The First Basket (2008)

64% of critics liked it
(11 reviews)
36% of users liked it
(8,214 ratings)

David Vyorst's documentary The First Basket takes a look at the early days of the Basketball Association of America. When it was formed in 1946, the majority of players were Jewish -- a fact that certainly is not true of American basketball just 60 years later. This film showcases how these athletes… More David Vyorst's documentary The First Basket takes a look at the early days of the Basketball Association of America. When it was formed in 1946, the majority of players were Jewish -- a fact that certainly is not true of American basketball just 60 years later. This film showcases how these athletes provided inspiration for Jews suffering discrimination. ~ Perry Seibert, Rovi

Play Trailer

Rating, Runtime: Unrated, 1 hr. 26 min.
Directed By: David Vyorst
Genres: Documentary, Sports & Fitness

In Theaters: Nov 14, 2008 Wide
On DVD: Jun 9, 2009
Studio: Laemmie/Zeller Films

Critic Reviews

Sam Adams, Los Angeles Times
It uncovers a fascinating and largely forgotten chapter of the game's history that is well worth revisiting.
Lou Lumenick, New York Post
A valuable reminder that for nearly three decades, basketball was dominated by Jewish players -- and coaches who found the sport an ideal vehicle for assimilation in the United States.
Ronnie Scheib, Variety
When the history of the sport is allowed to unfold through the reminiscences of geriatric Yiddish pros, pic approaches the richness of its impressive archival trove. Too often, however, director David Vyorst's chauvinistic agenda intrudes.
Nathan Lee, New York Times
The First Basket, a functional (if narrowly interesting) history lesson by the filmmaker David Vyorst, recollects the rich history of Jewish participation in basketball.
Bob Strauss, Los Angeles Daily News
David Vyorst's comprehensive and celebratory documentary presents the stats in one easy-to-follow, nicely organized 86 minutes.
Mark Keizer, Boxoffice Magazine
The First Basket is a moderately interesting documentary about a moderately interesting subject.
Lewis Beale, Film Journal International
Filled with terrific archival footage, The Last Basket is engrossing and fun, but tends to go on a bit too long.
Drew Toal, Time Out New York
Students of the game will find the archival footage interesting, but casual filmgoers will likely be frustrated by the slavish on-court devotion to unflashy fundamentals and the inexcusable lack of dunking.
Joseph Jon Lanthier, Slant Magazine
Unforgiveable are the kitschy, Photoshopped graphics that maddeningly mock the defenseless interviewees from the sidelines.