Meagan Good, Jabari Banks, and Bailee Madison are joining forces for Rocky Top College, a gritty new sports drama from director Jamal Hill and writer-producer Jarnell Stokes.
Inspired by real-life experiences, Rocky Top College follows Zion Williams, a top-ranked high school basketball phenom from Memphis whose dreams of NBA stardom are derailed after a suspension during his senior year. In a move that stuns the sports world, Zion chooses to enroll at a small college to reclaim his path. But what begins as a shot at redemption quickly spirals into a psychological battle, as Zion is forced to confront strange and unsettling events on campus that threaten to unravel his grip on reality.
The project is deeply personal for former NBA player turned filmmaker Jarnell Stokes, who penned the script and will produce through his Stoked Bros banner.
“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 in a statement to Variety. “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.”
Jamal Hill—who previously directed Brotherly Love and has collaborated with Good before—will helm the project. “The moment Jarnell shared this story with me, I knew it was something special,” Hill said. “Rocky Top College is more than a sports film—it’s a gripping journey of resilience and purpose. We’re exploring the depths of our young hero’s psyche, blending suspense with a unique twist to create an unforgettable experience.”
Production kicks off this month in Louisville, Kentucky.
Good, who also serves as an executive producer, shared her enthusiasm for reuniting with Hill: “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.”
Stokes will produce alongside Emmy-nominated producer Aisha Wynn, Nigel Thomas, and Rick Benattar. Executive producers also include Shondrella Avery, Sean Mik’ael Butler, Patrick Strøm, Isaiah Stokes, and Beth Fryman Poulin of Stoked Sports.