Buffa’s writing style is distinct. He does not write in dry, chronological facts. Instead, he writes with the rhythm of a jazz musician. His prose is atmospheric, heavy with nostalgia, and rich with sensory details. He paints the steam rising from the pavement in urban courts and the smoky haze of old arenas.
The book traces Monroe’s journey from the streets of Philadelphia to the dominance at Winston-Salem under the tutelage of the legendary Clarence "Big House" Gaines, and finally to his complicated, triumphant career in the NBA with the Baltimore Bullets and New York Knicks. But Buffa uses Monroe as a vessel to explore a broader thesis: the integration of black culture, style, and "soul" into the NBA.
Buffa's artwork in "Black Jesus" is characterized by its vibrant colors, expressive characters, and dynamic compositions. His use of visual metaphors and symbolism adds depth and complexity to the narrative, making the graphic novel a compelling and thought-provoking read.