Rez Ball is Inspiring and Exciting

A good player makes himself better, but a great player makes others better.  We have seen this time and time again within the NBA with legendary players like Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan and Lebron James (who is Executive Producer on this film). However when the inspirational warrior of the team no longer ceases to exist, does the inspiration come from within or from another source unknown or unseen?

Based on a remarkable true story and set in the Navajo Nation, Rez Ball follows one unforgettable season in the lives of the Chuska Warriors boys’ basketball team.

Local hero Nataanii Jackson (Kusem Goodwind)and his team are searching for a way out of their current losing streak, which frustrated community members blame on Coach Hobbs (Jessica Matten), herself a former basketball star. Struggling with the tragic deaths of his mother, sister and a devastating turn of events resulting in his passing,  Nataanii is left even more bereft and rudderless. The heir apparent to lead the team is Nataanii’s best friend, Jimmy Holiday (Kauchani Bratt), whose own family and financial struggles threaten to derail his hoop dreams.

Inspired by their language and culture, they develop a uniquely Navajo twist to playing basketball — which they dub “Rez Ball” — leading to an unexpected win streak that keeps hope alive in their hopes of competing for the state championships.

In her third feature film, Sydney Freeland explores complex and sensitive topics with grace drawing impressive performances, including a grounded and radiant Bratt in his film debut.

Having seen a plethora of sports films where the ‘white savior’ complex is real, it was refreshing to see a film where the narrative was completely driven by indigenous culture in which they saved themselves. In addition, the old school methods of bonding by herding sheep, calling plays in Navajo and debunking theories like ‘never send woman to do a man’s job’ were refreshing and in line with where we are as a society in the 21st century.

One scene that had me laughing out loud was one where Coach Hobbs (former WNBA champ) brought in a gang of girl ballers to talk smack and encourage the guys to get on the A-game.

Executive produced by NBA superstar LeBron James and co-written by Reservation Dogs creator Sterlin Harjo Rez Ball illustrates proudly women taking control and the Navajo Nation controlling the narrative for their people and their stories.  It’s a beautifully crafted film that proves more can be accomplished by being united not divided.