Memphis, Tennessee, October 14, 2025
News Summary
Nathaniel Root, a former Memphis Tigers basketball player, has released a motivational book titled ‘Root: A Memphis Hoops Dream.’ It chronicles his journey from an un-recruited athlete to achieving his college basketball dreams. Root’s story highlights themes of perseverance, the support of the Memphis community, and significant moments during his college career. With contributions from Coach John Calipari, the book serves as a testament to overcoming obstacles and achieving dreams in sports.
Memphis, Tennessee – Former Memphis Tigers Basketball Player Publishes Inspirational Book
Nathaniel Root, a former Memphis Tigers basketball player, has released a book titled Root: A Memphis Hoops Dream. The publication tells the story of Rootโs journey from an un-recruited high school athlete to a scholarship player at a prestigious university, capturing his emotional departure from collegiate basketball.
Rootโs basketball journey began in McNairy County, Tennessee, where he developed his love for the sport. As a senior at Adamsville High School, Root averaged nine points and five assists per game. However, upon graduating, he found himself without any college offers and virtually un-recruited. Undeterred, Root enrolled at the University of Memphis and participated in walk-on tryouts. He earned his place on the team by impressing former head coach Johnny Jones and subsequently became a walk-on player for the Tigers.
During his sophomore year, the basketball program underwent a transformation as John Calipari took over as head coach. After a challenging season, Calipari awarded Root a full basketball scholarship at his home, marking a significant milestone in Root’s athletic career. Coach Calipari has contributed to Root’s book by writing the foreword.
Reflecting on his college experience, Root recalls the emotional moment he walked out of the locker room with teammate Earl Barron after their final NCAA tournament game on March 20, 2003. This game, played against Arizona State, signified the end of their collegiate careers, leaving him feeling a mixture of pride and loss. Barron went on to have a successful career, playing eight seasons in the NBA and securing a championship with the Miami Heat.
Root aims for his story to be a motivational and inspirational resource for readers, filled with stories from his time at Memphis, showcasing themes of perseverance, belief, and the realization of a childhood dream. He expresses deep gratitude to the city of Memphis for their unwavering support throughout his career and the process of writing the book. He fondly notes that Memphis Tigers players are embraced by the community, often treated like family.
The release of Rootโs book coincides with an upcoming game where Coach Calipari is scheduled to return as the head coach of Arkansas to face off against Memphis on October 27. Rootโs former teammates and friends are expected to attend the game to support both him and Coach Calipari.
Conclusion
Rootโs journey exemplifies the power of determination and resilience. His narrative serves as a testament to those who strive to achieve their dreams against all odds.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the title of Nathaniel Root’s book?
- Nathaniel Root released a book titled Root: A Memphis Hoops Dream.
- When did Nathaniel Root and Earl Barron play their final NCAA tournament game?
- Nathaniel Root and Earl Barron played their final NCAA tournament game on March 20, 2003.
- What was Nathaniel Root’s high school performance?
- As a senior at Adamsville High School, Root averaged nine points and five assists per game.
- What significant moment happened at Coach Calipari’s house?
- Root was awarded a full basketball scholarship by Coach Calipari at his house, which was a significant moment for him.
- What is Coach Calipari’s role in Root’s book?
- Coach Calipari wrote the foreword for Root’s new book.
- What are the themes of Root’s book?
- Root aims for his story to be motivational and inspirational, showcasing perseverance, belief, and the realization of a childhood dream.
- Why is the city of Memphis significant to Nathaniel Root?
- Root expresses gratitude to the city of Memphis for its support throughout his career and book project, stating that the city treats Memphis Tigers players like family.
Key Features of Nathaniel Root’s Book
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Title | Root: A Memphis Hoops Dream |
| Release Date | October 2023 |
| Key Themes | Motivation, perseverance, belief, realization of dreams |
| Foreword Written By | Coach John Calipari |
| Significant Moments | Walking out of the locker room after the final NCAA tournament game, receiving a scholarship |
| Community Support | Gratitude towards the city of Memphis for supporting his journey |
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Additional Resources
- Daily Helmsman: Former Fan Favorite Root Releases Book
- Wikipedia: Nathaniel Root
- Go Tigers Go: Root Drives Lane at Pyramid for Final Time
- Google Search: Nathaniel Root basketball Tigers
- Go Tigers Go: Tigers Beat Arkansas Pine Bluff 78-54
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Nathaniel Root
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
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