Maine basketball fans are likely to remember Philip Ripton as the first 1,000-point scorer at Nokomis High School. That was in 1968-69 and Ripton has been part of the basketball world since then. The Ripton family has represented Maine sports well and Phil has remained an avid fan and observer. Now he has put some of the lessons learned from those years of experience to paper and has published his first book, “Rips Roundball and Redemption” is available online, in many local stores or from the author himself.

Interested readers may purchase the book in Bangor from Borders Bookstore and Lamb’s Book Store or from Lighthouse Bookstore in Fairfield. Books may be purchased from the author by calling 368-5507 or by e-mail at [email protected]. Autographed copies are available at no extra cost.

The book discusses basketball strategies and lessons that can be learned from the game. Ripton has emphasized important leadership skills as well as moral and spiritual lessons. His hope is that readers will find the book entertaining and useful. The book is a collection of memories from a lifelong interest in the sport of basketball. It will provide great discussion starters for basketball enthusiasts of any age. Ripton writes, “the coaching of basketball allows an opportunity to teach and establish positive morals and values. We, as coaches, parents, and educators must help develop the minds and hearts of student athletes.”

The publishing date of the book was meant to coincide with the beginnings of basketball season as well as the holiday season. Books are also available online from Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com and from www.authorhouse.com, where the book is currently listed as number twelve on the bestseller list.