The Best Nonfiction Sports Books to Read in 2025 offer more than just stories—they capture the heart, strategy, and resilience that define the world of sports. Whether it’s the untold journeys of legendary athletes, the tactical brilliance behind iconic moments, or the inspiring rise of underdogs, these books provide an insider’s look at history in the making. As we step into 2025, Curated by Storizen, this selection promises to ignite your passion for the game—no matter which sport you love.
1. Together We Roared by Steve Williams and Evin Priest
For over a decade, Steve Williams was more than just Tiger Woods’ caddie—he was his trusted partner in one of golf’s most dominant eras. In Together We Roared, co-written with golf journalist Evin Priest, Steve shares never-before-told stories from their 12-year journey, offering an intimate look at their pursuit of greatness, from Tiger’s iconic Masters chip-in to the historic Tiger Slam and his unforgettable U.S. Open win on a broken leg. Beyond the trophies, Steve reveals the personal side of their bond—Tiger caddying at his wedding, delivering a heartfelt best man speech, and the unexpected end to their partnership that led to 12 years of silence before they reconnected. Featuring rare photos and behind-the-scenes moments, this book is both a tribute to an extraordinary friendship and a firsthand account of what it was like to stand beside one of the greatest athletes of all time.
2. Triumphs, Trophies and Troubles by Peter Bills
In Triumphs, Trophies and Troubles, award-winning rugby writer Peter Bills delves into the remarkable rise of Irish rugby, from a nation once fiercely protective of its amateur roots to standing atop the world rankings in 2024. Through interviews with legends like Keith Wood, Willie John McBride, and Gordon D’Arcy, as well as grassroots heroes from clubs across Ireland, Bills explores the game at every level—schools, provinces, the rapidly growing women’s game—and the challenges it faces in coexisting with the dominant GAA. With a foreword by former Ireland fly-half Ollie Campbell, this book is both a celebration of Irish rugby’s extraordinary journey and a heartfelt examination of the sport’s future in the country’s rich sporting landscape.
3. The Art of Batting by Jarrod Kimber
In The Art of Batting, cricket’s rich history meets expert analysis in an exploration of what sets the greatest batters apart. While most react to the ball, the true masters anticipate—seeing what others can’t. From Javed Miandad’s strategic missteps to Sachin Tendulkar’s pitch-altering brilliance, and from Shivnarine Chanderpaul’s relentless beach training to Joe Root’s unconventional spin mastery, this book uncovers the science, skill, and instinct behind batting excellence. Featuring insights from legends like Rahul Dravid, Brian Lara, and Nasser Hussain, The Art of Batting reveals the unconventional methods and extraordinary stories of the 50 greatest batters of all time, offering a deep dive into the mindset, technique, and genius required to dominate with the willow.
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4. Talking Baseball with Major League Stars by Wayne Stewart
In Talking Baseball with Major League Stars, veteran sportswriter Wayne Stewart takes readers deep inside Major League Baseball through the voices of the players themselves. Drawing from over 45 years of interviews, Stewart shares candid insights from legends like Hank Aaron, Greg Maddux, Joe Torre, and Nolan Ryan, covering everything from the toughest pitchers they faced to the unwritten rules of the game. With firsthand accounts of rivalries, cheating scandals, clubhouse antics, and personal struggles—including racism, intimidation, and self-doubt—this book offers an unparalleled look at the sport through the eyes of those who lived it. Featuring exclusive stories from over fifty Hall of Famers and spanning nearly a century of baseball history, Talking Baseball with Major League Stars is a must-read for any true fan of America’s pastime.
5. I Felt the Cheers: The Remarkable Silent Life of Curtis Pride by Curtis Pride
In I Felt the Cheers, Curtis Pride shares his inspiring journey from a determined young athlete to a celebrated Major League Baseball player, despite being profoundly deaf since birth. With a foreword by Hall of Famer Cal Ripken Jr., this heartfelt memoir captures Pride’s unwavering resolve as he overcame skepticism and barriers to play for teams like the Yankees, Red Sox, and Braves. More than just a baseball story, this book is a testament to resilience, proving that obstacles can become strengths. Now a coach and advocate for inclusivity in sports, Pride’s story is a powerful reminder that with perseverance and belief, even the most impossible dreams can come true.
6. On Her Game: Caitlin Clark and the Revolution in Women’s Sports by Christine Brennan
In On Her Game, award-winning sports journalist Christine Brennan captures the meteoric rise of Caitlin Clark, a generational talent who has transformed women’s basketball. From shattering NCAA scoring records to driving unprecedented WNBA ticket sales and TV ratings, Clark’s impact extends far beyond the court. With exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes insights, this book chronicles her record-breaking rookie year, the media frenzy surrounding her, and the cultural shift she has sparked in how female athletes are perceived. A sports icon in the making, Clark is proving that women’s sports can command the same spotlight, influence, and commercial success as men’s—paving the way for future generations.
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7. Magic in the Air: The Myth, the Mystery, and the Soul of the Slam Dunk by Mike Sielski
In Magic in the Air, the bestselling author of The Rise explores the slam dunk—not just as a game-changing move, but as a cultural force that reshaped basketball and American society. From Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell revolutionizing the sport to the high-flying legends of today, the dunk has been a symbol of power, resistance, and Black athletic excellence. Banned from college basketball for nearly a decade, it defied suppression to fuel the NBA’s rise into a global phenomenon. Blending deep reporting, player interviews, and sharp cultural analysis, this book is a riveting history of the most electrifying shot in the game.
8. Football, Taught By Matt Busby by Wayne Barton
In Football, Taught by Matt Busby, Wayne Barton unravels the DNA of Manchester United, tracing its identity from Newton Heath to its global dominance. Through never-before-heard interviews with Sir Matt Busby and Sir Alex Ferguson, along with insights from over a hundred players, managers, and officials, this book examines the philosophy that shaped United’s success. At a time when the club’s identity is under scrutiny, Barton connects the intricate details of its playing style across eras, making this a must-read for fans, historians, and coaches alike.
9. The Power of the Badge: How a Football Club Created Trust in the Community by Robert Littlewood
The Power of the Badge: How a Football Club Created Trust in the Community is the inspiring true story of how devoted Chesterfield FC supporters saved their club—twice. After a corrupt owner stole its funds and was jailed, fans stepped in to run the club, keeping it afloat against all odds. Following relegation from the Football League, the community trust once again took charge, guiding Chesterfield back to glory. This gripping tale of resilience, passion, and community spirit showcases how football is more than just a game—it’s a lifeline.
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From unforgettable rivalries to behind-the-scenes revelations, the Best Nonfiction Sports Books to Read in 2025 offer something for every sports enthusiast. These books go beyond the scoreboard, diving into the passion, perseverance, and defining moments that shape the world of athletics. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual reader, this curated selection by Storizen ensures you’ll find inspiration, insight, and a deeper appreciation for the games we love.
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