Basketball fans and movie buffs, the moment we’ve all been eagerly awaiting is here. Universal Pictures has just released the official trailer for “Shooting Stars,” an inspiring film adaptation of the origin story of basketball icon, LeBron James.
Based on the book co-authored by LeBron James and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Buzz Bissinger of “Friday Night Lights” fame, “Shooting Stars” offers a deep dive into the journey of LeBron James and his childhood friends. Known as the “Fab Four,” their dedication to basketball led them to become the top-ranking high school team in the country and set the stage for James’ legendary career as a four-time NBA Champion, two-time Olympic Gold Medalist, and the NBA’s all-time leading scorer.
Set in the 1990s, the film introduces us to a young LeBron James, portrayed by Marquis “Mookie” Cook in his screen debut, alongside his three closest friends – Lil Dru (Caleb McLaughlin, Stranger Things), Willie McGee (Avery S. Wills, Jr., Swagger), and Sian Cotton (Khalil Everage, Cobra Kai). Their coach Dru Joyce, played by Wood Harris of the Creed franchise, encourages their deep-rooted bond that extends far beyond the basketball court.
When their high school basketball coach threatens to separate the Fab Four, they make the bold decision to switch schools to keep their team together, triggering a wave of controversy within their community. Joining a predominantly white Catholic school, they meet a former college coach seeking redemption, portrayed by Dermot Mulroney (August: Osage County). Alongside former rival and new teammate Romeo Travis (newcomer Sterling “Scoot” Henderson), they face battles on and off the court in their pursuit to become national champs, reminding us that the essence of the game is the people playing beside you.
“Shooting Stars” is helmed by Emmy nominee Chris Robinson (Beats, Grown-ish), with a screenplay by Frank E. Flowers (Metro Manila) and Tony Rettenmaier (Space Jam: A New Legacy) & Juel Taylor (Creed II). The movie is produced by an esteemed team that includes Academy Award® nominee Rachel Winter p.g.a. (Dallas Buyers Club), Spencer Beighley p.g.a. (executive producer Hustle), LeBron James, Maverick Carter (Space Jam: A New Legacy), Jamal Henderson (Executive Producer, The Shop), and Academy Award® nominee and Emmy winner Terence Winter (Boardwalk Empire). The executive production is led by Gretel Twombly.
With a star-studded cast including Wood Harris, Marquis “Mookie” Cook, Caleb McLaughlin, Natalie Paul, Algee Smith, Dermot Mulroney, Khalil Everage, Sterling “Scoot” Henderson, Katlyn Nichol, and Avery S. Wills, Jr., “Shooting Stars” promises to be the next big hit in the drama genre.
The highly anticipated trailer is available for viewing now. Don’t miss out on this first look at the film that honors one of basketball’s greatest legends and his incredible journey to success.
And don’t forget – “Shooting Stars” premieres June 2 on Peacock. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more updates about this inspiring film.
