Samuel Sooleymon is the tragic protagonist of the novel. Grisham’s plot-forward writing style leaves him a somewhat shallow character, even at the time of his death, but he is relentlessly hard-working and positive. Under the guidance of various mentors, Samuel travels from the known world of Lotta and South Sudan to the unknown world of America to try to make his fortune and find his place in the world. He sets out with three goals in mind: better outcomes for South Sudan, success in basketball, and safety for himself and his family. However, instead of ending on a triumphant, heroic note, Samuel reaches the apex of fame and fortune only to die suddenly at a festival mere days after being drafted to the NBA.

Much of Samuel’s story is also framed as a fish-out-of-water narrative. First, he goes to Juba and is awestruck by the sheer size and business of the city compared to his rural village. Next, he must adjust to life in America without his family and, later, learn to live with the attention that comes with fame. This journey to find a new home and sense of belonging is mirrored on the court.