Top 20 Basketball Movies You Need to Watch

20. Chang Can Dunk (2023)

This heartfelt sports drama follows the journey of a high school student, Chang, who sets out to prove his worth by attempting to dunk in front of his peers. The film’s emotional depth and coming-of-age storyline strike a perfect balance between humor, teenage angst, and the pursuit of self-confidence. As Chang grapples with his relationships and the challenges of high school, viewers are treated to a mix of high-flying basketball action and introspective moments. Directed by Jingyi Shao, this movie features impressive performances from newcomers, such as Bloom Li, who brings Chang's dreams to life. With a fresh perspective on the basketball genre, Chang Can Dunk combines the energy of high school hoops with an inspiring narrative about personal growth and belief in oneself. | © Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

19. Rez Ball (2024)

Set against the backdrop of a Native American reservation, Rez Ball tells the story of a high school basketball team striving to break barriers and make their mark on the world. The film delves into the importance of community, tradition, and overcoming adversity, all while showcasing the raw, fast-paced action on the court. Through the eyes of its young athletes, the film highlights the challenges faced by Indigenous communities, both on and off the court, as they fight to create a legacy. With standout performances from the ensemble cast, including notable appearances by Devery Jacobs and other rising stars, Rez Ball is a stirring and thought-provoking exploration of sports, identity, and resilience. | © Netflix

18. The Way Back (2020)

Ben Affleck delivers a powerful performance in The Way Back, a film that explores the journey of a former high school basketball star turned alcoholic, who is given a second chance to coach a struggling team. As Jack Cunningham, Affleck captures the complexity of a man haunted by his past and searching for redemption. The film takes a deep dive into themes of loss, addiction, and the healing power of sports. It’s not just about basketball; it’s about a man’s battle to reclaim his life and self-worth. The gripping on-screen dynamics between Affleck and the young cast reflect the struggle of turning personal failure into collective success. The Way Back is as much about the coach’s journey as it is about the players who look to him for guidance and hope. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

17. Above the Rim (1994)

The streets of Harlem set the stage for Above the Rim, a gritty film that portrays the struggle between ambition and the pull of street life. Kyle Lee Watson, a talented young basketball player, finds himself torn between his love for the game and the tempting, dangerous path that could derail his future. With Tupac Shakur’s iconic performance as the antagonist, Birdie, the film explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the complexities of growing up in an environment that doesn’t always offer easy choices. Above the Rim speaks to anyone caught between dreams and reality, making it a cult classic that resonates with generations of basketball fans and those grappling with life's difficult decisions. | © New Line Cinema

16. High Flying Bird (2019)

In High Flying Bird, the focus shifts from the action on the court to the power struggles off it. This cerebral sports film, directed by Steven Soderbergh, explores the complexities of the NBA during a labor strike, as sports agent Ray Burke (André Holland) works behind the scenes to shake up the industry. The movie takes an unconventional approach by showcasing the business side of basketball, blending sharp dialogue with a compelling plot about autonomy and control. With performances from Zazie Beetz and Melvin Gregg, the film’s clever twists and realistic portrayal of the industry make it a unique and intellectually stimulating sports drama. It’s a fresh perspective for basketball fans who want more than just game-time action. | © Netflix

15. Glory Road (2006)

Based on a true story, Glory Road chronicles the journey of coach Don Haskins, who in 1966 led the Texas Western College basketball team to victory in the NCAA championship with an all-Black starting lineup. The film dives deep into the racial tensions of the time, illustrating the courage it took to challenge the status quo and break barriers in collegiate basketball. Starring Josh Lucas as Haskins, the movie beautifully showcases the intersection of sports and social change, making it not just an inspiring tale of triumph on the court but also a significant cultural milestone. With standout performances and a powerful message about equality and perseverance, Glory Road remains one of the most impactful basketball movies ever made. | © Walt Disney Pictures

14. Finding Forrester (2000)

While Finding Forrester isn't strictly about basketball, the sport plays a pivotal role in the journey of its main character, Jamal Wallace, portrayed by Rob Brown. The film beautifully blends basketball with themes of mentorship and self-discovery as Jamal, a talented player and aspiring writer, forms an unlikely bond with the reclusive author William Forrester (Sean Connery). The dynamic between Jamal's love for the game and his intellectual growth creates a unique narrative that feels both personal and universal. As Jamal navigates the challenges of his academic life, basketball serves as a powerful backdrop to his transformation. Finding Forrester stands as a testament to the importance of mentorship, ambition, and finding one's voice in a world full of obstacles. | © Columbia Pictures

13. Cornbread, Earl, and Me (1975)

In Cornbread, Earl, and Me, basketball serves as a lens through which the characters navigate the hardships of life in an urban neighborhood. The film follows young Winfield, a boy who idolizes the local basketball star Cornbread, until tragedy strikes, turning his world upside down. The film is a compelling exploration of friendship, loss, and coming of age, with basketball acting as a crucial aspect of both the narrative and the emotional undercurrent. The heartfelt performances, especially by actor Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs as Earl, highlight the impact of loss and the power of memories. Cornbread, Earl, and Me is a touching and thought-provoking film that remains an essential piece of 1970s cinema, showcasing how the game of basketball can reflect the challenges faced by African American communities. | © American International Pictures

12. Space Jam (1996)

A childhood favorite for many, Space Jam is where basketball meets animation in an unforgettable crossover between NBA superstar Michael Jordan and the beloved Looney Tunes characters. The movie follows Jordan as he helps Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and the gang save their world from the evil aliens, all while showcasing his legendary basketball skills. The film blends live-action and animation, creating a surreal yet highly entertaining experience. With its vibrant visuals and family-friendly humor, Space Jam has remained a pop culture phenomenon, beloved by fans both young and old. Michael Jordan's charismatic performance, alongside the hilarious antics of the animated characters, ensures the film's place as a cult classic. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

11. Hustle (2022)

Hustle brings basketball’s raw intensity and heart to the forefront with Adam Sandler in a dramatic role that showcases his range as an actor. The film centers on a down-on-his-luck basketball scout, who discovers a hidden gem in a streetball player, played by the talented Juancho Hernangómez. As the scout fights to get the young player to the NBA, the movie highlights the often-overlooked grind of aspiring athletes trying to break into the big leagues. Sandler’s performance is nuanced and sincere, creating an emotionally charged narrative about perseverance and second chances. With powerful basketball sequences and an underdog story at its core, Hustle combines the high-energy world of professional basketball with a heartfelt and inspiring tale of mentorship and ambition. | © Netflix

10. Air (2023)

Air takes viewers behind the scenes of one of the most iconic partnerships in sports history: the creation of Michael Jordan's Air Jordan brand with Nike. The film focuses on the pivotal moments in the 1980s when Nike was struggling to break into the basketball shoe market, and how visionary executives, including Sonny Vaccaro (Matt Damon), worked tirelessly to sign Jordan. The movie is an engaging, real-life business drama that shows how a gamble turned into an empire. With strong performances from Damon, Ben Affleck, and Viola Davis, Air isn’t just about basketball; it’s about the power of vision, risk-taking, and the intersection of sports and commerce. The film paints a vivid picture of how Jordan’s legacy shaped not only the game of basketball but also sneaker culture. | © Amazon Studios

9. He Got Game (1998)

Spike Lee’s He Got Game explores the complex relationship between a father and his son amidst the high-pressure world of college basketball recruitment. Denzel Washington stars as Jake Shuttlesworth, a man recently released from prison, who is tasked with convincing his son, Jesus (Ray Allen, in his film debut), to attend one of the top universities that have offered him a scholarship. The film digs deep into themes of family, ambition, and the moral dilemmas faced by athletes in the spotlight. Lee’s trademark style weaves through the narrative, offering a unique lens on race, identity, and the system of college recruitment. With Washington’s intense performance and Allen’s natural charisma on the court, He Got Game is both an emotional drama and a timely exploration of the pressures facing young athletes. | © Universal Pictures

8. Coach Carter (2005)

Based on the true story of a high school basketball coach who prioritizes academics over sports, Coach Carter stars Samuel L. Jackson as the no-nonsense Coach Ken Carter. Carter’s controversial decision to bench his undefeated team until they meet academic standards sparks a powerful journey of growth, discipline, and the realization that success on the court doesn’t mean much without success in life. Jackson’s commanding performance anchors the film, which resonates with audiences for its inspiring message about character, hard work, and responsibility. The film is a compelling exploration of leadership and the powerful impact of a mentor who cares not just about wins but about the future of his players. Coach Carter stands as a beacon of how sports can shape lives beyond the game. | © Paramount Pictures

7. The Basketball Diaries (1995)

Based on the autobiographical book by Jim Carroll, The Basketball Diaries is a raw and gritty look into the life of a promising high school basketball player who spirals into a world of drugs and addiction. Leonardo DiCaprio gives an intense performance as Jim, capturing the pain and struggle of a young man losing his way. The film explores the dangerous intersection between athletic ambition and the lure of substance abuse, offering a haunting portrayal of self-destruction. Set against the backdrop of the 1960s New York City, The Basketball Diaries is not just a sports movie – it’s a sobering tale about the vulnerability of youth and the complexities of growing up in an environment full of temptation and hardship. | © Artisan Entertainment

6. White Men Can’t Jump (1992)

White Men Can’t Jump is a clever and humorous look at the world of street basketball, where two players – one white, one black – team up for a series of hustles on the courts of Los Angeles. Woody Harrelson and Wesley Snipes deliver standout performances as Billy and Sidney, contrasting characters who navigate the gritty underworld of streetball. The film combines comedy, basketball action, and an insightful look into race relations, friendship, and the lengths people will go for success. With its iconic one-liners and undeniable chemistry between Harrelson and Snipes, White Men Can’t Jump has become a classic that resonates with audiences for its unique portrayal of both the competitive nature of basketball and the dynamics of personal relationships. | © 20th Century Fox

5. Hoop Dreams (1994)

One of the most powerful documentaries of all time, Hoop Dreams offers a raw, unfiltered look at the lives of two Chicago teenagers, William Gates and Arthur Agee, whose basketball dreams take them on a journey full of struggle, hope, and heartache. The film captures their pursuit of a college scholarship, shedding light on the harsh realities of inner-city life, systemic challenges, and the powerful influence of sports as both an escape and a potential ticket to a better life. Over the course of the film, the young athletes are forced to confront not just their dreams but also the pressures and sacrifices that come with them. As much about race, class, and family as it is about basketball, Hoop Dreams is a cinematic masterpiece that transcends the world of sports. | © Fine Line Features

4. Love & Basketball (2000)

Set against the backdrop of the sport, Love & Basketball weaves together the themes of ambition, love, and personal growth. Monica (Sanaa Lathan) and Quincy (Omar Epps) have been childhood friends, but their relationship is tested as they both pursue their dreams of professional basketball. The film beautifully captures the tension between the two, as they struggle to balance their love for each other with the intense demands of their athletic aspirations. With its powerful portrayal of both the male and female experience in sports, Love & Basketball remains a beloved classic for those who understand the sacrifices required to excel at the game and in life. | © New Line Cinema

3. The Heart of the Game (2005)

In The Heart of the Game, the focus is not only on basketball but also on the resilience of young women fighting for respect and recognition in sports. This documentary follows the Roosevelt High School girls' basketball team in Seattle as they overcome adversity to reach the pinnacle of their sport. Coach Bill Resler's commitment to his players, especially Darnellia Russell, brings out their true potential, making it clear that success in sports is about more than just skill – it's about empowerment and unity. With its compelling story of overcoming the odds, The Heart of the Game highlights the importance of sports in breaking barriers for women in athletics. | © Universal Pictures

2. Hoosiers (1986)

Small-town Indiana provides the setting for one of the greatest underdog stories in sports cinema. In Hoosiers, coach Norman Dale (Gene Hackman) takes a group of misfit players and leads them to an improbable state championship, all while dealing with his troubled past and skepticism from the community. The film’s emotional depth and inspiring storyline make it more than just a sports movie – it’s a celebration of perseverance, teamwork, and belief in oneself. The underdog narrative resonates with audiences everywhere, making Hoosiers a timeless classic about how sports can unite and uplift even the most unlikely individuals. | © MGM

1. The First Slam Dunk (2022)

The First Slam Dunk is an electrifying animated film that brings the beloved manga series Slam Dunk to life in a new and dynamic way. The story follows Hanamichi Sakuragi, a high school student who starts as an outsider to basketball but eventually becomes the star player. As he learns the true meaning of teamwork and discipline, the film’s stunning animation and high-energy action sequences perfectly capture the emotion and intensity of the sport. Directed by Takehiko Inoue, the film is a visually striking tribute to the game, offering not just basketball action but also an inspiring story about self-improvement and the power of perseverance. The First Slam Dunk is an unforgettable journey for both long-time fans of the series and newcomers alike. | © Toei Animation