1. Hoosiers (1986) – PG

For all basketball lovers, this one takes the cake and is the obvious #1 choice. A movie you can sit down and watch with your family as there are plenty of lessons taught throughout from beginning to end. Hoosiers takes place in a little Midwestern, Indiana town during the 1980’s. Led by a coach (Gene Hackman), who has his own demons, but still teaches his team the importance of playing together. If you haven’t seen this movie, stop what you are doing right now and go watch it on Amazon Prime or Hulu. Get with the program, Netflix.

2. Blue Chips (1994) – PG-13

Want to know what basketball is like behind the scenes at the next level? This movie depicts on what could/has happened and just how high the stakes are for Coaches and Players alike. More so relevant now than ever, with the most recent NCAA rulings (see Rick Pitino). This flick stars NBA Hall of Famer, Shaquille O’Neal, along with then teammate and All-Star Anfernee “Penny” Hardaway. Another “must” watch, especially for the “die-hard” fans… However, if you’re a “die-hard” you’ve probably already seen it.

3. He Got Game (1998)- Rated R

A Spike Lee film. Some would argue that this should be #1, and I can see the argument. He Got Game has a fantastic story-line led by Denzel Washington. It also stars Ray Allen as the main character who plays Jesus Shuttlesworth. Ray Allen playing such a large role was cool due to him being a future NBA Hall of Famer but is also the reason I have this at 3 instead of 1. What kept this out from the top spot? Ray Allen’s acting. There is a reason he hasn’t acted since. DO NOT let that stop you from taking the time to watch this movie.

4. Space Jam (1996)- PG

What do I have to say about this one? And this may tell you everything you need to know about my age. I’m a proud Millennial who will never ever get tired of watching this movie. I’m a father of 3, and I’ll still gladly turn this one on for “the kids”. Featuring the most “Star-Studded” cast on this list such as; Taz, Elmer Fudd, Yosemite Sam, Daffy Duck, Bugs Bunny, and many more. Almost forgot… the main character? The GOAT, himself, MICHAEL JORDAN. Mike begins his quest to save his Looney Tune friends from a life of inevitable misery on Moron Mountain, but not without the help of none other… Bill freakin’ Murray. If you don’t like this movie, I’d rather not speak to you, and count on not getting an invite to my next birthday party.

5. White Men Can’t Jump (1992)- Rated R

A story of two men (one black, one white) who team up to hustle basketball games off the streets of Venice Beach. Sounds mediocre doesn’t it? The two men are none other than Wesley Snipes and Woody Harrelson. Interested now? They’re hilarious and are both shining examples that anything can be accomplished when putting your differences aside, especially when when cash is on the line. Anyone up for it?

Editor’s Note: Coach Carter not being on this list is a travesty.