25 Best Basketball Movies and Series to Stream on Netflix Now

For enthusiasts of basketball, some top-tier basketball films can be found on Netflix. The beauty of basketball lies in its thrilling gameplay combined with inspirational stories, which is why numerous basketball movies exist to highlight these motivating aspects of the sport.

These films offer unique perspectives of basketball that you might not have encountered before. If you’re interested in seeing hoops from a fresh angle, be sure to check out the top basketball movies available on Netflix!

These basketball-themed films offer unique perspectives on the game, making them captivating and entertaining to behold. Fortunately, if you’re seeking top-notch basketball movies, you’ll find an excellent selection available for streaming on Netflix.

1. High Flying Bird (2019)

The High Flying Bird stands out as one of the finest basketball movies ever made on Netflix, and what truly sets it apart is its unique filming technique – it was filmed using iPhones rather than typical movie cameras.

This film explores a narrative in which black athletes exhibit greater strength than their white team managers, a dynamic rarely depicted due to the lack of power dynamics between many black athletes and predominantly white management.

The story centers on a sports representative, as he maneuvers through the realm of profit-driven team managers and negotiators from the Players’ Union, striving to discover a mutually beneficial solution to resolve the NBA strike.

2. Last Chance U: Basketball (2021)

If you’re keeping up with high school basketball or sports in general, it’s common knowledge that many athletes are spotted from their very first day of high school play. Typically, these athletes receive scholarship offers even during their junior years.

As a devoted film enthusiast, let me share my thoughts about a compelling series titled “Last Chance U: Basketball.” Unlike a typical movie, it’s an engaging narrative that unfolds over several episodes. It follows the gripping tale of a basketball coach in the vibrant heartland of East Los Angeles, who tirelessly works to help aspiring high school players secure the college scholarships they’ve been yearning for, often seen as their last chance at achieving their dreams.

3. Amateur (2018)

Amateur is interesting because it closely mirrors reality by portraying the journey of an exceptional college athlete as he maneuvers through the less-than-savory underbelly of amateur basketball.

A novice explores the story of a young African-American basketball player navigating high school, who discovered firsthand that sports corruption exists everywhere, particularly in college basketball. It’s common knowledge that the NCAA has stringent regulations for its athletes, which leads to secret deals like these.

4. Coach Carter (2005)

Without a doubt, one highly acclaimed and widely recognized basketball movie available on Netflix is “Coach Carter.” This film, appreciated by many who grew up in the ’90s and early 2000s, has gained its popularity due to its exceptional quality.

Unlike many uplifting and comedic basketball films, Coach Carter tells the true tale of a dedicated high school basketball coach.

In this narrative, Coach Carter returned to his former high school to discover that the basketball team was struggling and barely competitive, due to a lack of organized system. To make matters worse, each player on the team had their own set of personal problems.

While working on resolving issues within the system, Carter also had to restrict the basketball team due to discovering that their academic performance was suffering. Essentially, his role transcends that of merely a coach; he serves as a guide and mentor in life too.

5. The Last Dance (2020)

The Last Dance isn’t a film, but rather a ten-part documentary series. Each episode in this series narrates a unique story about Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls, delving into the origins of MJ’s greatness and the histories of the key players on the 1997-98 Bulls squad.

One compelling reason to watch this basketball content on Netflix is that it holds immense importance within the basketball community, as it features Michael Jordan, widely regarded as one of the greatest players ever. This ten-part documentary series also uncovers a wealth of previously unknown details about his career and impact on the sport.

6. Space Jam (1996)

Discussing Michael Jordan, let’s travel back to 1996 and a beloved basketball film – one that isn’t just famous due to featuring the greatest basketball legend ever, but also because it includes Looney Tunes characters, some of fiction’s most cherished personalities.

As a die-hard film fan, I’d recount my experience with Space Jam like this: Once upon a time, I found myself in the shoes of Michael Jordan, a former hoops legend, who was unexpectedly drafted by none other than Bugs Bunny and his Looney Tunes crew. You see, these beloved characters had landed themselves in quite a pickle – they were challenged to a basketball showdown against an alien squad that threatened their very existence!

Now, it turned out the aliens, called the Monstars, had swiped the talents of some of the world’s top ballers and used this newfound skill to dominate the court. Realizing I was the key to saving these beloved cartoon characters, I teamed up with them to take down the Monstars in a game that would decide their fate and restore peace in the Looney Tunes universe.

7. Basketball or Nothing (2019)

Among the top-notch basketball content available on Netflix, “Basketball or Nothing” stands out due to its unique access into the lives of up-and-coming players. Essentially, their lives revolve around basketball as they strive to break free from their current circumstances. In essence, it’s a choice between basketball and nothing else.

In the film “Basketball or Nothing,” we explore various communities struggling with substance abuse issues and how some of their younger residents find solace in basketball, using it as a means to divert their attention away from their troubles. The documentary offers insights into the thoughts and experiences of the athletes featured, as they strive to claim the state championship title, proving that they can overcome all obstacles.

8. Giants of Africa (2016)

As a passionate film enthusiast, let me share a unique perspective: Giants of Africa isn’t about legendary giants roaming the African continent. In fact, it’s a captivating documentary that sheds light on one of the towering figures in the NBA, highlighting his significant role in connecting Africa and America through the universal language of basketball.

Centering on General Manager Masai Ujiri, who built the Toronto Raptors team that eventually claimed the 2019 NBA championship (prior to this year), Giants of Africa explores his methods for recruiting gifted African players and his efforts to make basketball a viable option for tall, athletic Africans seeking an escape from life’s hardships.

9. Wolves (2016)

In a fresh twist on sports dramas, “Wolves” offers an alternate perspective into the personal life of a basketball player. This movie delves into the role that family plays in shaping and influencing an athlete’s journey, revealing how they can provide support as well as pose challenges to their growth and achievements.

In this film, we trace the journey of an exceptional high school basketball player, who appears to have a guaranteed college scholarship. Yet, there’s a potential hurdle in his way: his family, particularly his father who struggles with alcoholism and a compulsion for gambling.

10. Semi-Pro (2008)

Without a doubt, Semi-Pro stands out as one of the most uproariously funny basketball movies ever made. It’s overflowing with laughter, and I mean that in the best possible way! But don’t be fooled; it’s not all jokes. There are moments when the film gets quite serious about the sport. Yet, it manages to portray basketball in a unique, entertaining light, especially focusing on the struggles of a minor league team in the ABA.

The movie “Semi-Pro” centers around a team owner and player who aim to elevate their team to fourth place in the league, hoping this achievement would earn them a spot among those joining the NBA during the NBA-ABA merger. However, it offers an amusing and humorous perspective on mediocrity within the intensely competitive sport of basketball.

11. My MVP Valentine (2002)

Shifting our focus from the west to the east, we’re drawn by an engaging Taiwanese show that seamlessly blends basketball and romance. Although it might not be everyone’s immediate choice for viewing, “My MVP Valentine” is guaranteed to touch your heart if you take the time to watch it.

The heart of my Minimum Viable Product (MVP) revolves around a prominent high school basketball player who, tragically, causes paralysis to his opponent’s sister prior to their championship showdown on the court. Stricken by guilt over his actions, he forsakes his basketball career to care for the girl he inadvertently harmed. As they navigate this new reality together, they discover a deep and unexpected love.

12. The Carter Effect (2017)

Vince Carter is widely recognized as one of the most innovative basketball players ever due to his groundbreaking approach to slam dunks on the court. Notably, “The Carter Effect” is a film that explores how Carter significantly shifted Canada’s viewpoint towards basketball, making it a more prominent sport in the country before his rise to fame.

This film delves into how Vince Carter helped increase basketball’s popularity in Canada, following his selection by the Toronto Raptors in the late 90s. His influence on younger generations within the country played a significant role in the expansion of basketball in Canada, which is why Canada now ranks second among nations with the most active NBA players.

13. Juwanna Man (2002)

If you’re looking for a hilarious basketball film that adds a humorous twist to the sport, make sure to check out Juwanna Man first. Although its humor may not align with modern sensibilities, it could still provide you with plenty of chuckles.

As a movie critic, I’d say: “In the world of basketball, a player found himself on the wrong side of the rules, banished from his league. Determined to keep playing at the professional level, he donned female attire and dared to join the women’s league. The result? A rip-roaring comedy that had me in stitches! Despite its absurd premise, it manages to deliver laughs aplenty.

14. #Rucker50 (2016)

Individuals raised in New York, or those deeply immersed in basketball culture, would likely recognize Rucker Park – a globally renowned outdoor basketball court, unrivaled in popularity. Notably, Rucker Park has served as a training ground for many of the world’s top basketball talents today.

The article titled “#Rucker50” delves into the rich heritage and social context tied to Rucker Park, as well as the impact that the Rucker Tournament had on the development and popularity of basketball. Notably, it discusses how this competition has inspired and shaped the careers of aspiring athletes who aim to turn their love for basketball into a livelihood.

15. Untold: Malice at the Palace (2021)

One significant altercation that stands out in NBA history is known as the Malice at the Palace, an incident that unfolded during a matchup between the Indiana Pacers and the Detroit Pistons in Detroit. While many are familiar with the general events, fewer people understand the details, particularly from the players’ perspectives.

Unveiled: The Palace Brawl: A Revelation – This documentary delves into various viewpoints and stories from the athletes and staff who were part of the infamous Palace Brawl in Detroit. It offers an insight into the humanity behind these basketball players, demonstrating that not everything was solely their responsibility.

16. Q Ball (2019)

Q Ball, a production by basketball legend Kevin Durant, offers a unique viewpoint on basketball, seen from behind bars where inmates discover the liberation that comes with playing their beloved sport.

Watching Q Ball offers a unique viewpoint on life because it shows you the struggles faced by prison inmates on a daily basis. Yet, despite these challenges, the film demonstrates how basketball provides a sense of freedom for them, being one of the rare activities permitted within prison.

17. Marvel & ESPN Films Present 1 of 1: Genesis (2014)

You wouldn’t expect to find Marvel and ESPN working together frequently, but given that they share the same parent company, their collaboration makes perfect sense.

Marvel and ESPN Films present “Genesis”: a fascinating exploration that draws parallels between extraordinary athletes and their potential Marvel superhero equivalents. The comparison becomes plausible when considering the seemingly superhuman abilities demonstrated by these world-class athletes.

18. One in a Billion (2016)

It might surprise you that India’s vast population isn’t particularly fond of basketball as its most popular sport. In contrast to what you might expect, you won’t find many Indian athletes making waves in the NBA, even up to this day.

This captivating documentary titled “One in a Billion” delves into the life of Satnam Singh Bhumara, an individual who persevered to become the first basketball player from India ever drafted into the NBA. It’s hard to believe that a nation as populous as India hasn’t had a player in the NBA before, but this documentary promises to shed light on this intriguing fact.

19. Iverson (2014)

Allen Iverson, renowned as one of the greatest basketball legends, is celebrated for both his unique style of play and captivating personality. He significantly transformed the mindset of the sport while consistently demonstrating immense passion, ultimately earning the title of the most outstanding small-statured player in basketball history.

The documentary titled “Iverson” delves into the life of Allen Iverson, from his time in the NBA up until now. If you’re a basketball enthusiast or appreciate the impact Iverson had on redefining the sport, it’s definitely worth watching.

20. Tony Parker: The Final Shot (2021)

Transitioning from one basketball legend to another, we delve into the narrative of Tony Parker: The Final Shot, which focuses on the life story of the four-time champion and a San Antonio Spurs legend, Tony Parker himself.

This documentary offers an insightful exploration into the life of Tony Parker, often overshadowed yet regarded as one of the most successful players in NBA history. Regardless of your allegiance to the San Antonio Spurs, this film is worth watching.

21. The Paybook: Doc Rivers (2020)

The Playbook is a collection of shows focusing on exceptional minds across various sports, where coaches share insights into their methods and the creative strategies they employ to secure victories.

In Episode 1 of The Playbook, the focus is on Doc Rivers, the present coach of the Philadelphia 76ers, who played a crucial role in helping the Boston Celtics secure their 17th championship victory. This episode offers an intriguing glimpse into the thoughts and strategies of one of the world’s top-tier coaches.

22. Kuroko’s Basketball (2012)

The initial anime series on our list is titled Kuroko’s Basketball. Since it’s an animated production, it’s essential to adjust your expectations regarding realism. However, it offers an interesting perspective on the level of dedication and passion that the Japanese demonstrate towards basketball.

In this show, we follow Kuroko, an outstanding high school basketball player who used to be the sixth man on an incredible middle school team. Now that he’s part of a new team altogether, he aims to challenge his old teammates, a group formerly known as the “Miracle Generation.

23. Meeting the Giant (2014)

Titled “Meeting the Giant,” this film offers an intriguing exploration of basketball in Asia. What sets it apart on Netflix is its unique portrayal of the challenges and experiences faced by basketball players across Asia, providing a fresh perspective on the sport.

This film centers around the challenges of import regulations in Singapore, particularly for a group of Chinese basketball players navigating their professional lives. You’ll find it captivating as it shuns the use of elaborate visual effects.

24. Kung Fu Dunk (2008)

If your interest lies in both basketball and its fusion with other sports or martial arts, then “Kung Fu Dunk” might catch your eye. While it’s not the top-notch film, it promises an engaging viewing experience.

The narrative centers on an exceptionally talented Kung Fu practitioner with uncanny ability to anticipate his adversaries’ actions. Catching the attention of a questionable entrepreneur, this prodigy eventually transforms into a renowned basketball player. Unfortunately, due to his exceptional martial arts skills, he is exploited throughout his career.

25. Ahiru No Sora (2019)

The second and concluding animated series on our list is titled “Ahiru No Sora.” Unlike “Kuroko’s Basketball,” it is not as fantastical, but it retains some common anime elements. However, the narrative in this show deviates significantly from the norm.

This anime revolves around the tale of Sora, a character who may be petite but remains passionate about the game despite his limited height. Standing at barely five feet tall, Sora endeavors to rejuvenate his high school’s basketball team and inspire his fellow players to reignite their passion for basketball once more.

2025-05-18 16:46