Final Shot: The Hank Gathers Story

Final Shot: The Hank Gathers Story is a 1992 movie featuring Victor Love as the basketball superstar Hank Gathers. The movie is based on the true story of Gathers, who played for Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles in the late 1980s. Gathers was known for his exceptional talent on the basketball court, but his life was tragically cut short when he collapsed and died during a game in March 1990.

The movie is a biographical drama that tells the story of Gathers' life and career. It begins with Gathers as a young boy growing up in Philadelphia, where he is introduced to basketball by his older brother Derrick, who also becomes his mentor and coach. The movie follows Gathers as he becomes a high school basketball star and earns a scholarship to play at USC.

However, Gathers' dreams of playing at USC are short-lived when he is forced to transfer to Loyola Marymount after his freshman year due to academic issues. Despite this setback, Gathers finds success at Loyola Marymount and becomes a key player on the team.

One of the key themes of the movie is Gathers' battle with an irregular heartbeat, which puts his basketball career in jeopardy. The movie shows the challenges Gathers faced as he tried to manage his medical condition while playing at a high level. Despite this, Gathers remains determined to play and becomes a dominant force on the court.

Along the way, Gathers forms a close friendship with fellow Loyola Marymount player Bo Kimble, played by Duane Davis. The two players bond over their shared passion for basketball and develop a deep respect for each other. Davis delivers a strong performance as Kimble, who serves as a supportive friend to Gathers throughout the movie.

As Gathers' basketball career continues to flourish, tragedy strikes when he collapses during a game against UC Santa Barbara in March 1990. The movie shows the immediate aftermath of Gathers' collapse, as his teammates and coaches struggle to come to terms with what has happened. The scene is heartbreaking and moving, and is sure to leave even the most hardened viewer with tears in their eyes.

Despite the tragic ending to Gathers' life, Final Shot: The Hank Gathers Story is ultimately an uplifting movie that celebrates Gathers' remarkable talent and his inspiring spirit. The movie is well-acted, with strong performances from Love, Davis, and George Kennedy, who plays Loyola Marymount coach Paul Westhead.

Overall, Final Shot: The Hank Gathers Story is a powerful movie that captures the spirit of one of basketball's most talented and inspiring players. It is a must-see for anyone who loves basketball or who appreciates a moving and inspiring true story.