Here’s a selection of basketball movies worth checking out:
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Hustle (2022)
Adam Sandler stars as a washed-up basketball scout who discovers a raw talent overseas and sees his chance for a comeback.
A great mix of heart and basketball grit.
The Way Back (2020)
Ben Affleck plays a former basketball star struggling with alcoholism who finds a shot at redemption coaching his old high school team.
A moving story about second chances on and off the court.
High Flying Bird (2019)
A thought-provoking film about a sports agent who attempts to disrupt the power dynamics of the NBA during a lockout.
Intriguing and offers a unique perspective on the business side of basketball.
Amateur (2018)
A talented young basketball player struggles to navigate the world of elite prep schools and intense recruiting pressure.
A realistic look at the less glamorous path to basketball stardom.
Space Jam: A New Legacy (2021)
LeBron James takes over from Michael Jordan, teaming up with the Looney Tunes crew for a high-stakes basketball game in a virtual world.
It’s silly but fun, especially if you’re into the original Space Jam.
Hoosiers (1986)
Hoosiers is arguably the most famous basketball movie of all time.
Based on a true story, a small-town Indiana high school team with a new coach overcomes adversity to aim for the state championship.
Hoop Dreams (1994)
A powerful documentary that follows two young basketball players from inner-city Chicago as they chase their dreams of playing in the NBA.
A raw and poignant look at the realities of the sport.
White Men Can’t Jump (1992)
Woody Harrelson and Wesley Snipes play streetball hustlers with amazing skills and hilarious trash talk.
A classic buddy comedy with some great playground basketball action.
He Got Game (1998)
A Spike Lee film starring Denzel Washington as a convict offered temporary release if he can convince his top-ranked son (played by NBA star Ray Allen) to sign with the governor’s alma mater.
Explores family dynamics and the pressures of big-time college basketball.
Blue Chips (1994)
Nick Nolte as a struggling college coach who resorts to unethical recruiting practices, highlighting the dark side of college athletics.
Features Shaquille O’Neal and Penny Hardaway as prospects.
Love & Basketball (2000)
Follows two childhood friends as their lives and basketball careers intertwine.
A heartwarming story with a strong female lead.
Above the Rim (1994)
A talented high school player gets mixed up with a dangerous older brother and must decide between a future in basketball or a life on the streets.
Features Tupac Shakur in a supporting role.
Sunset Park (1996)
Rhea Perlman stars as a high school teacher forced to coach a troubled and undisciplined basketball team.
A feel-good story with a focus on mentorship.
The Air Up There (1994)
A college basketball coach travels to Africa in search of a new star and finds a player with extraordinary talent but from a remote village.
A bit lighthearted and predictable, but still an entertaining watch.
The Fish That Saved Pittsburgh (1979)
A truly bizarre film featuring Julius “Dr. J” Erving.
A struggling Pittsburgh basketball team gains a winning streak thanks to the help of an astrologer. Outlandish, but a cult classic for some.
Coach Carter (2005)
Samuel L. Jackson plays a controversial coach who locks his undefeated high school team out of the gym and emphasizes academics over sports. Inspired by a true story.
