Rez Ball, the highly anticipated sports drama centered around basketball, is set to premiere on Netflix on September 27, 2024, making it a must-see for all basketball fans. Directed by Sydney Freeland, this film delves into the essence of Native American reservation basketball, capturing themes of perseverance and unity. Produced by basketball legend LeBron James, it promises to be an exhilarating experience packed with sports action and heartfelt moments.
The narrative follows the Chuska Warriors, a high school basketball team from New Mexico, as they strive for a state championship while mourning the loss of their star player. The film captures the challenges and fierce competition that ultimately bind the team together, showcasing the rich community spirit and cultural depth that defines them. Featuring a blend of renowned actors and promising newcomers, Rez Ball masterfully combines thrilling sports sequences with a poignant cultural storyline.
Familiar faces from acclaimed films and shows contribute to the emotional, inspiring unfolding of Rez Ball’s narrative. The journey of the Chuska Warriors is explored through each character’s perspective, adding layers of excitement to this intense basketball movie. Below, you will find a comprehensive cast list along with role descriptions for this eagerly awaited film.
According to the official synopsis on Netflix:
“After losing their star player, a high school basketball team rooted in Native American culture must unite to keep their state championship dreams alive.”
Main Cast of Rez Ball
Rez Ball features a talented main cast that vividly brings this high school basketball drama to life:
Jessica Matten
Jessica Matten plays a central character and is known for her roles in Dark Winds and Tribal. Her captivating presence adds emotional depth to the film.
Julia Jones
Julia Jones, recognized for her standout performances in The Mandalorian and Westworld, brings depth to the narrative as she plays a pivotal role in the Warriors’ journey.
Amber Middle Dogs
Amber Midthunder, known for her roles in Prey and Legion, takes on a crucial character that influences the team’s determination to prevail.
Kiowa Gordon
Kiowa Gordon, famous for his roles in Dark Winds and Reservation Dogs, plays a key part in the Warriors’ pursuit of victory.
Dallas Goldtooth
Dallas Goldtooth, another actor famously associated with Reservation Dogs, adds humor and resilience to the team’s dynamic.
Cody Lightning
Cody Lightning, drawing from his experience in Echo and The X-Files, delivers a performance that brings emotional intensity to the film.
This powerful ensemble cast serves as the foundation of Rez Ball, each actor uniquely contributing to the portrayal of the Chuska Warriors.
Supporting Cast of Rez Ball
In addition to the main cast, Rez Ball incorporates a talented supporting ensemble that enriches the storyline:
Ernest Tsosie (known from Better Call Saul), Kauchani H. Bratt, Devin Sampson Craig, and River Rayne Thomas all deliver notable performances as vital members of the basketball team.
Other cast members, including Jojo Jackson, Avery Hale, Hunter Redhorse Arthur, Henry Wilson Jr., Jaren K. Robledo, Damian Castellane, Kusem Goodwind, and Zoey Reyes, play integral roles in the Warriors’ championship pursuit, representing teammates and community supporters.
Each supporting actor enhances the film’s portrayal of community spirit and team dynamics as they step through the obstacles of the season. The casting process was intensely competitive, with over 5,000 submissions vying for just 10 roles. Sydney Freeland was dedicated to ensuring the selected actors could authentically embody the athleticism and emotional complexities required for their characters.
Directors and Producers
Rez Ball is directed by Sydney Freeland, whose passion for both filmmaking and basketball shines through. Freeland, alongside co-writer Sterlin Harjo (known for Reservation Dogs), crafted a script rooted in their Native American heritage.
The film’s production is spearheaded by prominent figures within the entertainment industry: LeBron James and his production company, The SpringHill Company, lend their considerable expertise to enhance this impactful story.
Additional producers, Maurício Mota and Katie Elmore Mota from Wise Entertainment, bring their experience from producing previous successes like East Los High. Other contributors include Nancy Utley (Lake Ellyn Entertainment), Spencer Beighley, and Jamal Henderson from The SpringHill Company.
This dynamic production team guarantees that Rez Ball remains true to its cultural roots while also appealing to a wide audience through the sports drama genre.
Rez Ball showcases a remarkable cast of both established and emerging actors who collectively narrate an inspiring underdog tale. With powerful performances from Jessica Matten, Julia Jones, Amber Midthunder, and others, the film vividly depicts the Chuska Warriors’ journey.
The entire production crew, led by Sydney Freeland and LeBron James, is set to make Rez Ball a standout feature in the sports drama landscape. Be sure to catch Rez Ball when it debuts on Netflix, September 27, 2024.
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