As noted in "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance," when the legend becomes the fact, print the legend.

President Obama is often praised for his prowess on the basketball court, but much of that hoops success is allegedly greatly exaggerated.

That's one of the many things you'll learn from reading David Maraniss's new biography inside the life of America's commander-in-chief.

As a high school hoops player in Hawaii, Obama earned a roster spot "more because of his intense passion for the game -- his will -- than anything else. …The reality was that Barry, as skilled and intelligent a player as he was, could not stand out in this group," said the author of "Barack Obama: The Story," via the Washington Post.

If you follow the White House, chances are good you've heard Obama's nickname in Hawaii hoops was Barry O'Bomber. Folklore says it's because of his long range shooting ability, on the other hand, the book says only a handful of teammates recall such a nickname.

As for his basketball ability, that is also up for debate.

"He loved basketball so much, I think a lot of things have been blown out of proportion,” said [former teammate Alan] Lum in the book (Via Politico). Obama's own high school coach, Chris McLachlin, according to the book, poked fun at the future president, calling him Barry Obama, famous for his no-jump, jump shot!"

Granted, how much of this you believe (or care) certainly depends on which side of the aisle your political thinking sways.

-- Follow Ben Maller on Twitter @BenMaller.

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