The Most Comprehensive Database of African-Americans in Sports

In 1994, when a certain documentary hit the Sundance Film Festival, it instantly captured the hearts of audiences all around the country. This was proven by having the honor of an Audience Award being bestowed upon it. And after scoring a major distribution deal from Fine Line Cinema, it became arguably one of the greatest sports films ever. So when this movie had run its course in movie theatres, its impact on society never wavered. In fact, it stood the test of time.

"Hoop Dreams" chronicles five years in the lives of two high school basketball players from inner-city Chicago. In essence, it became America’s first reality show. It resonated with audiences precisely because it wasn't about famous people. William Gates and Arthur Agee were not can't-miss prodigies. Gates eventually became a bit player at Marquette, while Agee played two years of junior college ball before suiting up for Arkansas State. Agee bounced around basketball's minor leagues for a few years after that, playing for teams eager to capitalize on his "Hoop Dreams" notoriety, but neither player ever sniffed the NBA.

So how did a 2-hour, 50 minute account about two ordinary basketball players mean so much to America (and not just the sports world)? The answer is simple. The movie is a pure example of how life’s journey is not over, whether dreams are wavered or not. Sure, both Gates and Agee had dreams of having long-lasting NBA careers. But once reality set in, neither one gave up on life. New families were created and communities were aided. Gates eventually married his daughter's mother, had three more children and returned to his old neighborhood to start a ministry. Agee teaches the "Hoop Dreams" Curriculum, which encourages children to follow their dreams and get their education. He speaks at various public schools throughout the country each year. In addition, he recently launched a 'Hoop Dreams' clothing line (slogan: Control Your Destiny).

The wide-eyed boys who grew up before America’s eyes are gone now, but their lives have continued to unfold in real time. The movie ends with Gates reflecting on all the friends and family who were so desperate to see him fulfill his hoop dreams, much more for their sakes than for his. "When somebody said, 'When you get to the NBA, don't forget about me,' I should have said, 'If I don't make it, don't forget about me.'" Neither Gates nor Agee ever made it to the NBA, but 15 years after they first brought reality to the big screen, these two ordinary people are as unforgettable as ever.