The Best Basketball Documentaries to Watch Now

Description: This film follows the lives of two African-American high school basketball players from Chicago as they navigate the challenges of school, family, and the pressure to succeed in basketball. It's a raw, emotional journey that captures the essence of the American Dream through the lens of basketball.

Fact: Hoop Dreams was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature and is often cited as one of the greatest documentaries ever made.

Description: This film showcases the 2006 Boost Mobile Elite 24 Hoops Classic, featuring future NBA stars like Kevin Durant and Greg Oden. It's a snapshot of raw talent and the dreams of young athletes.

Fact: The documentary was directed by Adam Yauch of the Beastie Boys, adding a unique cultural perspective to the basketball narrative.

Description: This documentary traces LeBron James' journey from high school to the NBA, showcasing his bond with his childhood friends and teammates. It's a story of friendship, ambition, and the making of a basketball icon.

Fact: The film features interviews with LeBron James, his mother, and his high school coach, offering an intimate look at his early life.

Description: This 10-part series chronicles the career of Michael Jordan, focusing on the 1997–98 Chicago Bulls season. It's not just about basketball; it's about leadership, rivalry, and the pursuit of greatness.

Fact: The documentary was released during the 2020 NBA shutdown, providing fans with a much-needed dose of basketball nostalgia.

Description: This documentary explores the intense rivalry between Reggie Miller and the New York Knicks, focusing on their playoff battles in the 1990s. It's a tale of trash talk, clutch moments, and the passion of basketball fans.

Fact: Reggie Miller's famous "8 points in 9 seconds" against the Knicks is one of the most iconic moments in NBA playoff history.

Description: Part of ESPN's 30 for 30 series, this documentary tells the story of Vlade Divac and Dražen Petrović, two Yugoslavian basketball stars whose friendship was torn apart by the Balkan War. It's a poignant look at how politics can affect personal relationships.

Fact: The film includes interviews with other NBA stars and provides a broader context of the war's impact on sports.

Description: This documentary delves into the life of Jimmy "The Greek" Snyder, a controversial figure in sports broadcasting known for his bold predictions and his eventual downfall. It's a look at the intersection of sports, media, and race.

Fact: The film includes interviews with sports figures like Brent Musburger and explores the impact of Snyder's controversial comments on his career.

Description: This Netflix series follows the Chinle High School basketball team from the Navajo Nation in Arizona. It's not just about the game but also about the cultural and personal struggles of the players.

Fact: The series was praised for its authentic portrayal of Native American youth and their passion for basketball.

Description: Directed by Spike Lee, this film gives an inside look at Kobe Bryant's preparation and mindset during a single game. It's a masterclass in basketball IQ and work ethic.

Fact: The film was shot during a Lakers game against the San Antonio Spurs, providing an unfiltered view of Kobe's on-court decisions.

Description: This documentary focuses on Julius Erving, aka Dr. J, exploring his career, his impact on the game, and his life off the court. It's a tribute to one of basketball's most graceful players.

Fact: The film features interviews with basketball legends like Magic Johnson and Larry Bird, who discuss Erving's influence on their careers.