Semi-Pro

In the flamboyant world of 1976’s American Basketball Association, a league defined by its neon‑lit courts, outrageous promotions, and a carefree swagger, a once‑hit‑song singer decides to trade his microphone for a basketball. Jackie Moon—charismatic, confident, and undeniably larger‑than‑life—has turned his brief pop‑star fame into the purchase of the Flint Tropics, a franchise teetering on the brink of extinction. With the ABA’s wild‑west atmosphere surrounding him, he instantly assumes the roles of owner, head coach, and starting power forward, an ambitious juggling act that sets the tone for a comedy‑driven underdog tale.

The Tropics sit in a struggling Michigan town, haunted by dwindling attendance and the looming specter of dissolution. Yet the league’s chaotic spirit—where slam‑dunks are as theatrical as the halftime shows—offers Jackie an unlikely playground for his unorthodox brand of leadership. He surrounds himself with a ragtag group of players, each as eccentric as the sport itself, and leans on his flamboyant flair to rally a skeptical fan base. The atmosphere bubbles with retro music, colorful costumes, and a sense that anything can happen on the hardwood, inviting audiences to cheer for optimism dressed in absurdity.

Amid this feverish backdrop, a former backup point guard from the NBA, Ed Monix, appears, bringing a touch of seasoned basketball intellect to the mix. Together they embody a clash of showmanship and genuine sport, promising a journey where personal dreams, team loyalty, and the sheer joy of the game intersect. As the Tropics scramble to prove they belong, the film teases a vibrant, feel‑good adventure that celebrates audacious ambition and the promise that, in the right moment, the underdog can shine brighter than the spotlight itself.

Last Updated: August 10, 2025 at 09:21