"Nolan Richardson's extraordinary life and success as the University of Arkansas' coach are an important chapter in the history of our country's struggle for racial equality, with all the excitement of the Final Four. What an incredible journey! I am grateful that I got to see a lot of it first hand and to know such an able and remarkable man."
- President Bill Clinton
"This is a great story about America and its hidden histories. Nolan Richardson understands the struggle because he did the heavy lifting. Every black college coach with a good job today owes Nolan Richardson a measure of respect for the fearless way he kicked down doors. Every American should thank him for showing us it was possible.
- Charles Barkley
"I've never read a sports book I would describe as operatic until now. Nolan Richardson's story, both unique and universal, would challenge the most seasoned biographer, but Bradburd's libretto is heartbreaking and inspiring. This is the finest sports biography I've read in years, hands down."
- Dave Zirin, author, A People's History of Sports in the United States
Establishes Richardson as one of college basketball’s most compelling figures, both because of and in spite of his race.
- Kirkus Reviews
Forty Minutes of Hell: The Extraordinary Life of Nolan Richardson was published by Amistad, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers.
Read Rus Bradburd's piece on teaching his dribbling drills to Portland Trailblazer Jerryd Bayless here.
Read Dan McGrath’s New York Times feature on Rus Bradburd here.
Read Rus’s LA Times piece on Jerry West here.
Read Sports Illustrated's piece on Nolan Richardson and Bert Williams and their role in desegregating El Paso here.
