"The Basketball Diaries" is a memoir by Jim Carroll that chronicles his teenage years in New York City. The book details his experiences as a high school basketball player, his passion for the sport, and the challenges he faces as he descends into drug addiction. The narrative captures the struggles of adolescence, friendship, and the impact of addiction on youth. Through vivid storytelling, Carroll reflects on his life, the allure of the streets, and the consequences of his choices, making it a poignant exploration of the darker side of growing up.