Here's why:
* Historical Setting: The book is set in the 1930s and 1940s, during a pivotal period in American history marked by the Great Depression and World War II.
* Real Events and Figures: While fictionalized, the story is based on real events, like the rise of basketball in the American Southwest and the struggles of black athletes to gain recognition and opportunity. Some characters are inspired by real individuals.
* Fictional Narrative: The book tells a fictional story, focusing on the lives and experiences of its characters. While grounded in historical context, it uses fictional elements to explore themes of race, prejudice, and personal growth.
While "Glory Road" explores sports themes, it's more than just a sports novel. The historical context and focus on social issues contribute to its classification as historical fiction.