If you were moved by the inspiring true story of 'Through the Banks of the Red Cedar' (2018), you'll love these 10 similar films and shows. This article explores heartfelt sports documentaries and dramas that capture the spirit of perseverance, family, and triumph against the odds—just like the journey of Gene Washington and his legacy at Michigan State.
Hoop Dreams (1994)
Description: This documentary follows the lives of two young basketball players, exploring themes of ambition, struggle, and the impact of sports on personal and community identity.
Fact: Originally intended to be a 30-minute short, it evolved into a nearly three-hour epic. It was one of the first documentaries to be released on DVD by the Criterion Collection.
Watch Now 
When We Were Kings (1996)
Description: This documentary captures a historic sporting event, blending sports with cultural and political significance, much like the way sports can reflect broader societal themes.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature and features performances by James Brown and B.B. King.
Watch Now 
He Got Game (1998)
Description: A drama that delves into the pressures faced by young athletes, particularly the complex relationships between family, ambition, and the sports industry.
Fact: The film's soundtrack features music by Public Enemy, including the iconic song 'He Got Game,' which was specifically created for the movie.
Watch Now 
Glory Road (2006)
Description: A sports drama that tells the true story of a team breaking racial barriers, emphasizing themes of perseverance and social change.
Fact: The film is based on the 1966 Texas Western College basketball team, the first to start five African-American players in an NCAA championship game.
Watch Now 
Coach Carter (2005)
Description: This film focuses on a high school basketball coach who prioritizes academics and discipline, showcasing the transformative power of sports beyond the court.
Fact: The real-life Coach Carter's contract was initially terminated for his strict policies, but he was reinstated after public outcry from parents and players.
Watch Now 
O.J.: Made in America (2016)
Description: A comprehensive exploration of a sports figure's rise and fall, examining how race, fame, and the justice system intersect in America.
Fact: At nearly eight hours long, it is one of the longest films to win an Academy Award, taking home the Oscar for Best Documentary Feature.
Watch Now 
The Last Dance (2020)
Description: A deep dive into the career of a legendary basketball player, highlighting the intersection of sports, culture, and personal legacy.
Fact: The series was moved up in its release schedule to fill the gap in sports content during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Watch Now 
The Heart of the Game (2005)
Description: A documentary that chronicles the journey of a high school girls' basketball team, highlighting themes of teamwork, resilience, and personal growth.
Fact: The film was shot over seven years, providing an in-depth look at the players' lives both on and off the court.
Watch Now 
Soul of the Game (1996)
Description: A TV movie that dramatizes the lives of Negro League baseball players, focusing on the challenges and triumphs of African-American athletes in a segregated America.
Fact: The film features a young Blair Underwood as Jackie Robinson, before he broke Major League Baseball's color barrier.
30 Days Free 
