Critical analysis of "Why we play basketball" by Sherman Alexie

Critical analysis of "Why we play basketball"

In his poem "Why We Play Basketball," Sherman Alexie explores the cultural significance of basketball in Native American communities. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, Alexie argues that basketball serves as a means of both escape and empowerment for Native American youth.

Alexie begins his poem by describing his own experiences growing up on the Spokane Indian Reservation in Washington State. He recalls how basketball provided him and his friends with a sense of purpose and community, even in the face of poverty and discrimination. As he puts it, "On the reservation...basketball was our religion, the gymnasium was our church."

Throughout the poem, Alexie draws on a range of cultural references to underscore the importance of basketball in Native American life. He cites the example of Jim Thorpe, the legendary Native American athlete who won Olympic gold medals in both the pentathlon and decathlon in 1912. He also references the Harlem Globetrotters, the famous exhibition team that featured several Native American players in the 1940s and 1950s.

Perhaps most strikingly, Alexie uses the figure of the "Indian basketball player" as a symbol of resilience and defiance in the face of historical trauma. He notes that many Native American communities have been subjected to forced relocation, cultural suppression, and other forms of violence over the years. In this context, basketball becomes a way for young people to assert their identity and reclaim their dignity. As Alexie writes, "We played basketball as if our lives depended on it...because maybe they did."

In conclusion, Sherman Alexie's poem "Why We Play Basketball" offers a powerful meditation on the role of sports in Native American culture. By highlighting the ways in which basketball can provide a sense of belonging, pride, and hope, Alexie makes a compelling case for the enduring appeal of this game. Through his vivid storytelling and thoughtful analysis, he reminds us that sports can be much more than just a pastime—they can be a means of survival and resistance in the face of adversity.

Thank you.