Watch The Long Game: Bigger Than Basketball

The Long Game: Bigger Than Basketball is a captivating docuseries available on Apple TV+ that follows Makur Maker, an exceptionally talented basketball player from South Sudan, as he navigates the challenges of being a student-athlete and a potential NBA draft prospect. The show chronicles Maker's journey from his humble beginnings in Kenya to his high school days at a basketball powerhouse in California and beyond.

Shot with stunning cinematography and told through the eyes of Maker and the people closest to him, The Long Game is a powerful and inspiring story that is both a coming-of-age narrative and a commentary on the state of the modern-day American sports industry.

Throughout the series, viewers get to see Maker working through the tough decisions he must make as a young athlete with a lot of pressure on his shoulders. Emotions run high as the show sheds light on the expectations and responsibilities that come with being the best high school basketball player in the country. From dealing with the scrutiny of the media to managing the weight of his family's expectations, Maker has a lot to contend with.

Despite the intense pressure Maker faces, the show makes it clear that he is not alone in his journey. In fact, The Long Game is as much about the support around the athlete as it is about the athlete himself. The series showcases Maker's family, teammates, coaches, and friends that have helped him along the way. These people offer rich insight into Maker's personal story and help paint a fuller picture of the young athlete's world.

One of the most significant themes in The Long Game is the intersection of sports and politics. The show delves deep into the societal issues that affect Maker and other athletes like him, including the ongoing struggle for social justice in sport. The athletes featured in The Long Game are not just basketball players but agents of social change, working to make a difference both on and off the court.

Overall, The Long Game is an emotionally charged, thought-provoking show that offers a raw, intimate portrait of one athlete's journey. Through Makur Maker's story, viewers are given a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges facing young athletes today, the ways in which sports can change lives, and the responsibilities and pressures that come with being a high-profile athlete.

The Long Game provides a unique perspective on the sports industry that is not often seen on televised sports coverage. While it deeply explores the intricacies of the sport, it is equally interested in the lives, feelings and beliefs of the individuals involved. It is a must-watch for anyone who is passionate about sports, social justice or the power of the human spirit.

All in all, The Long Game is a triumph of storytelling that will bring a fresh perspective to those familiar with basketball, and will leave all viewers invested in Maker's future now the show has finished airing. This show is definitely not one to miss!

The Long Game: Bigger Than Basketball is a series that ran for 1 seasons (5 episodes) between April 22, 2022 and on Apple TV+