Basketball carries a specific type of magic: the roar of the crowd, the squeak of sneakers, and that adrenaline-filled split second when the ball hangs in the air before going through the net. It is more than a sport; it is heart, hustle, and hope all rolled into one. That is why basketball stories hit so hard on screen. They remind people of resilience, on-and-off-the-court bonds, and chasing dreams even when the odds seem impossible. Hence, anyone looking to experience that rush from their living room couch should make Netflix their go-to destination.

These nine basketball movies streaming on the platform are sure to score big with every viewer in 2025.

Hustle (2022)

Adam Sandler delivers one of his most grounded performances in Hustle, playing Stanley Sugerman, a struggling NBA scout who discovers an unpolished but gifted player in Spain, Bo Cruz, played by Juancho Hernangómez. Determined to prove his find is the next big thing, Stanley risks everything to bring him to the NBA.

Directed by Jeremiah Zagar, the film also features Queen Latifah, Ben Foster, and Robert Duvall, along with cameos from several NBA stars. Hustle drew widespread praise for Adam Sandler’s emotionally rich effort.

High Flying Bird (2019)

High Flying Bird follows sports agent Ray Burke (André Holland) as he crafts a bold plan to save the locked-out agency where he is employed. He uses social media and player influence to reshape the game of basketball in a sharp story about ambition. 

Directed by Steven Soderbergh and shot entirely on an iPhone, the film co-stars Zazie Beetz, Kyle MacLachlan, and more. It earned strong audience acclaim for testing the limits of technology in filmmaking and its commentary on professional sports.

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The following film explores how young talents risk losing the place they deserve in the sports world due to forces that should have no place in the game.

Amateur (2018)

Amateur explores the intense world of high school recruitment through the story of Terron Forte, a 14-year-old basketball prodigy who faces corruption and internal politics every step of his way. His journey highlights the challenges that come before stardom. Michael Rainey Jr. leads the title.

Written and directed by Ryan Koo, the film includes Sharon Leal and Brian White in supporting roles. 

The Redeem Team (2022)

The Redeem Team chronicles Team USA’s comeback after their 2004 Olympic disappointment, spotlighting Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, and Dwyane Wade as they unite under Coach Mike Krzyzewski for redemption at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. The documentary captures both their competitive fire and personal growth.

Directed by Jon Weinbach, it features never-before-seen footage and heartfelt reflections of the players involved. The film received glowing reviews for depicting themes of national pride and patriotism.

Rez Ball (2024)

Set in New Mexico, Rez Ball follows a Native American high school basketball team chasing a state championship after losing their star player. It is a heartfelt story of resilience and the identity of the Indigenous culture.

Directed by Sydney Freeland and produced by LeBron James among others, it stars Kauchani Bratt, Jessica Matten and more. Praised for authentic representation, Rez Ball became one of Netflix’s standout sports dramas of 2024.

Tony Parker: The Final Shot (2021)

This documentary traces the career of French NBA legend Tony Parker, from his beginnings in France to his championship years with the San Antonio Spurs. It offers an inspiring look at his discipline, legacy, and global influence.

Directed by Florent Bodin, it features appearances by Kobe Bryant, Gregg Popovich, and Tim Duncan, offering rare insights into Tony Parker’s mindset and journey.

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A sports drama told through anime? The next film not only makes it work but turns it into a storytelling triumph.

Kuroko’s Basketball: Last Game (2017)

In this anime film, Tetsuya Kuroko and Taiga Kagami reunite with the Generation of Miracles, to take on a streetball team from the United States. Packed with vibrant animation and emotional stakes, it delivers a thrilling finale to the beloved Kuruko’s Basketball franchise.

Directed by Shunsuke Tada, it features voice performances by Kenshō Ono and Yūki Ono. 

The Last Dance (2020)

This docuseries follows Michael Jordan’s final season with the Chicago Bulls, offering an unfiltered look at the man who defined 1990s basketball. With rare footage and candid interviews, it is a must-watch for both Jordan and basketball admirers.

Directed by Jason Hehir and featuring Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, Phil Jackson, and more, The Last Dance won Outstanding Documentary Emmy in 2020. 

Untold: Malice at the Palace (2021)

This film is the first offering in the nine-part Untold documentary series. It revisits the infamous 2004 brawl between NBA players and fans during the Indiana Pacers and Detroit Pistons game at The Palace of Auburn Hills. 

Through player interviews, it revisits that chaotic night and the media backlash that followed. 

Basketball movies have long left a lasting mark on sports culture, capturing the raw emotion, energy, and determination that drive the sport. They turn on-court action into stories of grit and glory, showing how the sport mirrors real life, filled with struggle, teamwork, and triumph. From local games to global ones, these films have shaped how audiences connect with basketball, influencing everything from viewers’ passion to how athletes are seen beyond the scoreboard.

Basketball on screen continues to inspire, reminding audiences why the game holds such timeless appeal. These stories, whether rooted in real events or pure fiction, celebrate the sport’s intensity. Meanwhile, Netflix does not just spotlight basketball exclusively; its expansive sports catalog spans everything from FIFA to speeding cars, making it a hub for every kind of sports lover. With these titles, the platform proves that great storytelling can be as powerful as any buzzer-beater moment.

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Which of the basketball movies on the list will you watch first? Let us know in the comments.