I purchased Personal Foul a few months back after reading the excerpts that were leaked on the internet. At first I was surprised by some of the allegations posted and was in need for more. However, my hopes were crushed when I read that the publisher pulled out in the last minute..
But to the rescue came along another publisher who had the balls and chose to publish the book. In my opinion this is a good thing, because the book is more than just allegations.
Personal Foul is the memoir and story of Tim Donaghy – the former NBA referee who, got himself caught up in a betting scandal. The book tells the story of a young boy growing up who looked up to his father, had dreams and aspirations to play or referee in the NBA some day. Well, he didn’t get to play in the NBA, but he did become a referee.
We are told of a happily married man with kids and a successful career, refereeing in the NBA – who wouldn’t want that job? mingling with all the superstars of basketball and other celebrities. Eventually Tim is introduced to childhood friends who became involved in organised crime and inevitably, that’s where things began. He began living a life as a ‘double agent’ so to speak, providing people insider information about NBA games, who was most likely to win out of the match ups and other advantageous information.
He eventually became a gambling addict himself, betting on anything and everything, daily. From here, we begin to see a decline in his own personal life, increased lies, paranoia and everything that he loved and cherished eventually falling to bits.
I found this book an enjoyable read and an insight of how certain addictions can get you into terrible situations. Recommended.
