Fathers of the Sport

Fathers of the Sport is a 2008 documentary film profiling the life stories of three famous African American basketball players - Wilt Chamberlain, Julius Erving, and Jackie Jackson. The film is directed by Xavier Mitchell and produced by Bill Duke and D. Channsin Berry.

The documentary highlights the tremendous impact that each of these athletes had on the sport of basketball, and on American society as a whole, during their respective careers. The story begins with Wilt Chamberlain, one of the greatest players in NBA history, who dominated the game during the 1960s with his athleticism and scoring ability. The film details his upbringing in a predominantly white neighborhood in Philadelphia, and the racial discrimination he faced as a black athlete during a tumultuous time in America's civil rights movement.

Next, the film turns its attention to Julius Erving, who played for the Philadelphia 76ers in the 1970s and 1980s. "Dr. J," as he was affectionately known, revolutionized the game with his acrobatic dunks and flashy play style. The documentary explores his humble beginnings in Long Island, where he honed his skills on local playgrounds, and the impact he had on the sport's evolution as a more athletic, up-tempo game.

Finally, the film covers the life of Jackie Jackson, a lesser-known player who made a name for himself in the 1950s as an all-star guard for the Harlem Globetrotters. Jackson's story is unique in that it focuses not only on his basketball career, but also on his experiences as a jazz musician and civil rights activist. The documentary details his struggles to overcome racial stereotypes and discrimination both on and off the court, while also showcasing his incredible musical talent and commitment to social justice causes.

Throughout the film, viewers are treated to exclusive interviews with these basketball legends, as well as insights from their contemporaries, including fellow NBA players, coaches, and broadcasters. The documentary also features vintage footage of some of the most iconic moments in the history of basketball, including Chamberlain's record-setting 100-point game and Erving's famous "rock the baby" dunk.

Overall, Fathers of the Sport serves as a powerful tribute to the pioneering accomplishments of these three African American basketball players, showcasing both their immense talent on the court and their inspiring perseverance off of it. It is a must-see film for basketball fans and anyone interested in the role of race and social justice in American sports history.