Pure Shooters Are Born, Not Made
By Gregory V. Jones, Jr., Ph.D.
A powerful new book transports readers back to the summer of 1967, where a group of young basketball campers experience a once-in-a-lifetime midnight training session with college basketball icon "Pistol" Pete Maravich. Known for his record-breaking 44.2 points per game average, Maravich not only dazzles with his flawless shooting but also imparts timeless wisdom on what it means to be a "pure shooter" — a mindset that transcends the court.
In this compelling narrative, the campers defy curfew to witness Maravich's secret practice, returning balls after each shot — none of which miss. What unfolds is more than a basketball lesson; it's a masterclass in mental discipline, personal integrity, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Key Themes
- Mental ToughnessTotal concentration under pressure, tuning out distractions, and staying composed in the face of trash talk and adversity.
- Civilized Player BehaviorA call for sportsmanship and accountability in an era plagued by profanity, substance abuse, and disrespect on and off the court.
- Parental InterferenceA candid look at how overbearing parents can undermine young athletes' joy, confidence, and respect for authority.
- Practice and FundamentalsDrawing from Maravich's own regimen — 1,000+ jump shots a day, 100 consecutive free throws — the book emphasizes repetition, precision, and dedication.
Beyond basketball, the book expands these principles into broader life lessons, encouraging readers to apply the pure shooter's mindset to leadership, personal growth, and overcoming challenges. With vivid storytelling and practical takeaways, it's a must-read for athletes, coaches, parents, and anyone striving for excellence.
Pure Shooters Are Born, Not Made is available on Amazon and other major retailers. Learn more at pureshootersareborn.com.
Interview Topics
Gregory V. Jones, Jr., Ph.D. is available for interviews, Q&A's, and bylined articles and can speak on topics including:
- The author's overall writing process
- How the author was inspired by his own professional career
- How the story highlights the value of cultivating a life with meaningful intention through hard work and sports
- How the book empowers readers to discover their true aspirations through broader life lessons
About the Author
Gregory V. Jones, Jr., Ph.D. is a Durham, North Carolina native, former All-American basketball standout at Methodist University, and retired banking executive with over three decades of leadership in finance. As Managing Partner of Golden Gate Finance, LLC, he specializes in underwriting for churches, nonprofits, and commercial ventures. A published author and speaker on leadership and spiritual growth, Gregory's works — including JOB: A Man for His Time — have earned national recognition, including features on C-SPAN and top rankings on Amazon. He holds advanced degrees in Clinical Psychology and Sacred Theology, and has served on multiple nonprofit and athletic boards. His legacy spans sports, business, and faith-based advocacy.
Endorsements
"Greg Jones' book, Pure Shooters, is nothing short of phenomenal. His premise is not only substantive, but it also does a tremendous job in relating the game of basketball to the essence of life!"
Coach Leonard Hamilton
Florida State University, Head Men's Basketball Coach
"Dr. Jones has written a book about basketball…and about life. The disciplines a basketball player must master to rise to the level of a pure shooter are the same disciplines needed by those who want to rise above the level of mediocrity in life."
Dr. Charlie Dyer
Author; Professor-at-Large of Bible, Moody Bible Institute; Host, The Land and the Book; Former Executive Vice President, Dallas Theological Seminary
"PURE SHOOTER is what every basketball player desires to be. Entertaining, educational, and encouraging. One of the most unique basketball books ever written."
Coach Dale Clayton
Vice President, Nations of Coaches; Former Head Basketball Coach, Vanderbilt University; Former President, National Association of Basketball Coaches
"Beautifully written…I found it to be almost spiritual in nature…unique and thought-provoking work."
Coach Bob McElvoy
Retired Athletic Director, Methodist University; Member, NCAA Competition Committee
"This book should be a standard in every home, library, and business. A must read!"
Debbie Wells
Global Well-Being Project Coordinator, Strategic Partnership Marketing, The Coca-Cola Company
"Dr. Jones is a talented, gifted, and skillful writer. I view this book as a journey traveling through events, challenges, and experiences in this Big Round World of ours, viewed through the 'Eye' of a Small Round Basketball. I highly recommend this book!"
Dr. Wilbur L. Daniels, Sr.
President & CEO, W.L. Daniels and Associates — Maryland
"This is an outstanding book. Valuable words to carry into life. Strongly recommended."
Robert "Red" Migliore
Retired Athletic Director, St. Patrick High School, Elizabeth, NJ; 45+ years in basketball
"Pure Shooters Are Born Not Made embodies the principles of leadership, integrity, and fortitude within a basketball landscape. The book chronicles methods to discovering purpose and recovering lost dreams."
Coach Clinton Nixon
Chaplain, Executive Chef, former football player and coach, New York