Final answer:
Walter most likely plays basketball and other sports because his socio-economic environment views sports as a viable path to success, the urban geography makes certain sports more accessible, and local cultural behaviors promote sports participation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most likely reason why Walter plays basketball and other sports can be attributed to the socio-economic environment in which he is being raised. In many urban and working-class neighborhoods, sports are seen as a pathway to success.
The aspiration to become professional athletes like NBA or NFL stars can be a strong motivator. This drive is reinforced by the financial and cultural rewards of the professional sports industry, the community's reverence for star athletes, and the limited opportunities for socioeconomic advancement in these areas.
Furthermore, the geography of where Walter resides may play an important role. Urban areas often have less space for sports like baseball or football, making basketball a more accessible option.
The local culture of sports, coupled with the presence of role models and the positive feedback loop from local athletes who achieve fame, encourage young people to participate in sports intensely. This also points to a cultural behavior of sports as a form of performance and a means for young people to gain social acceptance and success.
Finally, the fact that exceptional athletes often emerge from regions with a high passion for a particular sport indicates that Walter may be engaging in sports as part of a local virtuous circle driven by competition and the desire to follow in the footsteps of local heroes.