The Heart of a Superfan

Description

The Raptors’ story is an underdog story—and the same is true for their greatest superfan. This instant #1 bestselling memoir offers a courtside view into the extraordinary life of Nav Bhatia.

You know him as the Raptors Superfan, but Nav Bhatia’s story is bigger than basketball.

Nav immigrated to Canada from India after experiencing many hardships—only to face a host of new challenges. Life as an immigrant was gruelling and grey . . . and then, a new basketball team came to town. As Nav cheered on the Toronto Raptors at game after game, as they lost, as they won, on the good days and the bad, he discovered inspiration and community in the greatest game on Earth, formed life-long bonds with many of the best players the sport has ever known, and solidified his own place in the Basketball Hall of Fame.

In this memoir, Nav shares his incredible personal story of triumphing over adversity, as well as the lessons that propelled him to success in all facets of life: as an entrepreneur, movie producer, humanitarian, son, father and husband, and the Raptors’ most dedicated supporter. And woven throughout the book are intimate, colourful behind-the-scenes stories about the Raptors—from their very first game in 1995 to their 2019 Championship win, and beyond—that only the Superfan could know.

This is a book about loyalty, perseverance and the power of sports to unite us across differences—and, most of all, about how following your passions can lead you to the most extraordinary places.Instant #1 National Bestseller

“I met Nav Bhatia early on in my career in Toronto. We instantly connected. He wants nothing but the best for people. He treats every player like they are family no matter where they are playing. His story is one of determination and dedication—traits that have made him successful. I can honestly say I am lucky to have Nav in my corner.” —DeMar DeRozan, professional basketball player for the Chicago Bulls, former Toronto Raptor

“When I was part-owner and general manager of the Toronto Raptors, I began to notice this one fan who showed up to every Raptors game and cheered louder than anyone else in the arena. Well, he made us all notice him! And we’re lucky he did. Nav Bhatia is an example to us all of how to move through this world with integrity.” —Isiah Thomas, co-founder of the Toronto Raptors, 2x champion with the Detroit Pistons, Hall Of Fame 2000, NBA Top 50/75

“Nav Bhatia was one of the first people I met in Toronto. I have never met someone so passionate about basketball. How he brought everyone together using his love of the Raptors is a story worth reading.” —Scottie Barnes, professional basketball player for the Toronto Raptors

“This book will remind you of the power of sports to connect us all. Nav Bhatia’s dedication to the Toronto Raptors organization exemplifies his loyalty to friends and family. I’m honoured that he is our friend, and happy that he wears our jersey.” —Larry Tanenbaum, Chairman of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment

“I’ve known Nav Bhatia for many years now. I often say that it’s because of fans like Nav that we play this beautiful game. His story is as exciting as a championship series. It’ll surprise you, make you hold your breath and get you cheering. He has overcome so much and come out a champion.” —Mark Tatum, NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer

“Nav Bhatia’s story is one of triumph for every immigrant. Everything he did was take the hard road. He never took the easy way out. His story is of perseverance, of heart and a true example of how we should all strive to live our lives. See you courtside!” —Russell Peters, comedian and author of Call Me Russell
NAV BHATIA is better known as the Raptors Superfan. He is an entrepreneur, motivational speaker and philanthropist. He runs the Nav Bhatia Superfan Foundation, which is dedicated to raising money to build basketball camps and courts for kids in Canada and across the globe, among other charitable endeavours. When the Raptors won the 2019 NBA Championship, he was the first fan in history to receive an official championship ring. In 2020, he was honoured in a new superfan gallery at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. His life story is currently being adapted for the big screen by Kal Penn. He lives in Toronto.

TAMARA BALUJA is an award-winning journalist. She is a producer for CBC News in Vancouver, and has previously worked for The Globe and Mail, Newstalk 1010 and the Toronto Star. She has lived in India, Oman and England, and now calls Canada home.US

Additional information