Watch 89 Blocks

89 Blocks is a documentary series produced by LeBron James and Maverick Carter that follows the East St. Louis High School football team, the Flyers, during their 2016 season in Illinois. The show consists of three episodes, each an hour-long, and was aired on FS1 in November 2017.

The series delves into the lives of Coach Darren Sunkett and his players as they navigate through adversity both on and off the field. East St. Louis is a city that has been plagued by poverty, crime and socio-economic issues, and the team's success on the field is a rare source of hope and pride for the community.

The first episode, "The Culture," introduces the audience to the Flyers and their community. The episode provides a glimpse into the lives of several players, including quarterback Rey Estes and running back Jarrell Anderson, and their struggles to maintain academic eligibility and avoid getting caught up in the violence that surrounds them. Coach Sunkett, an East St. Louis native, is a tough but caring mentor who understands the challenges that his players face and is committed to helping them succeed both in the classroom and on the field.

In "The Team," the second episode, the focus shifts to the Flyers' quest for a state championship. The team has a winning record but faces stiff competition in the playoffs. The episode highlights the team's game against crosstown rival, Belleville West High School, which becomes a grueling battle that ends with a controversial call by the referees. The Flyers' resilience and determination in the face of adversity is on full display, exemplifying why they're more than just a football team to their community.

The final episode, "The City," documents the Flyers' journey to the state championship game in Champaign, Illinois. The game not only represents the team's shot at a state title but also an opportunity to lift the spirits of their hometown. The players take the field with a sense of purpose and pride that is palpable. The episode is a celebration of what sports can mean to a community and the power of perseverance in the face of obstacles.

89 Blocks is more than just a sports documentary. It offers a powerful look at a community that often goes unrecognized and the impact that a high school football team can have on its youth. The show is a reminder of the transformative power of sports and how they can bring a community together in the face of adversity.

The series is beautifully shot and expertly edited, with stunning on-field footage and intimate off-field moments that provide a glimpse into the lives of the players and coaches. The show's producers, including LeBron James and Maverick Carter, bring their considerable star power to the project, but it's their commitment to telling an honest and compelling story that makes 89 Blocks a must-watch documentary.

Overall, 89 Blocks is a powerful and inspirational series that will appeal to sports fans and non-sports fans alike. It's a reminder of the importance of community, mentorship, and the role that sports can play in shaping the lives of young people. The series is a testament to the resilience and determination of the human spirit and the hope that can arise from the unlikeliest of places.