30 Best Basketball Movies of All Time, Ranked
Basketball movies capture the heart of the game, blending high-energy action with stories of triumph, struggle, and passion. From gritty streetball tales to inspiring underdog victories, these films resonate with anyone who loves the sport or a good story.
I’ve put together a ranked list of the 30 best basketball movies, pulling from classics and hidden gems alike. Each one brings something unique, whether it’s drama, comedy, or a deep dive into the culture of the game.
30. The Fish That Saved Pittsburgh (1979)
This quirky comedy follows a struggling basketball team that turns to astrology to change their luck. With a mix of humor and heart, it’s a lighthearted take on teamwork.
The film stars Julius Erving as a player who helps the team find their groove. It’s a fun, nostalgic ride for fans of 70s hoops culture.
29. Teen Wolf (1985)
Michael J. Fox shines as a high schooler who discovers he’s a werewolf, boosting his basketball skills overnight. It’s a wild premise that leans into 80s charm.
The movie mixes comedy with coming-of-age themes, showing how newfound talent can go to a young player’s head. It’s a fun watch for a rainy day.
28. Celtic Pride (1996)
Two diehard Celtics fans, played by Dan Aykroyd and Daniel Stern, kidnap an opposing team’s star to secure a championship. It’s a wacky comedy with Boston spirit.
While not a deep dive into basketball, the film captures the intensity of fandom. Christopher McDonald’s performance as a cocky coach adds to the laughs.
27. The Air Up There (1994)
Kevin Bacon plays a coach scouting talent in Africa, finding a promising player in a remote village. It’s a feel-good story about chasing dreams across cultures.
The movie blends humor with heartfelt moments, showing how basketball can bridge divides. Bacon’s energy keeps it engaging, despite some clichés.
26. Like Mike (2002)
A young orphan, played by Lil’ Bow Wow, finds magical sneakers that give him NBA-level skills. It’s a kid-friendly fantasy packed with NBA cameos.
The story is pure wish-fulfillment, perfect for younger viewers. It’s light on realism but heavy on charm and heartwarming moments.
25. Fast Break (1979)
Gabe Kaplan stars as a deli worker turned college coach, leading a ragtag team to victory. This under-the-radar comedy is full of scrappy underdog spirit.
With cameos from basketball legends like Bernard King, it’s a love letter to the game’s grind. The humor lands well for fans of classic sports flicks.
24. BASEketball (1998)
Trey Parker and Matt Stone invent a bizarre basketball-baseball hybrid in this absurd comedy. It’s less about hoops and more about pure silliness.
The film leans on crude humor and sports satire, with cameos from stars like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. It’s a cult favorite for a reason.
23. Eddie (1996)
Whoopi Goldberg takes over as coach of the New York Knicks in this upbeat comedy. Her passion for the game turns a losing team around.
It’s a feel-good story about leadership and fandom. Goldberg’s charisma carries the film, making it a solid pick for a fun night in.
22. O (2001)
This modern take on Shakespeare’s Othello uses high school basketball as its backdrop. Mekhi Phifer plays a star player caught in a web of jealousy and betrayal.
The film tackles heavy themes like race and ambition, blending them with intense court scenes. It’s a bold drama that hits hard.
21. The 6th Man (1997)
Marlon Wayans stars in this supernatural comedy about a basketball player helped by his brother’s ghost. It’s a mix of laughs and heartfelt moments.
The film balances goofy humor with emotional stakes, making it a unique entry. The chemistry between Wayans and Kadeem Hardison sells it.
20. Cornbread, Earl and Me (1975)
This coming-of-age drama follows a young basketball star, played by Jamaal Wilkes, in a tough neighborhood. Laurence Fishburne’s early role adds depth.
The story explores community and loss, with basketball as a backdrop. It’s a raw, emotional look at dreams cut short.
19. Hurricane Season (2009)
Forest Whitaker plays a coach uniting a team after Hurricane Katrina. It’s a true story of resilience and teamwork in the face of tragedy.
The film captures the emotional weight of rebuilding through sport. Whitaker’s performance grounds it, making every win feel earned.
18. Finding Forrester (2000)
Rob Brown plays a gifted student and basketball player mentored by a reclusive writer, played by Sean Connery. The court is a stage for personal growth.
The film weaves hoops with themes of friendship and self-discovery. Connery’s gravitas and Brown’s raw talent make it compelling.
17. Above the Rim (1994)
A high school star, played by Duane Martin, navigates tough choices between his coach and a local drug dealer, played by Tupac Shakur. It’s gritty and real.
The film’s streetball scenes and 90s rap soundtrack give it edge. Shakur’s intense performance steals the show.
16. Semi-Pro (2008)
Will Ferrell plays Jackie Moon, a singer-turned-coach of a failing ABA team. It’s a ridiculous comedy with a stacked cast, including Woody Harrelson.
The film pokes fun at basketball’s lesser-known leagues while delivering big laughs. Ferrell’s over-the-top energy makes it a blast.
15. Air Bud (1997)
A golden retriever becomes a basketball star in this family-friendly classic. It’s absurd but undeniably heartwarming.
The story leans into pure fun, with a dog stealing the show on the court. Perfect for kids and anyone who loves a feel-good tale.
14. Just Wright (2010)
Queen Latifah stars as a physical therapist who falls for an NBA player, played by Common. It’s a charming rom-com with basketball at its heart.
The film blends romance and sports smoothly, with Latifah’s warmth shining through. It’s a cozy pick for a date night.
13. The Basketball Diaries (1995)
Leonardo DiCaprio plays a young basketball player spiraling into addiction. It’s a raw, unflinching drama based on Jim Carroll’s memoir.
The film uses basketball as a fleeting escape from darker struggles. DiCaprio’s intense performance makes it unforgettable.
12. Rebound: The Legend of Earl ‘The Goat’ Manigault (1996)
Don Cheadle stars as Earl Manigault, a streetball legend who battles addiction. It’s a powerful true story of talent and redemption.
The film captures the raw energy of Harlem’s courts. Cheadle’s nuanced performance brings depth to a tragic figure.
11. Blue Chips (1994)
Nick Nolte plays a college coach caught in a recruiting scandal, with Shaquille O’Neal and Penny Hardaway in early roles. It’s a sharp look at sports ethics.
The film’s gritty take on college hoops feels ahead of its time. Nolte’s intensity and real NBA talent elevate it.
10. Sunset Park (1996)
Rhea Perlman coaches a chaotic high school team to success in this underdog story. It’s a scrappy drama with heart and humor.
The film captures the grind of building a team from scratch. Perlman’s tough-love approach makes it a hidden gem.
9. The First Slam Dunk (2022)
This anime follows a high school basketball team chasing a championship. Its stunning animation brings the game to life.
The story dives into teamwork and personal growth, with intense court scenes. It’s a must-watch for anime and hoops fans alike.
8. Glory Road (2006)
Josh Lucas plays Don Haskins, the coach who led an all-Black starting lineup to an NCAA title in 1966. It’s an inspiring true story.
The film tackles racism and teamwork, with thrilling game sequences. Lucas and the young cast bring history to life.
7. High Flying Bird (2019)
Andre Holland plays a sports agent navigating an NBA lockout in this sharp drama. Steven Soderbergh directs with a fast-paced edge.
The film explores the business of basketball, with little court action but plenty of tension. Holland’s performance carries it.
6. Coach Carter (2005)
Samuel L. Jackson stars as Ken Carter, a coach who benches his undefeated team for poor grades. It’s based on a true story of discipline.
The film balances intense basketball scenes with lessons on life. Jackson’s commanding presence makes every moment count.
5. The Way Back (2020)
Ben Affleck plays a former hoops star coaching his old high school team while battling alcoholism. It’s a raw redemption story.
The film blends emotional depth with solid court action. Affleck’s personal connection to the role shines through.
4. White Men Can’t Jump (1992)
Woody Harrelson and Wesley Snipes play streetball hustlers in this sharp comedy. Their chemistry is electric, with trash-talking galore.
The film captures the swagger of pickup games, blending humor and heart. It’s a 90s classic that still holds up.
3. Love & Basketball (2000)
Sanaa Lathan and Omar Epps star as childhood friends turned lovers chasing hoops dreams. It’s a perfect blend of romance and sport.
The film follows their journey from kids to pros, with emotional stakes on and off the court. It’s a timeless favorite.
2. He Got Game (1998)
Denzel Washington plays a father trying to reconnect with his son, a top hoops prospect, in this Spike Lee drama. Ray Allen stars as the son.
The film weaves family tension with basketball’s pressures, set against vibrant New York courts. It’s a powerful, emotional ride.
1. Hoosiers (1986)
Gene Hackman stars as a coach leading a small-town Indiana team to glory. It’s the ultimate underdog story, inspired by a real championship.
The film captures the heart of basketball culture, with gripping games and deep emotion. Hackman and Dennis Hopper shine.
Which basketball movie is your top pick, or did I miss a slam-dunk classic? Drop your thoughts in the comments!