Meagan Good (“Shazam!”), Jabari Banks (“Bel-Air”) and Bailee Madison (“Pretty Little Liars”) will star in “Rocky Top College,” the latest screenplay by former NBA player turned filmmaker Jarnell Stokes.
Directed by Jamal Hill (“Sins of the Father”), “Rocky Top College” follows the harrowing journey of Zion Williams, a young African American basketball prodigy from Memphis. After being suspended during his highly anticipated senior year, the nation’s No. 1 ranked prep phenom shocks the sports world by enrolling in a small-time college to continue his quest for NBA stardom. But once on campus, a series of peculiar and disturbing events has him questioning his decision whilst fighting to hold onto his fleeting sanity.
“This story is deeply personal, inspired by real-life experiences, and I’m grateful to have such a talented team helping bring it to life,” said Stokes. “Like Zion, I once walked this path. Basketball was my anchor in an unforgiving world, and I want this film to show young people that hope, and healing are always within reach.”
Stokes will produce the project under his Stoked Bros banner alongside Emmy-nominated producer Aisha Wynn, Nigel Thomas and Rick Benattar. Good will serve as executive producer with Shondrella Avery, Sean Mik’ael Butler, Patrick Strøm, Isaiah Stokes, and Beth Fryman Poulin of Stoked Sports.
Filming is set to begin this month on location in Louisville, Ky.
“The moment Jarnell shared this story with me, I knew it was something special. ‘Rocky Top College’ is more than a sports film – it’s a gripping journey of resilience, and purpose,” said Hill. “We’re exploring the depths of our young hero’s psyche, blending suspense with a unique twist to create an unforgettable experience. I’m excited to bring another production to Kentucky and share this story with the world.”
Good added, “This marks my third time working with Jamal Hill, and my admiration for him began after seeing ‘Brotherly Love’ at its premiere. Beyond being a fan of his artistry, I deeply respect his unique ability to communicate with actors and his collaborative spirit, which leads with confidence without compromising vision. I’m incredibly excited for what we’re about to create together.”
The announcement comes as Stoked Bros continues to make waves in the film industry with powerful upcoming projects like the Cuba Gooding, Jr.-led “Break the Cycle” and “American Smuggler” starring Dennis Haysbert. It also comes on the heels of the company’s launch of sister company Stoked Sports & Entertainment, a full-service management and production company focused on helping athletes and other crossover talent make the leap into film and TV.
Good is repped by Gersh Agency and Atlas Artists. Banks is with WME and Frontline Management, while Madison is represented by Aaron Brown of UTA. Hill is represented by Cultivate Entertainment Partners and IAG. Stokes is repped by Ryan Saul of Evoke Entertainment.
Source: Variety
