Blazing A Trail: The Incredible True Story Of The First African American To Sign An NBA Contract Is Told In The Official ‘SWEETWATER’ Trailer + First Look Images

Angel Studios is an innovative platform that empowers creators to crowdfund, create, and distribute films and TV series globally with full creative control. This week (September 17th), the company announced that on September 26th, the feature film Sweetwater will be released exclusively to the Angel.com and Angel app platforms. The film follows the inspiring story of the first African-American to sign an NBA contract, Nat ‘Sweetwater’ Clifton.

“When Sweetwater was presented to the Angel Guild, the Guild’s reaction was nothing short of extraordinary,” reflects Jordan Harmon, President of Angel Studios. “As someone who plays the game himself three times a week, this powerful narrative of a remarkable athlete who revolutionized basketball resonates deeply with me.”

“We are honored by the response that the film has received by the Angel Guild audience,” shared Producer Darren Moorman. “I love Sweetwater’s story for so many reasons. As a filmmaker it’s always great to tell a story that is unknown, but has had such an amazing impact on the world.”

The story begins in 1949, with Harlem Globetrotter owner and coach Abe Saperstein organizing an exhibition game between his team and the NBA Champion Minneapolis Lakers. Surprisingly to some, the talented and inventive Black Globetrotters outplayed the Lakers, especially Sweetwater, who impressed the crowd with his graceful athleticism. Among those in attendance were New York Knicks owner Ned Irish and coach Joe Lapchick. The two took the lead in advocating for the integration of the team. With the support of NBA President Maurice Podoloff, Lapchick and Irish worked with the other team owners to create a groundbreaking moment in history.

Sweetwater stars Everett Osborne (Chicago Fire), Kevin Pollak (The Usual Suspects, A Few Good Men), Cary Elwes (The Princess Bride), Jeremy Piven (Entourage, Serendipity), Jim Caviezel (Sound Of Freedom) and Richard Dreyfuss (Jaws, Mr. Holland’s Opus). The film was written and directed by Martin Guigui (9/11, Beneath The Darkness) and was produced by Tim Moore (American Sniper, Sully), Darren Moorman (Blue Miracle, Sight), and Dahlia Waingort Guigui (The Bronx Bull).

Sweetwater will launch in the Angel app and at Angel.com on September 26th, 2024. In the meantime, check out the film’s official trailer and some first look photos!