Play Makers by Mike Lupica (Game Changers #2)

In this sequel to Game Changers, readers follow Ben McBain and his friends from the amazing season of football into the winter basketball season.  Not quite wanting to let football season go, Ben starts to get geared up for basketball, meeting a new rival in a boy from a neighboring town. 

In Play Makers (Lexile: 920; Interest Level: Grades 3-7), Ben discovers that he may not be the best player in the league this year.  He strives hard to get better and better, but he encounters some consequences that will affect his whole team.  And his rivalry with Chase, the new boy in the league is about more than just ball.  Will Ben be able to overcome his jealousy of this new boy, both for his basketball skills and his interest in Ben's friend Lily?

I recommend this book for fans of Mike Lupica, basketball, and good middle grade stories.  However, you may want to read Game Changers first, as there are several allusions to the football season in this story. (224 p.)

---