TheHoopsCreative Selection: Top 5 Inspiring Basketball Films

                                                      

Cover Image Credit: Pexels


Since we are still in our houses, twiddling our thumbs, I thought about sharing some hoop films to help keep you motivated and inspired during these difficult times. To remind ourselves to be strong for ourselves and for each other. 

They are in no specific order, but all have their own stories and purpose. I believe these five movies teach us different perspectives on the game of basketball, as well as the game of life. The raw, real truth about humans being humans. No matter how talented or gifted.

1. Glory Road (2006)

Story Reflection Topic: The Effect of Racism during the 1960s

When a coach takes on the job of leading a starting lineup of all African-Americans, the world was watching and voicing their opinions. Imagine a storyline that is told in our history books, brought to life before our eyes. Yes, racism still exists today but not at this level in America. Where being black was dangerous. Your life was at risk in the world of sports. Especially when you're that talented. Families threatened and traveling to play was also tough as well. Society was not ready for black excellence. But, these boys did not care and neither did their coach. They were ready to win, no matter what.

2. Coach Carter (2005)

Story Reflection Topic: Development of Young Male Athletes 
in School vs Street

Taking place in Richmond, Virginia, a group of boys play for their high school basketball team. They were ranked as one of the worst teams in their league. Fortunately, they receive a new coach that was ready to discipline and set these boys on the right path. Each boy has their own story and vision for their way of living. However, most are not realistic, involving themselves around gangs and not taking school seriously. This powerful film is full of comedy and inspiring phrases. More importantly, it tells us how social issues make their mark in the lives of many athletes today.

3. Love and Basketball (2000)

Story Reflection Topic: Love is the Strongest Player

This is a classic that many people have watched. I used to watch this movie a lot with teammates and even on road trips. However, the purpose of this movie can relate to a lot of female basketball players. We see the persistence and stress the main character goes through. She is her own persona. All about being a ballplayer and definition of beauty is defined by her performance. That is what makes her truly happy. However, the clashing she has with her mother showcases an internal issue with the main character. This same issue evolves throughout the story. She struggles with love. The love for herself, the love she denies, and the sacrifices she makes for the love she wants.

The story shows more than just being a basketball player. Love will always take the lead, whether in friendship or relationship. It's the secret weapon to our happiness. This is her journey and it's worth watching.

4. Believe in Me (2006)

Story Reflection Topic: Sexism in Women's Basketball

A great story that showcases the challenge of a male coach being switched over to coach a women's basketball team. Taking place during the early 1960s in Louisiana, women's teams were not qualified or good enough to be considered a "sport". Even more so, it was also frowned upon to have a men's coach to be the leader of a women's group as well. Society believed women could not be coached by men because women were looked at as "gentle and fragile". That men were too rough for this position. However, this coach decided to fight the system and coached the girls the same way he would boys, but with empathy and courage.

5. Basketball Diaries (1995)

Story Reflection Topic: How Drug Addiction will Destroy your Life

This movie is very dark and shows a lot of raw visuals of how much damage a basketball player could do to themselves. It was probably the most realistic film I've seen yet, as well as disturbing. If you don't want to see the truth of what drug culture can do to athletes, mentally and physically, this isn't the movie for you. However, there is a book version of this that you could read. I recommend it for those that can't handle movies like this. Overall, it is a story that I believe everyone could learn from and feel as well. The struggles of a talented boy and how his decisions turn for the worst. What he chooses to do, who he chooses to spend time with, and where he goes with his time. Those three things should always be a reminder because it will either make you into something greater or destroy from the inside out.