Ahead of the Game: The Pat Williams Story

Pat Williams has known the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat--both on the sidelines of the basketball court and in his personal life. In this engaging look at his life and career, he tells of big-name players, multimillion dollar deals, and nail-biting playoffs during his rise from minor league wunderkind to general manager of an NBA championship team. He also tells of his heart-crushing divorce and his battle with cancer. In Ahead of the Game he offers readers ten principles for success that will inspire them to live a winning life despite their challenges.

From the Back Cover

”It comes at you loud and clear with heart-wrenching honesty from one of the most magical people in all of sports."--Dick Ebersol

Pat Williams has known the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat--both on the sidelines of the basketball court and in his personal life. In this engaging look at his life and career, he tells of big-name players, multimillion-dollar deals, and nail-biting playoffs during his rise from minor league wunderkind to general manager of an NBA championship team. He also tells of deep personal struggles, such as his heart-crushing divorce and his battle with cancer.

Through these engaging stories, he shares ten proven principles for success that will inspire you to live a winning life despite the challenges that come your way.

“Pat’s integrity, passion, and heart will inspire and encourage you."--John C. Maxwell

"What a ride! Pat Williams is unbelievable!"--Jerry B. Jenkins


Pat Williams is senior vice president of the NBA’s Orlando Magic. He has more than fifty years of professional sports experience, has written dozens of books, including the popular Coach Wooden and The Difference You Make, and is one of America’s most sought-after motivational speakers. He lives in Florida. Learn more at www.patwilliams.com.

Jim Denney is a full-time freelance writer with more than one hundred published books to his credit. His collaborative titles include Reggie White in the Trenches, Undefeated, and numerous books with Pat Williams.