder that sustained excellence is built daily, not overnight.

[Amelia Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book transcends sports. While centered on basketball, the lessons about leadership, teamwork, and perseverance apply to life, business, and education. The story is inspiring without exaggeration, making it both relatable and impactful.

[Angela Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the strongest elements of this book is its focus on preparation. Practices, conditioning, and mental readiness are described in vivid detail. It becomes clear why this team succeeded they were prepared in every sense.

[Avarin Thalewood · Rating 5 out of 5]

What makes #MakingBelievers stand out is its honesty. It doesn’t glorify success without showing the effort behind it. The setbacks, challenges, and growth moments make the perfect season feel real and meaningful.

[Borgal Clara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Instead of flashy moments and exaggeration, this book focuses on consistency and discipline. The inspiration comes from the process, not just the outcome. That makes it refreshing and deeply motivating.

[Julius · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every player in this story was held accountable to coaches, teammates, and themselves. This emphasis on responsibility is what separates good teams from championship teams, and the book captures that perfectly.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book stands out because it avoids exaggeration. The honesty in describing the grind, the pressure, and the responsibility makes the story believable and impactful. It’s inspiring because it’s real.

[David Juan · Rating 5 out of 5]

#MakingBelievers does a great job showing that games are won through preparation, not luck. From conditioning to mental readiness, the detailed approach helps readers understand what sustainable success actually looks like.

[Aveline · Rating 5 out of 5]

At its heart, this is a story about brotherhood. The relationships among players and coaches are the foundation of everything that followed. That sense of unity is what makes the story so compelling.

[Julius · Rating 5 out of 5]

Belief is more than a word in this story it’s a discipline. #MakingBelievers illustrates how belief, reinforced daily through action, can push a team beyond perceived limits.

[Ashley James · Rating 5 out of 5]

This isn’t a book about one star player, it's about an entire team moving in the same direction. Each role matters, and the collective commitment makes the story powerful and authentic.

[Roslyn Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

The transformation of the program makes the perfect season even more meaningful. Understanding where the team started adds emotional depth and shows how patience and persistence pay off.

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Many sports books rely on clichés this one doesn’t. The motivation comes from real actions, routines, and decisions. That grounded approach makes the message stick.

[Jenna Vairen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coaches at any level will benefit from this book. The strategies, culture-building principles, and leadership lessons are practical and applicable far beyond high school basketball.

[Aisling · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book highlights the importance of mental toughness just as much as physical ability. The team’s composure under pressure reveals why they were able to remain undefeated.

[Otavivai · Rating 5 out of 5]

The greatest takeaway from #MakingBelievers is the power of consistency. Small habits repeated daily led to extraordinary results. It’s a lesson that applies to any pursuit.

[Cosima · Rating 5 out of 5]

The impact of this season extended beyond the court and into the community. The book does a great job illustrating how shared belief can unite players, coaches, and fans alike.

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even readers who don’t normally enjoy sports books will appreciate this story. The human elements growth, trust, and discipline carry the narrative and make it universally relatable.