Shut Up and Dribble
A three-part documentary series that provides a unique and powerful inside look at the changing role of black athletes in today's cultural and political environments. "Shut Up and Dribble" chronicles the modern history of the NBA and how it allows athletes to grow their brands off the court to become icons. Narrated by writer Jemele Hill, the series uses its first installment to chronicle the professional lives of basketball's early standouts who impacted the world in different ways. These such members are Bill Russell, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Oscar Robertson and Isaiah Thomas. In a time when comments about race still linger, the series shows the impact of these influential athletes and how they should not just "Shut Up and Dribble."
S1, EP3 "Shut Up and Dribble"
"Malice in the Palace" creates an opportunity for players to own their brands; NBA players begin reaching unprecedented levels of economic and cultural influence and achieving the chance to stand up and be heard.
S1, EP2 "Shut Up and Dribble"
A quote by Michael Jordan becomes a declaration for a generation of players; Craig Hodges and Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf make their voices heard over the LA riots; Allen Iverson is a cultural trendsetter despite clashes with the NBA.
S1, EP1 "Shut Up and Dribble"
Prompted by Laura Ingraham's public criticism of LeBron James and other NBA players' outspokenness on the current political climate, the first episode is an exploration of the league's social and cultural influence across time.
