If you enjoyed the intense drama and high-stakes competition of 'The Cost of Winning (2020),' you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same themes of ambition, sacrifice, and the price of success. Whether you're a fan of gripping narratives or thought-provoking storytelling, these recommendations will keep you hooked.

White Men Can't Jump (1992)
Description: This film explores street basketball culture and the hustle involved in making a name for oneself, touching on themes of competition, identity, and the lengths people go to prove their worth.
Fact: The title was inspired by a real-life comment made by a basketball player who claimed white men couldn't jump as high as Black players.


Above the Rim (1994)
Description: A drama that delves into the challenges faced by a talented high school basketball player, including gang influence, personal loyalty, and the struggle to stay focused on his dreams.
Fact: The film's soundtrack was a commercial success, featuring contributions from prominent hip-hop artists like Tupac Shakur and Warren G.


Blue Chips (1994)
Description: This film tackles the ethical dilemmas and corruption in college basketball, focusing on the sacrifices and compromises made by players and coaches in the pursuit of victory.
Fact: Several real-life college basketball players and coaches made cameo appearances, adding authenticity to the film's portrayal of the sport.


Hoop Dreams (1994)
Description: A gripping documentary that follows two young basketball players striving to make it to the NBA, highlighting the struggles, societal pressures, and personal sacrifices involved in pursuing athletic success.
Fact: Originally intended to be a 30-minute short film, it evolved into a nearly three-hour documentary after filmmakers spent five years following the subjects.


He Got Game (1998)
Description: A drama that examines the pressures faced by a high school basketball prodigy, including family expectations, exploitation, and the moral dilemmas that come with fame and talent.
Fact: The film's soundtrack features music by Public Enemy, including the iconic track 'He Got Game,' which was specifically composed for the movie.


Glory Road (2006)
Description: This film chronicles the true story of the first all-Black starting lineup in NCAA basketball history, highlighting themes of racial integration, perseverance, and the transformative power of sports.
Fact: The real-life players depicted in the film served as consultants to ensure the accuracy of the basketball scenes and historical details.


Coach Carter (2005)
Description: Based on a true story, this film highlights the importance of discipline, education, and personal growth alongside athletic achievement, emphasizing the broader life lessons sports can teach.
Fact: The real-life Coach Carter's strict policies, including locking the gym until players improved their grades, were accurately depicted in the film.


Uncut Gems (2019)
Description: While centered around a jeweler with a gambling addiction, the film shares themes of high-stakes risk-taking and the relentless pursuit of success, mirroring the tension and pressure found in competitive sports narratives.
Fact: Adam Sandler's performance was widely praised, marking a significant departure from his usual comedic roles and earning him several award nominations.


The Last Dance (2020)
Description: This documentary series delves deep into the competitive world of professional basketball, focusing on the intense pressures and sacrifices required to achieve greatness. It shares a thematic focus on the high stakes and personal costs associated with elite sports.
Fact: The series features never-before-seen footage from the 1997-98 Chicago Bulls season, providing an unprecedented look into Michael Jordan's final championship run.


The Way Back (2020)
Description: A story of redemption through sports, focusing on a struggling alcoholic who finds purpose by coaching a high school basketball team, illustrating how sports can serve as a path to personal salvation.
Fact: Ben Affleck's performance was deeply personal, as he drew from his own experiences with addiction and recovery for the role.
