June 27, 2008 Gunnin' For That #1 Spot was released across the nation to various theaters. Adam Yauch (member of the Beastie Boys) directs and produces the film that briefly introduces us to the lives of eight of the country's most talented prep basketball players.
The film was shot at the Elite 24 in 2006 located at historical Holcolmb Rucker Park in Harlem, NY, just off the corner of 155th and Frederick Douglas Boulevard.
The documentary entails what it takes to be a high profile teenage athlete in today's fast paced environment of scouts, recruiters, agents, etc. It allows for us to go to the hometowns of Brandon Jennings, Michael Beasley, Tyreke Evans, Jerryd Bayless, Kevin Love, Donte Green, Kyle Singler, and last but definitely not least Lance Stephenson.
This movie, if we let it, will open doors for those of us who want to know what kind of situations these young men encounter. By showing us their lives at home and on the road, it brings us closer to athletes that someday may seem like untouchable icons.
I'm writing this brief summary of this movie because I personally feel that the more we know about these young athletes and the way they are brought up, the better we can start to understand some of the decisions that they make.
This movie will set itself apart from other related documentaries. (Hoop Dreams, Through the Fire, and Soul in the Hole).
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3 months ago
It is weird that we look at these kids more as objects that our schools get than people. When I went off to college it was strange thinking that the men playing on the basketball team were my age and actual people with lives off the court. I look forward to the movie, even with Dookie Singler in it.
3 months ago
These young cats need to understand where they come from before they know where it is they'll be going.
3 months ago
I agree with you, but you have to say that this youth moment will be a cornerstone of sports history when it's all said and done.
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