No cut and dry answers, no clich plot twists, no uber-heroes or extreme violence for the sake of violence. Often a film attempts to cover one or two issues that stand as obstacles for the main characters, but Love and Basketball covers a multitude of real issues, even attempting to demystify certain stereotypes. As children, we don't all grow up the same. Not every little girl wants to play with dolls, or do her hair. Parents don't always do what is best for their kids.
Kids can be cruel to each other.
Not all female athletes are gay. Not all male athletes are threatened if their girlfriend is one, too. Not all women are cut out for domesticity. The big plus is his father is an NBA basketball player. After an initial conflict, the two kids form a relationship that lasts about ten minutes, because unfortunately, little Monica has her scores and stats down.