Two for one here: both tell the true story of a famous athlete (or 2) and how they overcame adversity to succeed in their chosen sport.
Long Shot: Never Too Small to Dream Big by Chris Paul (NBA All-Star), Simon and Schuster, 2009, ISBN 978-1-4169-5079-0
Publisher's Summary: Although he is shorter than most of his classmates and everyone discourages him from trying out for the basketball team, 8-year-old Chris just works harder than everyone else so his size will not matter.
By My Brother's Side by Tiki and Ronde Barber, Simon and Schuster, 2004, ISBN 0-689-86559-7
Publisher's Summary: Introduces twin brothers Tiki and Ronde Barber, who worked hard to overcome onstacles and become NFL stars, one as a running back for the NY Giants and the other a cornerback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
These two books, along with Michael Jordan's story, Salt in His Shoes, would provide a great way to compare and contrast these characters. They each overcame obstacles, had family support and encouragement, and worked hard, showing determination, in order to get where they are today.
