Jump Shot: The Kenny Sailors Story

From the creative mind of Executive Producer Stephen Curry, the compelling documentary JUMP SHOT narrates the remarkable journey of Kenny Sailors, a remarkable yet overlooked figure in basketball history. This film reveals how Sailors not only introduced the transformative jump shot technique but also earned accolades such as being a 2-time collegiate All-American and an NBA pioneer. Beyond the basketball court, he served valiantly as a US Marine during World War II, yet, post-war, he faded quietly into the background of history.

In a pivotal moment during the 1943 NCAA Basketball Championships held at Madison Square Garden, spectators were treated to an unprecedented athletic display—the “leaping one-hander,” now celebrated as the jump shot. This innovative move would go on to change the dynamics of basketball, propelling the University of Wyoming’s unheralded team to victory and markedly influencing the game forever.

JUMP SHOT not only chronicles the achievements of Kenny Sailors but also examines his profound contribution to the evolution of basketball, all while highlighting his firm commitment to his principles and loved ones. When the National Basketball Association (NBA), an emerging league at the time, sought Sailors’ expertise, he courageously brought the jump shot into the professional realm. However, after a few impactful years, he chose to retreat into the solitude of the Alaskan wilderness, disappearing from basketball lore.

Through this film, we encounter a rich tapestry of voices including basketball icons like Kevin Durant and Dirk Nowitzki, as well as ordinary individuals whose lives were influenced by Sailors’ legacy. We explore the multifaceted life of Kenny—an NCAA Tournament MVP, a trailblazing architect of basketball innovation, a humble cowboy, a dedicated family man, and an unwavering community leader.

JUMP SHOT is not merely about a technical basketball maneuver; it encapsulates the essence of an American tale that is both stirring and unforgettable. Join us on this inspiring voyage through the life of Kenny Sailors, the visionary behind the jump shot, as we delve into his journey from a collegiate star to a forgotten hero in the Alaska wilderness. Sixty years later, he is finally recognized by a chorus of admirers, advocating for his rightful place in the Naismith Hall of Fame alongside legends like Bob Knight and Lou Carnesecca, and shedding light on the lasting impact he made on the sport, his country, and the many lives he touched.

Last Updated: May 12, 2025 at 07:04