Netflix is set to expand its sports documentary repertoire with a new NBA-focused docuseries. This fly-on-the-wall basketball feature will cover the lives of prominent NBA players LeBron James, Jayson Tatum, Jimmy Butler, Anthony Edwards, and Domantas Sabonis.
The series, still unnamed, is produced by Netflix in conjunction with a couple companies including Peyton Manning’s Omaha Productions – a relationship that first formed when the two companies produced the hit show Quarterback. Like the NFL show, this show promises to offer an in-depth look into the lives of the NBA’s biggest stars, both on the court and off. Fans of Netflix’s NFL docuseries Quarterback can expect similar deep dives into players’ lives in its new NBA offering.
Quarterback gave fans a never-before-seen look at the life of an NFL quarterback through the lives of three of the league’s most popular playmakers: Patrick Mahomes, Kirk Cousins, and Marcus Mariota. The series followed the players through the 2022 NFL season, documenting their highs and lows on the gridiron, in the locker room, and at home.
Quarterback was a huge hit, praised for its authentic and unscripted look at the life of a pro athlete. Season 2 is in the works. Netflix and Omaha Productions are banking on the NBA offshoot drawing even larger audiences.
Big Names Team Up to Produce New Series
The NBA series is a collaborative effort involving several heavyweight production companies. Peyton Manning’s Omaha Productions has teamed up with Lebron James’ SpringHill Company and Barack and Michelle Obama’s Higher Ground Productions to bring this ambitious project to life.
This super group of producers is thrilled that Lebron James will be participating in the show as a subject. His presence on screen all but guarantees a significant following.
Higher Ground Productions’ recent film, Leave the World Behind, received a significant bump in viewership thanks to the Obamas’ names appearing in the credits. The company also has experience producing award-winning documentaries, such as the Oscar-winning American Factory.
Omaha Productions brings its expertise in sports storytelling to the table. Jamie Horowitz, a co-founder of the company and former President of Fox Sports, is known for his innovative approach to sports media. He has pioneered some of the most iconic sports programs of the past 20 years, including ESPN’s First Take and SportsNation, FS1’s Undisputed and The Herd, and DAZN’s 40 Days.
Netflix and Omaha Productions Seek to Expand NBA Coverage
Netflix’s decision to create an NBA series aligns with its strategy of producing high-quality sports content without the hefty investment required for live sports broadcasting rights. This approach allows Netflix to delve into the sports media business innovatively and cost-effectively.
The streamer has scored hits in the sports niche with Quarterback for the NFL, Drive To Survive for F1, and Full Swing for golf. Netflix hopes the new NBA series will solidify the service as a must-have for sports fans.
At the same time, Omaha Productions is seeking to branch out from its football-heavy repertoire, and it has its sights set on the NBA. Manning’s company also recently announced a partnership with rising NBA commentator Kenny Beecham, promising new digital content from the YouTube sensation.
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