Head Fake

Longlisted for the 2025 PEN/Hemingway Award for Debut Novel and Named to Kirkus Reviews' Best Books of 2024

"An absorbing, uplifting tale of finding light and self-worth in adversity's darkest depths."-Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

"Head Fake is about how laughter can save us."-Chris Rock, comedian, actor

"Scott Gordon writes with profound candor, wit, and empathy about people on the edge, people who could just really use a few wins." -Chris Bachelder, author of four novels, including National Book Award finalist, The Throwback Special

"Head Fake is a wonderful read on so many levels."-Nick Nurse, 2020 NBA Coach of the Year

"This story will gut you, and change your perception of those we deem outcasts forever."-Eve Porinchak, bestselling author of One Cut  

"...just the right flavor of insight and fun to keep readers enjoying and thinking."-D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review

"Head Fake is nothing but net."-Mark Stevens, author of The Fireballer

"Scott's ability to merge character development without slowing plot is simply amazing. I love this book!"-Rodney Barnes, Writer, Winning Time: Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, The Boondocks, American Gods

"Head Fake is a masterful debut."-Gary Lennon, writer and Executive Producer of Euphoria and Power

"The author's deep compassion for his cast of underdogs and misfits is infectious..."-IndieReader

"Of course, this story's not about basketball. It's about not giving up. On anybody. Not even yourself."-Staci Greason, author, All the Girls in Town

"Bring on the National Book Award."-David Wolthoff, Producer of Concussion 

"I strongly recommend it!"-Los Angeles Book Review

"5 stars!" -Chicago Book Review