Jackson, Phil & Rosen, Charley. More than a game.

Simon & Schuster, Fireside. 320p. index. c2002. 0-7434-4411-6. $14.00. SA

* Ball games are won or lost in practice sessions.

* Ballplayers always know when their coach is lying to them, and vice versa.

* A player's character is more important than his talent.

* Life is, indeed, a metaphor for basketball!

These words of wisdom come from Phil Jackson--one of the most dynamic players and coaches in National Basketball Association history. From his playing days with the Baltimore Bullets and the New York Knicks to his legendary NBA title victories with Chicago and Los Angeles (including the 2002 championship crown), Jackson's "quiet energy' is a philosophical dichotomy that has stood the test of time.

Co-author Rosen's 30-year friendship with Jackson is an asset as he joins Phil in profiling the evolving image of the NBA in the 1970s when stars like Bob McAdoo and Bill Bradley emerged (and, in the case of Bradley, moved into another "arena"--politics). We view Jackson's development as a coach, first in the Continental Basketball Association with the Albany Patroons and later with the powerhouse Bulls and Lakers. His use of mental imaging and psychological mapping of player positions and outcomes contributed to his proven success.

Not only is More Than a Game a great autobiography, it is an excellent reference source. A comprehensive index, along with a glossary of basketball terms and player position-route diagrams, make this the source for coaches looking for that good motivational book for new or experienced high school players. Young women and men will find the words inspiring, the writing style entertaining, and the facts/terminology helpful. Physical education instructors can easily adapt parts of More Than a Game for testing purposes. Tom Adamich, Cultural Ctr., Charleston, WV