Description

Book Synopsis
This dynamic picture book biography introduces readers of all ages to Wataru Misaka, the first non-white athlete to play in the NBA

Wataru "Wat" Misaka, a Japanese American boy born to immigrant parents, liked to play basketball under the glow of stars and a small street lamp in Ogden, Utah.

America was home to Wat, but with the onset of World War II, many people thought he didn't belong.

"Go home!" they would shout as he dribbled the ball down the hardwood court, but Wat continued on his chosen path, winning state tournaments in high school, becoming a national champion with the University of Utah, and even serving in the U.S. Army.

The New York Knicks took notice, and in 1947, Wat became the first person of color to play in the NBA.

During a time when nearly all of America mistrusted and mistreated Japanese Americans, Wataru Misaka embodied courage and strength, pursuing the game he loved and becoming a symbol of hope for Japanese Americans sent to incarceration camps. Lost in the annals of history for too long, this remarkable story of identity, belonging, and following one's own path is now illuminated through lyrical text and vivid illustrations.

Wataru Misaka: Basketball's Barrier Breaker

    Product form

    A Hardback by Hayley Diep, Naomi Giddings

    £16.10

    Includes FREE delivery

    RRP £16.95 – you save £0.85 (5%)

    Order before 4pm today for delivery by Tue 15 Sep 2026.

      Trusted by thousands of customers. See 2,385+ Customer Reviews

      View other formats and editions of Wataru Misaka: Basketball's Barrier Breaker by Hayley Diep

      Book details

      Publisher Triumph Books
      Published 30 November 2023
      ISBN-13 9781637274774
      978-1637274774
      ISBN-10 1637274777

      Description

      Book Synopsis
      This dynamic picture book biography introduces readers of all ages to Wataru Misaka, the first non-white athlete to play in the NBA

      Wataru "Wat" Misaka, a Japanese American boy born to immigrant parents, liked to play basketball under the glow of stars and a small street lamp in Ogden, Utah.

      America was home to Wat, but with the onset of World War II, many people thought he didn't belong.

      "Go home!" they would shout as he dribbled the ball down the hardwood court, but Wat continued on his chosen path, winning state tournaments in high school, becoming a national champion with the University of Utah, and even serving in the U.S. Army.

      The New York Knicks took notice, and in 1947, Wat became the first person of color to play in the NBA.

      During a time when nearly all of America mistrusted and mistreated Japanese Americans, Wataru Misaka embodied courage and strength, pursuing the game he loved and becoming a symbol of hope for Japanese Americans sent to incarceration camps. Lost in the annals of history for too long, this remarkable story of identity, belonging, and following one's own path is now illuminated through lyrical text and vivid illustrations.

      Recently viewed products

      © 2026 Book Curl

        • American Express
        • Apple Pay
        • Diners Club
        • Discover
        • Google Pay
        • Maestro
        • Mastercard
        • PayPal
        • Shop Pay
        • Union Pay
        • Visa

        Login

        Forgot your password?

        Don't have an account yet?
        Create account