Hoops to Hollywood: NBA Stars on the Big Screen

1. Uncut Gems (2019) - Kevin Garnett

Kevin Garnett delivers a surprisingly captivating and critically praised performance playing himself in this intense Safdie Brothers thriller. His portrayal is integral to the film's plot, showcasing not just his on-court persona but also a surprisingly strong dramatic presence. The film itself was highly acclaimed for its gritty realism and Adam Sandler's lead performance.

2. He Got Game (1998) - Ray Allen

Directed by Spike Lee, "He Got Game" features Ray Allen in a leading role as Jesus Shuttlesworth, a top high school basketball prospect. Allen's performance was lauded for its authenticity and depth, holding his own alongside Denzel Washington. The film is widely considered one of the most powerful and authentic basketball movies ever made.

3. Space Jam (1996) - Michael Jordan & multiple NBA stars

A cultural phenomenon, "Space Jam" stars Michael Jordan playing himself alongside the Looney Tunes. While the critical reception was mixed upon release, it has become a beloved classic for many generations. The film also features prominent roles for Charles Barkley, Patrick Ewing, Muggsy Bogues, Larry Johnson, and Shawn Bradley, whose stolen talents drive the plot.

4. Airplane! (1980) - Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's deadpan comedic performance as co-pilot Roger Murdock in the classic spoof "Airplane!" is legendary. His uncredited but memorable role includes a hilarious reveal and some iconic lines. The film itself is universally lauded as one of the greatest comedies of all time, making this a standout acting appearance.

5. Blue Chips (1994) - Shaquille O'Neal & Penny Hardaway

Shaquille O'Neal and Anfernee "Penny" Hardaway star as highly sought-after college basketball recruits in this drama about the pressures and temptations of college sports. Both players delivered believable performances, with Shaq, in particular, showing his early acting chops. The film was well-received for its realistic portrayal of recruiting ethics.

6. Trainwreck (2015) - LeBron James

LeBron James made a surprising and acclaimed comedic turn playing himself as Bill Hader's best friend in Amy Schumer's hit comedy "Trainwreck." His self-deprecating humor and natural delivery earned rave reviews, showing a side of the superstar rarely seen on the court. The film was a critical and commercial success.

7. White Men Can't Jump (1992) - Marques Johnson

NBA All-Star Marques Johnson delivers a memorable and authentic performance as Raymond, one of the streetballers Woody Harrelson and Wesley Snipes encounter. This critically acclaimed and culturally significant basketball film benefits greatly from Johnson's natural acting and real-life basketball skills, making it a fan favorite.

8. Space Jam: A New Legacy (2021) - LeBron James & multiple NBA/WNBA stars

The highly anticipated sequel features LeBron James in the lead role, bringing along a significant roster of contemporary NBA and WNBA stars. While its critical reception was mixed compared to the original, it's an undeniable and very recent example of numerous top players engaging in acting roles within a major studio production.

9. Hustle (2022) - Juancho Hernangómez & multiple NBA stars

Adam Sandler's critically acclaimed sports drama "Hustle" stars real-life NBA player Juancho Hernangómez as Bo Cruz, a raw but talented prospect. Hernangómez delivers a compelling and authentic performance as the film explores his journey from obscurity to the NBA. The movie features numerous NBA cameos and was praised for its genuine depiction of basketball.

10. Uncle Drew (2018) - Kyrie Irving & multiple NBA stars

Based on the popular Pepsi MAX commercials, "Uncle Drew" stars Kyrie Irving in the titular role, an elderly streetball legend. The film features an impressive roster of NBA and WNBA stars (Shaquille O'Neal, Chris Webber, Reggie Miller, Nate Robinson, Lisa Leslie) in old-age makeup. While critically mixed, it was a fan favorite for its comedic premise and nostalgic basketball feel.

11. Conan the Destroyer (1984) - Wilt Chamberlain

Basketball legend Wilt Chamberlain takes on a significant role as Bombaata in this fantasy adventure film. This marks a notable non-basketball acting endeavor for one of the sport's all-time greats, showcasing his imposing physical presence on the big screen in a different genre.

12. Bad Boys (1995) & Bad Boys II (2003) - John Salley

John Salley, a four-time NBA champion, has a memorable recurring role as the eccentric hacker Fletcher in Michael Bay's popular "Bad Boys" action-comedy franchise. His appearances are distinctive and add comedic relief, making him a recognizable face beyond the basketball court.

13. The Fish That Saved Pittsburgh (1979) - Julius Erving

NBA icon Julius Erving stars as the lead character Moses Guthrie, a basketball star on a struggling team, in this quirky sports comedy. This film is a fantastic example of a true NBA legend carrying a movie in a significant acting role, making it a cult favorite among basketball and film enthusiasts.

14. Kazaam (1996) - Shaquille O'Neal

Shaquille O'Neal stars as a 5,000-year-old genie in this fantasy-comedy. While "Kazaam" was widely panned by critics upon its release, it has gained a cult following for its unique premise and Shaq's larger-than-life presence. It's a memorable, if not critically acclaimed, acting venture for the NBA superstar.

15. Like Mike (2002) - Lil' Bow Wow & multiple NBA stars

This family-friendly fantasy film sees a young orphan gain incredible basketball skills after finding magical sneakers. It features numerous cameos from real NBA players of the era, including Allen Iverson, Vince Carter, and Jason Kidd, who interact with the protagonist. While not a critical darling, it was a hit with younger audiences and a fun watch for basketball fans.