BREAKING NEWS: NETFLIX SET TO RELEASE “THE UNDERDOG”: A HIGHLY ANTICIPATED DOCUMENTARY ABOUT AMERICAN BASKETBALL POINT GUARD RUSSELL WESTBROOK, SLATED FOR RELEASE ON…..

In a groundbreaking announcement that’s set the sports and entertainment world abuzz, Netflix has officially confirmed the upcoming release of “The Underdog,” a powerful and emotional documentary chronicling the life and career of NBA superstar Russell Westbrook. The feature-length documentary is slated to premiere on November 15, 2025, and is already generating major buzz for its raw storytelling, never-before-seen footage, and candid interviews that promise to shed light on one of the most polarizing and passionate players in modern basketball.

A Story of Grit, Determination, and Defiance

“The Underdog” will delve deep into Russell Westbrook’s journey from a humble upbringing in Long Beach, California, to becoming a nine-time NBA All-Star, league MVP, and one of the most electrifying point guards in the history of the sport. Known for his explosive speed, unmatched intensity, and relentless drive, Westbrook has often been celebrated and criticized in equal measure. This documentary seeks to tell his side of the story—warts and all.

“This isn’t just a basketball story,” said executive producer Maverick Carter, of The SpringHill Company. “It’s a human story. Russell is the definition of perseverance. He has faced doubt at every level—college scouts, NBA critics, media narratives—and he’s defied them all. This film shows the man behind the highlights.”

Exclusive Footage and Star-Studded Interviews

Netflix promises an “unfiltered look” into Westbrook’s life, including rare home videos, behind-the-scenes moments from his time with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Washington Wizards, Los Angeles Lakers, and Los Angeles Clippers, as well as personal footage from his childhood, college days at UCLA, and time off the court as a father, husband, and entrepreneur.

The documentary will feature exclusive interviews with Kevin Durant, James Harden, Paul George, LeBron James, Serena Williams, Barack Obama, and members of Westbrook’s family, including his wife Nina Earl. Teammates and coaches will open up about Westbrook’s tenacity, leadership, and sometimes misunderstood personality.

One particularly emotional segment reportedly focuses on Westbrook’s late friend Khelcey Barrs, whose death in high school served as a turning point in Westbrook’s life and motivation.

A Cultural Icon Beyond the Court

Aside from his on-court achievements, “The Underdog” will also explore Westbrook’s impact off the court. From his bold fashion statements and high-end fashion ventures to his philanthropic efforts through the Why Not? Foundation, Westbrook has carved out a unique space in American culture. His commitment to underserved communities, especially in Los Angeles and Oklahoma City, highlights a player who never forgot his roots.

The documentary takes time to explore the racial and social injustices Westbrook has confronted, both as an athlete and a citizen, including his powerful stances during the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests and his work toward educational equity and youth empowerment.

Directed by Acclaimed Filmmaker Ava DuVernay

Perhaps one of the most exciting aspects of the project is its creative team. The documentary is directed by Ava DuVernay, the Oscar-nominated filmmaker behind “Selma” and the Netflix documentary “13th.” Her involvement has heightened anticipation around the project, as DuVernay is known for crafting narratives that challenge perspectives and celebrate resilience.

“Russell is more than a basketball player—he’s a cultural force, a family man, a fighter,” DuVernay said in a press release. “What drew me to this project was the opportunity to tell a story about triumph that’s deeply personal, uniquely American, and universally inspiring.”

A November Premiere to Remember

Netflix confirmed that “The Underdog” will have its global release on November 15, 2025, and will be available in over 190 countries. There are also plans for a limited theatrical release in Los Angeles, New York, and Oklahoma City prior to its streaming debut. Additionally, Westbrook is expected to attend a red-carpet premiere alongside family, former teammates, and NBA dignitaries.

In the run-up to the premiere, Netflix will roll out a marketing campaign featuring sneak peeks, teaser trailers, and a behind-the-scenes mini-series on their social media platforms. The campaign aims to attract not only sports fans, but viewers drawn to stories of personal struggle, triumph, and identity.

Westbrook Breaks His Silence

Shortly after the announcement, Russell Westbrook took to social media to express his feelings about the documentary.

“This journey has been anything but easy. People think they know me, but they’ve only seen part of the story. This film shows everything—the wins, the losses, the pain, the joy. I hope it inspires the next kid coming from where I came from. Thank you to everyone who believed in me. #WhyNot”

Anticipation Building Across the NBA and Entertainment World

Fans, teammates, celebrities, and NBA insiders have already begun expressing excitement over the release. Sports analysts have pointed out that Westbrook’s story, filled with dramatic highs and lows, is tailor-made for documentary treatment. Whether you admire his triple-double records or question his playing style, there is no denying Westbrook’s impact on the game and culture.

Veteran sports journalist Stephen A. Smith remarked during a Monday morning ESPN segment, “Say what you want about Russell Westbrook, but the man is a warrior. He plays every game like it’s his last. This documentary is going to remind people just how special and misunderstood he really is.”

Final Thoughts

As the countdown to November 15 begins, “The Underdog” stands to become one of the most watched and talked-about sports documentaries of the year. With a powerhouse creative team, deep emotional storytelling, and an uncompromising look at one of the NBA’s fiercest competitors, Netflix appears poised to once again dominate the genre of sports storytelling.

In a media landscape full of highlight reels and hot takes, “The Underdog” promises to show us the whole Russell Westbrook—the father, the fighter, the icon, and above all, the human being behind the legend.