Terry Pluto's writing delves into the often-unexplored aspects of the sports world, focusing on profound human stories. His style is celebrated for its sincerity and its capacity to capture the essence of sports culture. Pluto expertly conveys the emotions and nuances that frequently remain hidden from casual observation. His works are highly regarded for their authenticity and reader accessibility.
Capturing the legendary days of the American Basketball Association in the words of players, officials, commentators, owners, and coaches, this oral history weaves memories of the red, white, and blue ball, fortunes lost, and stars discovered.
An history of the beginnings of the National Basketball Associations for true basketball fans. Tall Tales in an oral history of the early days of the National Basketball Associations, when giants such as Wilt Chamberlain, Bill Russell, Maurice Stokes, Oscar Robertson, Bob Pettit, Lenny Wilkens, Hot Rod Hundley, Jerry West, and Elgin Baylor stalked the boards. When players sometimes had second jobs in the off-season. When teams were based in towns like Fort Wayne, Syracuse, and Rochester. If you consider yourself a true basketball fan, you need to know the sport’s roots. They’re all here, courtesy of Terry Pluto.
The book offers a humorous and nostalgic look at the Cleveland Indians, chronicling the team's struggles since the infamous trade of Rocky Colavito in 1960. Through a collection of vignettes, it explores the myriad misfortunes and tragedies faced by the franchise, while celebrating the unwavering optimism of its fans. Accompanied by photos, it captures the unique spirit and resilience of those who have loyally supported one of baseball's most challenged teams.
Chronicles how the Cleveland Cavaliers have rebuilt their organization, focusing on the implications of the drafting of LeBron James in 2003.
The book captures the excitement of Cleveland Indians baseball during the early years of Jacobs Field, highlighting memorable stories from that era. It features insights from the city's leading sportswriter, the team's veteran radio announcer, and passionate fans, all celebrating a star-studded roster that included legends like Belle, Thome, and Ramirez. This nostalgic look back reflects the team's impact on the city and the unforgettable moments that defined a thrilling chapter in baseball history.
The memoir explores the bond between a son and his father, centered around their shared passion for a struggling baseball team. Through the lens of their experiences with the sport, the author reflects on the complexities of their relationship and the challenges of understanding a difficult parent. Highlighting baseball as a vital connection across generations, the narrative celebrates the moments of unity and understanding that arise from their mutual love for the game.
Why did everything keep going wrong for the Cleveland Browns? From their 1999 return to the NFL as an expansion team through their winless 2017 season, the Cleveland Browns had the worst record in the NFL. And their fans had ulcers. Veteran sports columnist Terry Pluto explains why everything kept going wrong. This detailed report on two decades of disappointment takes a behind-the-scenes look at upheaval in the front office, frustration on the field, and headaches and heartache in the stands. His earlier book False How the New Browns Were Set Up to Fail told how the NFL hamstrung the new franchise. Who could have predicted the limping would last 19 years? This book picks up the story. Season after season began with hope in spring for the NFL draft (“the Browns’ version of the Super Bowl,” a fan called it) … often a new coach or GM or quarterback (or all three) … then the losses … and back to rebuilding. Pluto reviews all the major moves―draft choices and deals, hiring and firing and reshuffling―and the results. If you’re a Browns fan who wants to understand what went wrong with your team, this is the place to start. Includes heartfelt and humorous opinions contributed by fans.
Thoughtful essays explore everyday challenges such as dealing with insults, unanswered prayers, sibling rivalry, and the loss of a pet. Terry Pluto addresses readers who may struggle with their faith yet recognize its significance in their lives. Aimed at those who feel disconnected from traditional religious institutions or are unsure about their beliefs, these musings encourage reflection rather than providing definitive answers, inviting readers to contemplate their spiritual journeys throughout the week.
Celebrating a legendary broadcasting career, this book captures the essence of Joe Tait, the beloved voice of Cleveland sports. Through personal anecdotes and reflections from fans and colleagues, it chronicles his journey from a sports-loving youth to a Hall-of-Fame announcer. Tait's candid style and unique phrases became a staple in the region's sports culture. The narrative also highlights his deep connections with players and fans, including a touching story of his father's friendship with Nate Thurmond. Tait's influence on broadcasting and his enduring legacy in Cleveland sports are profoundly felt.
The Cleveland Arena and Richfield Coliseum are long gone, but they and the Cavaliers teams from 1970 to the 1990s come alive in this personal history by a sportswriter who was there as a young fan and later an NBA beat writer. From expansion team to the brink of greatness with Austin Carr, World B. Free, "Hot Rod" Williams, Mark Price, and others.