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.
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..
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.
The New York Knicks took notice, and in 1947, Wat became the first person of color to play in the NBA.
Army.
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.
America was home to Wat, but with the onset of World War II, many people thought he didn\'t belong.
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