by David Aldridge , John Hollinger & The Athletic NBA Staff ; Read by Jaime Lincoln Smith ‧ RELEASE DATE: Nov. 26, 2024
Rankings in sports always evoke debate--in a bar, between pals, or at work. This audiobook is a comprehensive compilation of the greatest basketball players of all time. Jaime Lincoln Smith narrates in a deep, steady voice, altering pitch ever so slightly when quoting someone but not trying to imitate anyone's voice. He gradually takes the listener through the audiobook, which is constructed in manageable bites, starting at No. 100 and winding down to the GOAT--greatest of all time. His consistency of tone serves the listener well. The rankings come off as fair, and while some are debatable, the final decisions are left to each listener. Smith's narration guides fans to the very end. Let the arguments fly!
Pub Date: Nov. 26, 2024
Duration: 20 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063329140
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Awards & Accolades
Our Verdict
GET IT
by Chuck Klosterman ; Read by Chuck Klosterman ‧ RELEASE DATE: Jan. 20, 2026
Klosterman's keenness for the controversial pastime is on full display in this insightful audiobook.
Awards & Accolades
Our Verdict
GET IT
Culture critic Klosterman narrates his latest audiobook, deconstructing the history and appeal of football. Klosterman's no voice pro, and this production is unpolished. But what he lacks in professional veneer he makes up for with intimate enthusiasm for his subject. Klosterman reflects deeply on his lifelong fandom, especially on how the sport has survived for so long in the public consciousness, yet faces a crossroads as public media consumption shifts drastically and awareness of traumatic brain injuries expand. The result is a rough, bare-bones listening experience, but Klosterman remains a good storyteller in any format.
Klosterman's keenness for the controversial pastime is on full display in this insightful audiobook.Pub Date: Jan. 20, 2026
Duration: 9 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217282166
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Feb. 9, 2026
by Sam Smith & Phil Jackson ; Read by Sam Smith , Phil Jackson & Nayib Felix ‧ RELEASE DATE: Nov. 4, 2025
Two men from the basketball pantheon team up to deliver these biographical portraits that are less a ranking and more a snapshot of their game. Smith, a longtime sportswriter, and Jackson, the venerable coach and "Zen master," work in tandem narrating their writing. Nayib Felix sets the tone with the introductory part of each player's bio, then Smith and Jackson each weigh in with their perspectives and anecdotes. Felix is a pro. And while Smith and Jackson are definitely not polished narrators, they lend an authenticity to the audiobook. The narration covers older players from decades ago as well as modern ones. Fans will enjoy the audiobook's banter and conversation.
Pub Date: Nov. 4, 2025
Duration: 10 hrs
DD ISBN: 9798217169351
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Hey there, book lover.
We’re glad you found a book that interests you!
We can’t wait for you to join Kirkus!
It’s free and takes less than 10 seconds!
Already have an account? Log in.
OR
Trouble signing in? Retrieve credentials.
Welcome Back!
OR
Trouble signing in? Retrieve credentials.
Don’t fret. We’ll find you.