We Are Family

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of illness, bullying, child abuse, physical abuse, addiction, and gender discrimination.

Jayden is one of the main protagonists, and since the book introduces him first, the implication is that Jayden is the main character. Of the five Hoop Group members, Jayden is the most talented and has the best chance to make the NBA. Jayden isn’t unaware of his natural basketball abilities, but he’s not overconfident. He methodically cultivates his skills. During the summer, he practiced at the Blocks in the afternoon, and when school starts, he practices in the early mornings. The narrator describes Jayden as a “kid with D-I dreams, NBA fantasies, and a silky-smooth jumper he prays will get him there” (13). Jayden’s long-term motivation is to play professional basketball and take care of his supportive mother and grandmother. His short-term goal is to get recruited by Willow Brook—a prestigious prep school with an acclaimed basketball program that will lead to college basketball (his “D-I dreams”). Jayden’s discipline makes his dreams seem possible.

At the same time, Jayden isn’t unflappable. When Roddy, Jayden’s mentor, stands in the middle of the paint instead of challenging him, Jayden gives up.