Watch Morgan Wootten: The Godfather of Basketball

Morgan Wootten: The Godfather of Basketball is an inspiring documentary film from 2016 that chronicles the life and legacy of the legendary high school basketball coach, Morgan Wootten. The movie takes us on a riveting journey through the incredible career of this iconic figure who transformed the game of basketball and left an indelible mark on American sports.

Directed by Luke McCoubrey, the film features insightful interviews with some of the biggest names in basketball, including Coach K, Mike Brey, and Tony Kornheiser, among others. The film is narrated by award-winning sports journalist, James Brown, who provides an engaging and informative context for Wootten's incredible achievements.

Through a combination of archival footage, interviews, and expert analysis, the movie immerses us in the world of high school basketball and reveals the profound impact that Wootten had on the sport. We learn how he revolutionized the game by emphasizing the importance of teamwork, discipline, and fundamentals. His coaching philosophy was simple yet effective - play hard, play smart, and play together.

Wootten was born in 1931 in Durham, North Carolina, and grew up playing basketball alongside his brothers in their backyard. He went on to play college basketball at the University of Maryland, where he was a standout player and student. But it was his coaching career that would define his legacy.

In 1956, Wootten was hired as the head basketball coach at DeMatha Catholic High School in Hyattsville, Maryland. He quickly made a name for himself as a brilliant tactician and mentor to his players. From the 1960s through the 80s, he led DeMatha to unprecedented success, amassing over 1,200 wins and becoming the winningest high school basketball coach in history.

One of the most compelling aspects of the film is how it portrays the close bond between Wootten and his players. Many of them credit him not only with teaching them how to play basketball but also with instilling important values that they carried with them throughout their lives. This is especially evident in the interviews with former players like Dereck Whittenburg, who played for Wootten in the 1970s and went on to become a successful college coach himself.

The movie also delves into some of the darker moments in Wootten's life, such as the scandal that marred his final years at DeMatha and the tragic death of his son, Joe, in 1997. But even in the face of tragedy and adversity, Wootten remained true to his values and continued to inspire others through his work in basketball and education.

Overall, Morgan Wootten: The Godfather of Basketball is a moving tribute to a man who truly changed the game of basketball and touched countless lives along the way. Whether you're a sports fan or simply interested in learning more about the human spirit, this documentary is a must-see. It reminds us of the power of mentorship, dedication, and perseverance, and how one person's passion for a sport can impact an entire community.

Morgan Wootten: The Godfather of Basketball is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 14 minutes.