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15 best Christian basketball movies (Inspirational sports)

These inspirational Christian basketball movies demonstrate how the Christian faith can influence individual players, and coaches — even whole communities — when expressed both on and off the basketball court. Discover the 15 best faith-based basketball movies in our curated list.

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These inspirational basketball movies demonstrate how the Christian faith can influence individual players, and coaches — even whole communities — when expressed both on and off the basketball court.

With two boys, my family and I love watching inspirational sports movies — especially the underdog stories!

We find the mix of hard work, life lessons, and sports action make for a great Friday movie night, especially when there’s Christian message or themes.

If I had to recommend one great baseball movie to watch, it would be "Hoosiers."

It's a true underdog story, and while not a faith-based movie, one of my sports-loving pastors recommends it (he played a clip at service).

If you enjoyed the football movie "The Blind Side," you might enjoy "Overcomers" from the Kendrick Brothers.

It shares the story of a basketball coach who mentors a troubled teen.

Please note: While most of these films are perfect for a family movie night (with G or PG ratings), a few are for mature audiences.

I included them because they share Christian themes such as forgiveness and reconciliation. I added them at the bottom of this list of sports movies.

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Top 15 Christian basketball movies

Table of Contents

 

1. Overcomer (2019)

Rating: PG 

A high school basketball coach dreams of reaching the championships, but is crushed when the small town's largest plant shuts down and his best players move away. 

Reluctantly, he recruits the school’s only cross-country runner, a young girl struggling with asthma and her own identity.

Why watch: This is another great movie by the Kendrick Brothers and shares a clear message of identity in Christ instead of performance or career. 

Cast: Ben Davies, Alex Kendrick, Cameron Arnett

Where to watch: 

  • Stream: Netflix

  • Rent or buy: Amazon, Apple TV, Google Play, or DVD 

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

2. Hoosiers (1986)

Rating: PG 

This is a classic movie everyone should see. Set in the 1950s, Norman Dale arrives in a tiny Indiana town and gets a coaching job to lead the high school basketball team.  

The "Hickory Huskers" make a run for the state championship. It’s an underdog story that will have you cheering!

While mostly fiction, the story is loosely based on the 1954 Milan High School team.

Why watch: It’s not a Christian film, but it emphasizes faith-based themes of second chances, forgiveness, and the importance of church and prayer in a community. 

Cast: Barbara Hershey, Gene Hackman, Dennis Hopper

Where to watch: 

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

3. The Mighty Macs (2009)

Rating: G 

In the early 1970s, Cathy Rush (Carla Gugino) takes a basketball coaching job at a small Catholic women's college — that doesn't have a gym or uniforms!

With the help of her assistant coach, a nun, Rush must rally the team and the college's Sisters as they head to the national championships.

It’s based on the true story of the basketball team at Immaculata College in Pennsylvania.

Why watch: For an uplifting, family-friendly film that emphasizes persistence and highlights Catholic culture with a good message.

Cast: Carla Gugino, Marley Shelton, David Boreanaz, Ellen Burstyn

Where to watch: 

  • Stream: UP Faith & Family

  • Rent or buy:  Amazon, Apple TV, Vudu, or DVD

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

4. The Pistol: Birth of a Legend (1991)

Rating: G 

This biographical film shares the 1959 season of Pete “The Pistol” Maravich, who was mentored by his father but struggled to fit in with older, bigger basketball players. 

The movie is based on the life of Maravich, a professional basketball player who is a five-time All-Star and four-time All-NBA.

Why watch: A nostalgic classic for many families, Maravich became a devout Christian later in life. Many viewers enjoy its theme of "work unto the Lord” and use the Bible Study (leader kit).

Cast: Millie Perkins, Nick Benedict, Adam Guier

Where to watch: 

  • Stream: Pure Flix

  • Free with ads: YouTube, Tubi

  • Rent or buy:  Amazon, Google Play, or DVD

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

5. Nothing is Impossible (2022)

Rating: PG 

A former high school basketball star is working as a high school janitor when he gets a chance to try out for an NBA team. 

After years of disappointment, he must decide if he’ll trust God with his future as a pro team decides to hold open tryouts.

Why watch: It’s a lighthearted story of failure and redemption. Fans of “God’s Not Dead” may recognize some of the actors.

There’s also a a free discussion guide.

Cast: David A.R. White, Nadia Bjorlin, Mark Christopher Lawrence, Robert Amaya, Stella Parton, Steven Bauer, Harry Lennix

Where to watch: 

  • Stream: Pure Flix

  • Rent or buy: Amazon, Apple TV, or DVD

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

6. Prayer Never Fails (2016)

Rating: PG

An up-and-coming high school basketball coach is fired for praying with a player. 

The movie follows the legal battle as the coach stands up for his right to express his faith amid secular objections.

It’s an original story, but for Christians who have followed similar legal challenges in the news, it will feel familiar.

Why watch: It takes on the issue of religious freedom and the courage to stand for your Christian convictions. 

Cast: Corbin Bernsen

Where to watch

  • Stream: Pure Flix, Amazon Prime, or UP Faith & Family

  • Free with ads: Tubi, Pluto TV, Roku Channel

  • Rent or buy: Google Play, Amazon, Apple TV, or DVD

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

7. My Many Sons (2016)

Rating: PG 

The film shares the story of legendary college basketball coach Don Meyer and the question of how he achieved winning season after winning season.

Meyer is the most winning basketball coach in NCAA history (making this a must-watch during March Madness).

From a life-threatening accident that required his leg to be amputated, to his relentless focus on building the character of his players, this is an uplifting movie.

I love the message of how much of an impact a coach can make on young men.

Why watch: It emphasizes mentorship and how coaching is more than winning games, but also about building character.

Cast: Casey Bond, Judge Reinhold, Michael Papajohn, Terri Minton, Alex MacNicoll

Where to watch: 

  • Stream: Pure Flix or UP Faith & Family

  • Free with ads: Pluto TV, Plex, or Vudu

  • Rent or buy: Amazon, Google Play, or DVD

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

8. Spirit of the Game (2016) 

Rating: PG

Set in the 1950s, the movie follows Mormon Delyle Condie (Aaron Jakubenko), a star basketball player who walks away from a promising career and a broken engagement.

Instead, he goes overseas on a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS) in Australia. 

Once in Melbourne, Delyle helps train the new Australian national basketball team for their first-ever Olympic competition.

The movie’s based on the true story of the “Mormon Yankees,” a basketball team of missionaries.

Why watch it: While explicitly focused on LDS missions, the film broadly shows the power of faith in action.

Cast: Aaron Jakubenko, Anna McGahan, Kevin Sorbo, Wade Briggs

Where to Watch:

  • Free with ads: Tubi, Pluto TV, The Roku Channel, and Plex.

  • Rent or buy: Apple TV, Amazon, or Fandango at Home, or DVD

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

9. Glory Road (2006)

Rating: PG 

Head basketball coach Don Haskins (Josh Lucas) is facing budget cuts and a struggling program at Texas Western College in the 1960s.

He decides to ignore the unwritten rule to limit the number of black players on the basketball court, instead focusing on recruiting the best players he can find. 

The movie follows his team’s journey through racial tension, prejudice, and threats — and makes it to the NCAA Championship.

There he makes the historical decision to start with an all-black lineup. It’s based on the true story of the 1966 Texas Western Miners.

Why watch it: With subtle Christian themes, it has a powerful message of justice and equality, as well as character.

Cast: Josh Lucas, Derek Luke, Austin Nichols

Where to Watch: 

  • Stream: Disney+

  • Rent or buy: Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play, Fandango at Home, or DVD 

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

10. Coach Carter (2005)

Rating: PG-13

Basketball coach Ken Carter (Samuel L. Jackson) returns to his high school in the tough neighborhood of Richmond, California.

A "man of his word," Carter institutes tough love and strict rules, including a 2.3 GPA, perfect attendance, and dressing up on game days. 

The team's winning streak propels them forward, but when the players' academics falter, Carter does the unthinkable. He locks the gym, cancels practice, and forefeits the game.

The movie is based on the 1999 season of the Richmond High School Oilers and a coach who took similar measures, including forfeiting a game despite the team's undefeated streak, to focus on character and making good decisions.

Why watch it: While not a Christian movie, our family enjoyed watching it, as we found its message of integrity and responsibility sound. 

Cast: Samuel L. Jackson, Robert Ri’chard, Rob Brown, Ashanti, Debbi Morgan

Where to Watch: 

  • Stream: Paramount+ or Max 

  • Rent or buy: Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play, Fandango at Home, or DVD 

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

11. New Hope (2012)

Rating: PG-13

It's a Christian film with a gritty story. Michael Evans (Samuel Davis) is the son of a preacher who moves to the small town of New Hope for his senior year of high school.

He joins the basketball team but immediately clashes with the star player, Lucas (Ben Davies).

Lucas is consumed with anger and grief following the suicide of his brother, Chase. And he sees Michael as an unwelcome outsider trying to fill his brother's shoes on the basketball court and by dating Lucas's former girlfriend.

The story follows Michael as he relies on his faith despite bullying and persecution. 

Why watch it: This faith-based movie shares the message of salvation and the importance of the local church.

The main character, Michael, demonstrates "turning the other cheek" when dealing with bullies.

Cast: Samuel Davis, Perry Frost, Ben Davies

Where to Watch: 

  • Free with ads: Tubi, Pluto TV, The Roku Channel, Freevee, Plex, Dove Channel, or UP Faith & Family.

  • Rent or buy: Amazon,  Apple TV, or DVD 

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

12. For the Glory (2011)

Rating: PG 

The film follows Kurt Kuykendall (Jason Burkey), a talented college basketball player whose lifelong dream is to play in the Olympics.

His world is turned upside down when he's cut from the team as a freshman, however, and the disappointment is crushing. 

Facing the weight of a broken home (an alcoholic mother and a demanding father), Kurt struggles to see his future.

A friend suggests he try out for a fraternity's soccer team, and Kurt discovers his natural talent. The story follows him as he reaches the Olympic training squad.

It's based on the true story of Kurt Kuykendall, who switched from basketball to soccer in college and became a professional goalie. He played for the New York Cosmos and the U.S. Olympic team.

Why watch it: While so many sports films emphasize winning, this one reminds you that God works in all things for good, including failure.

The film also depicts the importance of integrity and faith despite challenges at home.

Cast: Donald Leow, Kenneth Altman, Christopher Rogers, Joshua Taylor, Cortney Matz

Where to Watch: 

  • Free with ads: Tubi, The Roku Channel, Pluto TV, Freevee, UP Faith & Family, Dove Channel, or New Faith Network.

  • Rent or buy: Amazon, Apple TV, or Fandango at Home. 

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

13. Hoop Dreams

Rating: PG-13

This is not a Christian movie, as it depicts some of the realities of life in inner-city Chicago, but it is “Christian-friendly.” 

The documentary follows two African American teenagers from Chicago, William Gates and Arthur Agee, who were recruited in 8th grade to play at a predominantly white Catholic high school. 

One of the subplots explores the relationship between Arthur’s father and the challenges of sobriety and reconciliation.

Why watch: The boys’ mothers are the spiritual backbones of their families, and the film depicts their resilience and reliance on God despite the challenges of poverty. 

Where to watch:

  • Stream: HBO Max, The Criterion Channel

  • Free with ads: Tubi, Pluto TV.

  • Rent or buy: Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play, or DVD 

➡️  Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

14. He Got Game (1998)

Rated: 

This is not a Christian movie, but this gritty film explores the faith-oriented theme of forgiveness and reconciliation.

Directed by Spike Lee, it follows the main character, Jake Shuttlesworth (Denzel Washington), who is a prisoner serving time for his wife’s accidental death.

Jake is granted a temporary week-long release by the governor, who offers him a deal. His sentence will be reduced if he convinces his estranged son, Jesus Shuttlesworth, to sign with the governor’s alma mater.

While this is a fictional story, the character of Jesus Shuttlesworth was inspired by New York legends such as Stephon Marbury and the pressure basketball stars face. 

Why watch it: This movie is for mature audiences, yet there are subtle Christian themes, including forgiveness and reconciliation.

Cast: Denzel Washington, Hill Harper, Milla Jovovich, Ray Allen, Rosario Dawson

Where to watch: 

  • Stream: Disney+ or Hulu

  • Rent or buy: Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play, Fandango at Home, or DVD

➡️  Watch the trailer ⬅️

 
 

Mackenzie Ryan Walters is the author of “Faith Storytellers: Unleash the Power of Your Story” and the editor of the Faith Storytellers website, which publishes Christian testimonies and curated lists of Christian books, gifts, and more. A national award-winning former education journalist who’s covered a presidential campaign and been inside NASA, Mackenzie is passionate about lifting up and sharing the story God is writing in the world.

 

This post contains affiliate links. By using these links to make a purchase, you’re helping Faith Storytellers continue to share inspiring stories of God’s work in the world.

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21 Christian football movies (Best inspiring films)

Discover 21 Christian football movies that share the uplifting messages of faith, redemption, and perseverance. Featuring stories of football coaches, individual players, and entire teams, these are the best football films that will inspire your faith and encourage you to seek God's guidance through triumphs or adversity.

Jump to movies

My husband and I often flip to a Christian football movie on Friday nights, especially as our boys were growing up.

We’re a football-watching family, and have found that this specific genre of film is the perfect blend of action and uplifting messages of faith, redemption, and perseverance.

I’ve curated the 21 best Christian football movies, which highlight (both subtly and directly) themes of overcoming adversity with faith.

Not sure where to start?

Our family loves “American Underdog,” as it shares an underdog story from our home state of Iowa — a man who kept going when everyone said he should stop.

A football sits on a grassy field. The text over the photo says, "From Faith Storytellers: 21 Christian Football Movies"

Top 21 Christian football movies: Inspiring faith-based films

Table of Contents

 

1. The Blind Side (2009)

Rating: PG-13

Homeless teen Michael Oher is adopted by devout Christian family the Tuohys, who nurture his football talent and faith amid challenges.

As Michael integrates into their affluent world, he faces academic struggles and racial prejudices but finds stability through their support.

  • Based on a true story: Michael Oher rose from foster homes and poverty in Memphis to become an NFL offensive tackle after the Tuohys' intervention.

  • Cast: Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw, Quinton Aaron, Kathy Bates, Lily Collins, Jae Head, Ray McKinnon

  • Where to Watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime, DVD

  • Based on a book: Yes, “The Blind Side: Evolution of a Game” by Michael Lewis.

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

2. Remember the Titans (2000)

Rating: PG

Newly integrated high school football team battles racism through a football season. High school football coach Herman Boone draws on unity and subtle faith in community.

Tensions flare as Black and white players clash during training camp, but shared hardships forge unbreakable bonds. Boone's tough leadership and the team's undefeated season inspire the divided town of Alexandria, Virginia.

  • Based on a true story: The 1971 T.C. Williams High School Titans, who won the state championship amid school desegregation.

  • Cast: Denzel Washington, Donald Adeosun Faison, Ryan Hurst, Will Patton, Wood Harris

  • Where to Watch: Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Prime, DVD

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

3. Rudy (1993)

Rating: PG

Undersized Daniel Ruettiger pursues his dream of playing football at Notre Dame.

Despite rejections, dyslexia, and physical limitations, he puts in the work and walks on to the team after years of persistence and hard work.

Rudy’s relentless spirit culminates in a legendary moment on the field.

  • Based on a true story: Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger sacked the quarterback in his only college play during Notre Dame's final 1975 game.

  • Cast: Greta Lind, Jon Favreau, Ned Beatty, Scott Benjaminson, Sean Astin

  • Why Watch: Testament to grit, prayer, and divine purpose in pursuing impossible goals.

  • Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Peacock, DVD

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

4. American Underdog (2021)

Rating: PG

Kurt Warner rises from stockboy to NFL MVP with wife Brenda's unwavering Christian faith guiding their journey.

After undrafted stints in the Arena League and working in a grocery store as a young man, Warner seized a Rams opportunity amid personal hardships.

Their blended family endures setbacks, but prayer sustains them through triumphs.

  • Based on a true story: Kurt Warner's journey from the University of Northern Iowa to Super Bowl champion and two-time NFL MVP.

  • Cast: Anna Paquin, Dennis Quaid, Zachary Levi

  • Where to Watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime, DVD

  • Based on the book: “All Things Possible” by Kurt Warner.

  • Small group resources: Download the free discussion guide.

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

5. When the Game Stands Tall (2014)

Rating: PG

After a 151-game winning streak ends, personal tragedies test the Spartans' resolve.

De La Salle coach Bob Ladouceur leads his team through a loss streak, emphasizing faith, brotherhood, and servant leadership.

His "Commitment to Excellence" philosophy rebuilds the team both spiritually and competitively.

  • Based on a true story: De La Salle High School Spartans' record-breaking streak from 1992-2003.

  • Cast: Laura Dern, Jim Caviezel, Alexander Ludwig, Michael Chiklis, Clancy Brown

  • Where to Watch: Peacock, Tubi, Amazon Video, DVD

  • Based on the book: “When the Game Stands Tall” by Neil Hayes.

  • Small group resources: Download the free discussion guide.

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

6. The Game Plan (2007)

Rating: PG

Selfish NFL quarterback Joe Kingman discovers daughter, learning family values and subtle faith lessons.

Peyton's arrival upends Joe's bachelor life, forcing him to balance games and parenting.

Through ballet recitals and team pressures, he grows into a devoted father, shifting his priorities away from the football field.

This family-friendly movie has subtle Christian themes, but focuses more on responsibility and family.

  • Cast: Dwayne "The Rock” Johnson, Kyra Sedgwick, Morris Chestnut, Roselyn Sanchez

  • Where to Watch: Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Video, DVD

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

7. The Longshots (2008)

Rating: PG

In struggling Harvey, Illinois, an unemployed uncle coaches his niece Jasmine, the first female Pop Warner quarterback.

Jasmine defies gender norms on the field, inspiring the town through her perseverance and growth.

  • Based on a true story: Jasmine Plummer's 2003 season as the first girl to play quarterback in Pop Warner history.

  • Cast: Ice Cube, Keke Palmer, Tasha Smith

  • Where to Watch: Amazon Video, Tubi, DVD

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

8. Facing the Giants (2006)

Rating: PG

Struggling football coach Grant Taylor recommits to God, leading the underdog team to victory via faith over fear.

Facing job loss and infertility, an unexpected visitor helps him trust God for the seemingly impossible, and he challenges his team to play for divine glory.

Shiloh Eagles players start praying together and sharing their faith, functioning as a youth group, and revival sweeps the school, turning defeats into miracles.

Alex Kendrick directed, co-wrote, and stars in this incredible story that explores miraculous plays and personal healings, affirming God's faithfulness.

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

9. Woodlawn (2015)

Rating: PG

Story: A 1970s desegregated football team in Birmingham, Alabama, is united through Christian conversions and revival, despite racial tensions that threaten to fracture the team.

This is a powerful depiction of faith in Christ healing division, breaking down barriers, and inspiring purpose.

  • Based on a true story: Woodlawn High School's 1973-74 season in Birmingham, Alabama, where a Jesus Movement revival unifies an integrated team.

  • Cast: Francesca Battistelli, Jet Jurgensmeyer, Kirk B.R. Woller, Marcus Henderson, Richard Kohnke

  • Where to Watch: Pure Flix, Netflix, Amazon, or DVD

  • Based on the book: “Woodlawn” by Todd Gerelds.

  • Small group resources: “One: The Woodlawn Study Journal” by Dave Stone and Dr. Tony Evans.

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

10. Greater (2016)

Rating: PG

Story: Overweight and overlooked in middle and high school, Brandon Burlsworth committed to the game of football through discipline, work ethnic, and a relentless faith.

Burlsworth’s success inspired his Arkansas Razorbacks teammates — I was cheering for him as he overcame the odds — but tragedy struck post-draft. It's a tear-jerker.

With an emphasis on character and discipline, this is a true underdog story, with an inspiring main character you can’t help but cheer for as he perseveres despite the incredible odds against him.

  • Based on a true story: Brandon Burlsworth's life as an Arkansas walk-on who became All-SEC before dying in a car crash in 1999.

  • Cast: Leslie Easterbrook, Neal McDonough

  • Where to Watch: Netflix, Amazon, or DVD

  • Based on the book: “Eyes of a Champion” by Jeff Kinley.

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

11. Run the Race (2018)

Rating: PG

In this faith-based film, brothers cope with their mother's death on the football field and find healing through Christian mentorship and a father figure.

The film explores the challenges of broken homes, absent fathers, and strained sibling bonds.

As the playoffs loom, faith mends their fractured family as they find deeper purpose.

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

12. 23 Blast (2014)

Rating: PG

After a rare infection robs him of his sight, Travis Freeman must decide whether to return to football despite his blindness.

Sustained by an unshakeable faith and friends, and through determination and prayer, his teammates rally to help him adapt and return to the game he loves.

  • Based on a true story: Travis Freeman's battle with corneal infection, and his return as Corbin High's quarterback while blind.

  • Cast: Alexa PenaVega, Bram Hoover, Mark Hapka, Max Adler, Stephen Lang

  • Where to Watch: Angel Studios, Netflix, Amazon Video, or DVD

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

13. The 5th Quarter (2010)

Rating: PG-13

This Christian movie shares how a tight-knit family overcomes adversity after a devastating drunk driving crash.

After his brother Luke's death, Jon Abbate leads the Wake Forest team in tribute, leaning on family faith.

The Demon Deacons rally, and Jon channels his grief as he puts his all on the field and honors Luke at every game.

  • Based on a true story: The 2006 tragedy of 15-year-old Luke Abbate, inspiring his brother Jon Abbate’s ACC championship.

  • Cast: Aidan Quinn, Andie MacDowell, Andrea Powell, Anessa Ramsey, Ryan Merriman

  • Why Watch: Honors legacy through grief, unity, and spiritual strength.

  • Where to Watch: Amazon, Tubi, or DVD

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

14. Hometown Legend (2002)

Rating: PG

A football team in a small town in Alabama is facing closure, and a retired coach returns to help them finish their last season — and meets a troubled teen.

The story follows the community as it rallies around its football team during one last push to the championship.

“Hometown Legend” shares the power of redemption and prayer.

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

15. Season of a Lifetime (2011)

Rating: Not Rated

Despite being diagnosed with ALS, a terminal disease, football coach Jeremy Williams refuses to retire. This inspirational movie tells the story of his final season, which is fueled by faith.

The town rallies around Williams and the team as they head for the Georgia state championship.

  • Based on a true story: Jeremy Williams' 2006 season coaching Evans High School to a 13-0 record while battling ALS.

  • Cast: Jeremy Williams 

  • Why Watch: Teaches living fully for God despiteJeremy Williams terminal illness.

  • Where to Watch: Amazon Video, Tubi, or DVD

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

16. Catching Faith (2015)

Rating: PG

What seems perfect on the outside is far from it on the inside. The movie follows Alexa, the mother of a star football player and a straight-A daughter.

When Alexa’s father dies, however, she begins to question her image and begins a journey of self-discovery as she discovers her identity in Christ.

  • Cast: Alexandra Boylan, Bill Engvall, Garrett Westton, Lizz Carter, Lorena Segura York

  • Where to Watch: Pure Flix, Amazon, or DVD

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

17. Reggie's Prayer (1996)

Rating: PG-13

Retired pro football player Reggie Knox begins coaching in Portland, Oregon, where he mentors a troubled teen.

Knox is frustrated by his perceived lack of success, as he’s never won a championship.

But he begins to see a greater purpose as he helps the student amid gang threats. It’s an inspiring movie of a mentor’s impact.

  • Cast: Allan Creel, Cylk Cozart, Pat Morita, Reggie White

  • Where to Watch: Amazon, Tubi, or DVD

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

18. Game Time: Tackling the Past (2011)

Rating: Not Rated

After “making it” as an NFL player, Ran McPartlin engages in faith and steps away from the game to go back to his small town after his father has a heart attack.

Back home, he must grapple with old wounds. The film emphasizes the healing power of grace.

  • Cast: Ryan McPartlin, Josh Braaten, Katie Carr

  • Where to Watch: Hallmark Channel, or DVD.

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

19. Tim Tebow: On a Mission (2012)

Rating: Not Rated

Story: A documentary on Tim Tebow's rise, this movie blends football success with Tim’s famous evangelistic Christian faith.

From Heisman wins to NFL trials, Tebow shares his mission-driven life on and off the field.

  • Why Watch: For a deeper look into Tim Tebow’s testimony and mission-focused life.

  • Based on a true story: Tim Tebow's career and faith journey, from Florida Gators star to NFL player.

  • Cast: Tim Tebow

  • Where to Watch: Prime Video, Apple TV, or DVD.

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

20. The Minister of Defense (2023)

Rating: PG

An ESPN “30 by 30” documentary on Reggie White, who was nicknamed “Minister of Defense.”

Whites’s of NFL dominance is intertwined with his pastoral calling and faith struggles.

It’s a poignant story of balancing Christian conviction and ministry while navigating the ups and downs of football fame.

  • Based on a true story: Reggie White's legacy as NFL sack leader and ordained minister.

  • Cast: Bill Belichick, Mark Bowden, Norman Braman

  • Where to Watch: ESPN+, Hulu, or  DVD

  • Based on the book: “Reggie White” by Reggie White and Terry Hill

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

21. The King's Heart (2015)

Rating: Not Rated

A family must grapple with their father's death before their son's football championship.

Joey is the smallest offensive lineman on his high school team, and faces overwhelming challenges just three days before the state championship.

  • Why Watch: Passing on faith to the next generation is a theme of this movie, as is resilience through grief.

  • Based on a true story: The brother of the film’s writers and directors.

  • Cast: Catherine Nastasi, Jason Dworak, Sean M. Grady

  • Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, DVD

➡️ Watch the trailer ⬅️

 

Mackenzie Ryan Walters is the author of “Faith Storytellers: Unleash the Power of Your Story” and the editor of the Faith Storytellers website, which publishes Christian testimonies and curated lists of Christian books, gifts, and more. A national award-winning former education journalist who’s covered a presidential campaign and been inside NASA, Mackenzie is passionate about lifting up and sharing the story God is writing in the world.

 

This post contains affiliate links. By using these links to make a purchase, you’re helping Faith Storytellers continue to share inspiring stories of God’s work in the world.

Read More