In a text full of suffering and misfortune, there is also a recurring motif of silver linings, suggesting that even the most tragic or unfortunate experiences can be used as a launchpad for something positive. The first example of this comes when Samuel’s village is attacked while he is at the showcase tournament in America. Prior to this happening, Lonnie is on the fence about Samuel and isn’t sure he wants to offer him a scholarship. However, given the circumstances, he feels sorry for Samuel and offers to take him in out of kindness and as a favor to Ecko, his longtime friend. In the moment, Samuel is devastated and can think of nothing but returning home to find his mother and brothers. However, this is impossible, and he is forced to stay in America, which begins his improbable rise to the top of collegiate basketball. Significantly less tragic, but in the same vein, is that Murray finally starts to play better after Robin dumps him. Initially, he is upset, but the change means he becomes much more focused on basketball and becomes an integral part of the team.

Another example occurs when a massive snowstorm hits Durham the night before the team is supposed to leave for their first tournament game.