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Wizenard #2
Season One
#1 New York Times Bestseller
Reggie has never felt destined for greatness. He dreams about basketball brilliance all day and night, but the hard truth is that he's a benchwarmer for the West Bottom Badgers, the worst team in the league. Even their mysterious new coach, Rolabi Wizenard, can't seem to help them end their losing streak.
Reggie is willing to train tirelessly to improve his game, but the gym itself seems to be working against him in magical ways. Before Reggie can become the player he dreams of being, he must survive the extraordinary trials of practice.
Basketball legend Kobe Bryant presents this illuminating follow-up to the #1 New York Times bestseller The Wizenard Training Camp--a story of strain and sacrifice, supernatural breakthroughs, and supreme dedication to the game.
Reggie has never felt destined for greatness. He dreams about basketball brilliance all day and night, but the hard truth is that he's a benchwarmer for the West Bottom Badgers, the worst team in the league. Even their mysterious new coach, Rolabi Wizenard, can't seem to help them end their losing streak.
Reggie is willing to train tirelessly to improve his game, but the gym itself seems to be working against him in magical ways. Before Reggie can become the player he dreams of being, he must survive the extraordinary trials of practice.
Basketball legend Kobe Bryant presents this illuminating follow-up to the #1 New York Times bestseller The Wizenard Training Camp--a story of strain and sacrifice, supernatural breakthroughs, and supreme dedication to the game.
182 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 31, 2020
59 people are currently reading
847 people want to read
About the author
Kobe Bryant
23 books24.2k followersKobe Bryant was an Academy Award–winning storyteller and content creator. He spent his days building stories to inspire the next generation of athletes to be the best versions of themselves. Kobe was a five-time NBA champion, two-time NBA Finals MVP, NBA MVP, and two-time Olympic gold medalist. He hoped to share all he learned with young athletes around the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
April 13, 2020
Loved this book and read it in one day. Unlike the first book, the story is told only from one player’s perspective so it’s an easier read.
I really hope more books are still coming. Since Kobe was the inspiration behind the story, I hope he had already planned out where the series would go, so we can follow these guys through what’s to come.
I really hope more books are still coming. Since Kobe was the inspiration behind the story, I hope he had already planned out where the series would go, so we can follow these guys through what’s to come.
March 12, 2020
I do NOT know a single thing about basketball, beyond playing the game as a highschool student and wasn't sure what to expect.
The high energy, action throughout the story corresponds to the emotional roller coaster that the protagonist, Reggie, finds himself on. Constantly Reggie is at odds with himself, yet at the same time is driven by his overwhelming desire to compete against himself.....I can completely identify with this trait.
It is a single line in Season One, Wizenard #2 " your mind is a filter, when it is clouded, you cannot see the light" that for me, is the pivot point in which this entire narrative revolves. This story of Reggie... a young person, with an overwhelming passion for his sport, is able to grow and trust himself in an entirely new way... when the 'clouds' within himself lifted.....a self revelation that gives 'coming of age' an entirely new definition.
The reader [as I did] , will find themselves along side Reggie as he bounces, ricochets and rises to the challenges of Season One!
Highly Recommended for sports and non-sport enthusiasts!
FIVE STARS!
The high energy, action throughout the story corresponds to the emotional roller coaster that the protagonist, Reggie, finds himself on. Constantly Reggie is at odds with himself, yet at the same time is driven by his overwhelming desire to compete against himself.....I can completely identify with this trait.
It is a single line in Season One, Wizenard #2 " your mind is a filter, when it is clouded, you cannot see the light" that for me, is the pivot point in which this entire narrative revolves. This story of Reggie... a young person, with an overwhelming passion for his sport, is able to grow and trust himself in an entirely new way... when the 'clouds' within himself lifted.....a self revelation that gives 'coming of age' an entirely new definition.
The reader [as I did] , will find themselves along side Reggie as he bounces, ricochets and rises to the challenges of Season One!
Highly Recommended for sports and non-sport enthusiasts!
FIVE STARS!
November 17, 2025
Felt Kobe in this one. Perfect balance of story and motivation. A good read for anyone feeling stuck and needing to find that push to forge forward and keep grinding.
December 22, 2021
I discovered this series earlier in the year, Training Camp, and gobbled it up! I recommended it for parents of budding young ballers who also like fantasy and English teachers in middle school looking for excellent examples of literary point of view, as each book is written from the perspective of a different boy on the Badgers team.
And then I found this one, and I knew I had to offer it for my review-a-day holiday bonanza!
Here's the premise: Coach Rolabi Wizenard takes over the team and gets the boys, all 11 of them, in touch with their grana in the many ways it manifests, from a living gym that tries to squash them to their shadows playing against them.
They've all made the team, and this is the first story set during a game, or actually several games, from player Reggie's POV. He's got so much working against him -- a sick grandma, his own self-doubt, an obnoxious little sister. He sat on the bench all last season and he figures that's good enough this year. But he gets tapped to go in, and his grana -- the magic Rolabi helps the boys get in touch with -- won't let him shoot from where he knows he can make a basket, not even during games! He rages against it, puts in double and triple the amount of time practicing, and doesn't seem to get anywhere.
But before the prologue even starts, there's a quote from the late Bryant, one that resonated with us soooo much: To young athletes who commit to doing the hard work. The process always pays off.
This is Reggie's tale of hard work. And it's absolutely wonderful!
This is a great read for fantasy fans, fans of Wesley King's wonderfully powerful writing, and basketball fans of all ages! Great for under the tree or basket, or just any time of year (birthdays, etc.). Enjoy!
Looking for more book suggestions for your 7th/8th grade classroom and students?
Visit my blog for more great middle grade book recommendations, free teaching materials and fiction writing tips: https://amb.mystrikingly.com/
And then I found this one, and I knew I had to offer it for my review-a-day holiday bonanza!
Here's the premise: Coach Rolabi Wizenard takes over the team and gets the boys, all 11 of them, in touch with their grana in the many ways it manifests, from a living gym that tries to squash them to their shadows playing against them.
They've all made the team, and this is the first story set during a game, or actually several games, from player Reggie's POV. He's got so much working against him -- a sick grandma, his own self-doubt, an obnoxious little sister. He sat on the bench all last season and he figures that's good enough this year. But he gets tapped to go in, and his grana -- the magic Rolabi helps the boys get in touch with -- won't let him shoot from where he knows he can make a basket, not even during games! He rages against it, puts in double and triple the amount of time practicing, and doesn't seem to get anywhere.
But before the prologue even starts, there's a quote from the late Bryant, one that resonated with us soooo much: To young athletes who commit to doing the hard work. The process always pays off.
This is Reggie's tale of hard work. And it's absolutely wonderful!
This is a great read for fantasy fans, fans of Wesley King's wonderfully powerful writing, and basketball fans of all ages! Great for under the tree or basket, or just any time of year (birthdays, etc.). Enjoy!
Looking for more book suggestions for your 7th/8th grade classroom and students?
Visit my blog for more great middle grade book recommendations, free teaching materials and fiction writing tips: https://amb.mystrikingly.com/
April 21, 2020
What is the Grana fantasy reference in this book.
In the Kobe Bryant legacy he created the word Granity. He spoke on this in a forum as the invited speaker at a University conference. Granity is the story of his life. From Greatness to Infinity.
Imagine the potentiality of overcoming your dark shadows, your struggles to succeed at what you know is your call, the disruptions, the heartaches, the too many to count failures. Yet with persistence and focus and determination you become more than your path to destiny.
Each of the chapters introduces a Wizenard proverb. They are the thoughts that affirm our Who, our What and the Why. They are the daily Psalms to life adventures
Quoted at the very beginning
To young athletes who commit to doing the hard work,
The process always pays off. — Kobe Bryant
This read is so evocative and so trembling after the tragedy of January 26th.. must read more
In the Kobe Bryant legacy he created the word Granity. He spoke on this in a forum as the invited speaker at a University conference. Granity is the story of his life. From Greatness to Infinity.
Imagine the potentiality of overcoming your dark shadows, your struggles to succeed at what you know is your call, the disruptions, the heartaches, the too many to count failures. Yet with persistence and focus and determination you become more than your path to destiny.
Each of the chapters introduces a Wizenard proverb. They are the thoughts that affirm our Who, our What and the Why. They are the daily Psalms to life adventures
Quoted at the very beginning
To young athletes who commit to doing the hard work,
The process always pays off. — Kobe Bryant
This read is so evocative and so trembling after the tragedy of January 26th.. must read more
June 30, 2021
SO GOOD. This series is unlike any book I have ever read and I love it. I love the hints of where the plot line is going with Talin… I have a feeling (if this series continues—my fingers are so crossed) that the plot line will become much more than just winning championships. It has so much potential, and I hope that without Kobe Bryant at the head, the story can still continue. In Reggie’s story, there were many things that reminded me of Kobe Bryant’s “Dear Basketball” poem. I think he put a whole lot of himself into Reggie’s character and story—it was powerful and fun to read!
I have to say I much prefer the format of this book to the first one. Having it told by one character makes it so much more interesting, fast paced, and easy to read.
I have to say I much prefer the format of this book to the first one. Having it told by one character makes it so much more interesting, fast paced, and easy to read.
October 27, 2021
In The Wizenard Series _ Season 1 we follow Reggie's journey as he battles the self-doubt and heartache that plagues him.
He begins to see, through hard work and determination, that his worth is high and that he is what is holding himself back.
This is such a great series so far, and I love that the life lessons are mixed into basketball. Definitely a good one for our youth to read and learn from.
He begins to see, through hard work and determination, that his worth is high and that he is what is holding himself back.
This is such a great series so far, and I love that the life lessons are mixed into basketball. Definitely a good one for our youth to read and learn from.
December 29, 2023
Although this series is for young adults and I’m in my 30’s, I loved it! Any former basketball player or probably anyone who played competitive sports growing up can relate to this story. The “Wizard Proverbs” have Kobe Bryant’s Mamba Mentality written all over them. I look forward to checking out his series about tennis.
July 7, 2024
This book is SO GOOD!! I don’t like basketball that much, but this is focused more on the players not the game. I can read this book all day everyday!!
April 1, 2020
The Wizenard Series: Season One is a delightfully charming novel for young readers. Kids who love sports - especially basketball - will enjoy this book and following along as a scrawny kid named Reggie dreams of basketball greatness. Though he is the team's bench warmer, Reggie is determined that he can become a champion through daily practice and hard work. Kids will see themselves in some of the characters and identify with many of the experiences these young athletes face. Knowing this popular series was created by NBA legend Kobe Bryant, readers will discover the softer, thoughtful and sweeter side of this sports hero. The Wizenard Series: Season One is for anyone who loves sports fantasy and knows that with hard work and a little bit of magic, all things are possible. Well done!
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April 8, 2020Will there be more books for the series? Can't wait for my grandchildren to enjoy these books.
Wish Kobe was still here to tell more stories. Forever LM#33.
Wish Kobe was still here to tell more stories. Forever LM#33.
July 25, 2020
This is the second book about basketball the first (Training Camp The Wizenard Series) is from the imagination of Kobe Bryant and the writings of Wesley King. This second book focuses on one specific player, Reggie, and how he gains the confidence in himself and his team to achieve the unbelievable. Reggie transforms from someone who has no belief in his own skills to knowing how to use those same skills efficiently and effectively to help his team become more efficient. You get an insight into Reggies home life living with his grandmother and sister who they just call P. You read about his trials and tribulations in honing his balling in his own before, during, and after practice. You learn why he believes that he’s letting others down because he isn’t as good as other players on his team. But most of all you get to enjoy a young man become the best he can be.
February 17, 2022
(4.75 stars) After finishing Training Camp, all I wanted to know was the stories behind the players who didn’t have a section of the book. To my complete pleasure, Season One exists. I probably would have read this book in a day if I didn’t have life events going on.
HOLY CRAP.
This book was so inspiring and motivating. These basketball books; Wesley King did a phenomenal job of bringing Kobe’s vision to life and and I would recommend these books to literally anyone and everyone.
The only flaw of this book is that it ends.
I know series are supposed to leave you wanting more, but I wish we had more because we don’t really get all the way to the end of season one. What we have is great but like Rolabi says… “More.”
HOLY CRAP.
This book was so inspiring and motivating. These basketball books; Wesley King did a phenomenal job of bringing Kobe’s vision to life and and I would recommend these books to literally anyone and everyone.
The only flaw of this book is that it ends.
I know series are supposed to leave you wanting more, but I wish we had more because we don’t really get all the way to the end of season one. What we have is great but like Rolabi says… “More.”
May 29, 2020
Training Camp was wonderful if not arduous to read due to the multiple perspectives. Season One was awesome. Only one perspective and all about Reggie. His struggles and all the things that are against him. However, no matter what obstacles show up, Reggie is not going to quit. These are Kobe's ideas and stories, however, it is Wes King who actually takes you there on an adventure and you live the struggles and feel the pain and uncertainty. But, you persevere and you make it. You learn to believe and trust in yourself and the people who support you. Kobe's story and Wes's words create and awesome adventure.
July 19, 2021
3.5/5
I thoroughly enjoyed it as a junior high teacher who also coaches the senior basketball team. Definitely built for middle school/junior high students as it didn't seem mature enough for over grade 9. It can still be enjoyed though!
Loved the weaving of basketball and magic together. Accessible enough that most readers can feel successful reading it - your grade 4/5 readers might struggle but not too much.
As a basketball fan, I really enjoyed that aspect. As I was reading, I could see the boys I coach in certain moments. It was an uplifting read that teaches us lessons. RIP Kobe and thanks for leaving us this book to learn from.
I thoroughly enjoyed it as a junior high teacher who also coaches the senior basketball team. Definitely built for middle school/junior high students as it didn't seem mature enough for over grade 9. It can still be enjoyed though!
Loved the weaving of basketball and magic together. Accessible enough that most readers can feel successful reading it - your grade 4/5 readers might struggle but not too much.
As a basketball fan, I really enjoyed that aspect. As I was reading, I could see the boys I coach in certain moments. It was an uplifting read that teaches us lessons. RIP Kobe and thanks for leaving us this book to learn from.
December 13, 2021
We get to follow the West Bottom Badgers for the second book from the Wizenard series. This time we get taken through the mind and story of Reggie, a player for the West Bottom Badgers.
This book is one of the best books I have ever read, and I would recommend this book to everybody! This book is a perfect balance of real-life situations and fantasy, following a character through their journey and watching them evolve and change. This book leaves you on your toes wondering what could possibly happen on the next page. As Reggie pushes through his struggles and setbacks to achieve his goal and find his part on the West Bottom Badgers!
This book is one of the best books I have ever read, and I would recommend this book to everybody! This book is a perfect balance of real-life situations and fantasy, following a character through their journey and watching them evolve and change. This book leaves you on your toes wondering what could possibly happen on the next page. As Reggie pushes through his struggles and setbacks to achieve his goal and find his part on the West Bottom Badgers!
April 13, 2020
A well-written, imaginative adventure following Reggie and his basketball team, the Badgers, through the ups and downs of their first season. I had fun reading this as flashes of Phil Jackson and Kobe Bryant came to mind; the Zen master-like coaching style and Reggie’s mental tenacity and jersey-chewing tendencies especially. Great read!
April 27, 2020
A lot of solid life lessons to be learned from this book and its predecessor, whatever your age or profession. I’m not even a sports fan, but I have really enjoyed this series. Each character struggles with their own inner demons, and works to overcome them. And it is true: you can be your own worst enemy... but you don’t have to be. An easy, fun read with great takeaways - highly recommended.
July 4, 2020
Not to divulge too much, an amazing story of hardwork, facing failures and being in a place where your situation does not meet your expectations. So much to learn from the story of Reginald.
From teamwork to overcoming one’s own limitations.
I hope there will be a sequel to this. This series is GREAT.
From teamwork to overcoming one’s own limitations.
I hope there will be a sequel to this. This series is GREAT.
August 7, 2020
Well I could not get into the book as easily as into the first one...the story seemed a bit too complicated to me...in the first book the playera had it quite simple...overcome your fear and you will be better...but here Reggie has it somehow more complicated and at first I couldn’t understand why???
Then you know but still it seemed too much..
Then you know but still it seemed too much..
June 18, 2020
As soon as I started reading this book I had a few readers in mind that would enjoy this story. A great story about basketball and how determination and practice pay off. I liked the Wizenard Proverbs at the beginning of each chapter.
January 22, 2021
What a good ass book, highly recommend to a young athlete or a person that needs some good metaphorical advice inscribed into a storyline where we get to see a young Reggie who has a lot of self doubt turn into a star basketball player and overcome his weak mindset
May 27, 2021
I am so invested in this series. Who thought I was love a group of 10 - 12 year old boys playing basketball? But this team has captured my heart. Here's hoping King continues the story as a tribute to Kobe Bryant.
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August 10, 2021When I picked up this book it was a glue stick because I couldn't put it down. I read and read as the emotional rollercoaster took me through the book.
I liked this book better than the first one, it is easier to read because the book doesn't bounce between player.
I liked this book better than the first one, it is easier to read because the book doesn't bounce between player.
December 13, 2025
This book was a continuation of the Wizenard series by Kobe Bryant. It continued the basketball story of the Bottom Badgers. Great read, very engaging and very inspirational. Would recommend to any avid sports fan.
May 14, 2020
Basketball action and life lessons.
July 31, 2020
"Every human is born to change the world. Unfortunately, some are changed by the world first."
Rest in Peace Kobe Bryant
Rest in Peace Kobe Bryant
November 23, 2020
I loved this book I feel young readers should definitely read this book. It will show them how to never give up and to work hard for whatever they want to do in life.
June 30, 2021
Incredible. Can’t wait for more.
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September 2, 2021hard work will pay off and belief in yourself to accomplish your goals in this basketball tale.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews