30 for 30
Overview
30 for 30 presents a compelling collection of documentary films from ESPN, focusing on captivating figures and pivotal moments in sports history. The franchise comprises four distinct volumes, each featuring 30 episodes, along with a 13-episode series aired under ESPN Films Presents between 2011 and 2012. Additionally, the project includes 30 for 30 Shorts available on ESPN.com and expanded into Soccer Stories leading up to the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Alongside these visual narratives, the series has also embraced audio podcasts, enriching its storytelling approach.
Episodes
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1
King's Ransom
In 1988, Wayne Gretzky's transfer from the Edmonton Oilers to the Los Angeles Kings sent shockwaves through the hockey world. This monumental move dee...
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2
The Band That Wouldn't Die
Exploring Baltimore's deep-rooted passion for football and its connection to the Colts, this narrative highlights the Colts Marching Band. When the Co...
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3
Small Potatoes: Who Killed the USFL?
This documentary takes viewers through the rise and fall of the United States Football League in the mid-1980s, featuring new interviews and historic ...
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4
Muhammad and Larry
This episode explores the October 1980 bout between Muhammad Ali and Larry Holmes, examining how the match affected both boxers' careers. It includes ...
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5
Without Bias
Len Bias tragically died from a cocaine-related heart attack just two days after being chosen as the second overall pick in the 1986 NBA draft by Bost...
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6
The Legend of Jimmy the Greek
Jimmy "the Greek" Snyder's journey unfolds as he transitions from a successful bookmaker in Las Vegas to a prominent figure on The NFL Today. His char...
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7
The U
The 1980s marked a significant transformation in Miami's racial and cultural landscape, vividly illustrated through the University of Miami football t...
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8
Winning Time: Reggie Miller vs. the New York Knicks
Reggie Miller's influence on the New York Knicks during the 1990s, particularly highlighted by the intense rivalry between the Pacers and Knicks in th...
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9
Guru of Go
During his time as head coach at Loyola Marymount University from 1985 to 1990, Paul Westhead led the Lions with an explosive run-and-gun style of off...
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10
No Crossover: The Trial of Allen Iverson
In 1993, Allen Iverson, a high school athlete from Hampton, Virginia, faced trial after being found guilty for his involvement in a racially charged b...
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11
Silly Little Game
In 1980, at La Rotisserie Francaise in New York City, a gathering of writers and scholars comes together to create Rotisserie Fantasy baseball. To the...
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12
Run Ricky Run
The episode delves into Ricky Williams' short-lived exit from the NFL in 2004, highlighting his quest for self-redemption during a time filled with me...
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13
The 16th Man
The 1995 Rugby World Cup in South Africa marked a significant moment in the nation’s history, as the team’s victory was deeply intertwined with Ne...
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14
Straight Outta L.A.
During the Raiders' 13 seasons in Los Angeles, the team fostered a unique bond with its diverse fan base. The connection was shaped by the vibrant cul...
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15
June 17, 1994
A rapid montage of archival clips showcases the excitement of various U.S. sports events from that day, highlighting the kickoff of the World Cup socc...
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16
The Two Escobars
This episode explores the lives of soccer star Andrés Escobar and notorious drug kingpin Pablo Escobar, delving into how their worlds of crime and so...
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17
The Birth of Big Air
Mat Hoffman’s journey spans 25 years, during which he has significantly pushed the boundaries of BMX riding through innovative creativity and effect...
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18
Jordan Rides the Bus
Inspired by his father's aspirations for him, Michael Jordan steps away from basketball to pursue a short-lived stint in minor league baseball.
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19
Little Big Men
The Kirkland National Little League team’s remarkable journey during the 1982 Little League World Series showcases their unexpected triumph, which i...
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20
One Night in Vegas
Boxer Mike Tyson and rapper Tupac Shakur shared a close friendship, which was tragically marked by the events of September 7, 1996. On that fateful ni...
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21
Unmatched
The episode explores the complex relationship between tennis icons Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova, highlighting both their fierce competition on ...
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22
The House of Steinbrenner
George Steinbrenner's tenure as owner of the New York Yankees left a lasting impact on the franchise. His aggressive management style and relentless p...
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23
Into the Wind
Terry Fox's ambitious journey to run 5,373 kilometers (3,339 miles) across Canada to raise funds for cancer research captivates not only his fellow Ca...
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24
Four Days In October
In the thrilling 2004 ALCS, the Boston Red Sox staged an incredible turnaround against their arch-rivals, the New York Yankees. After falling behind t...
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25
Once Brothers
This is the tale of Dražen Petrović from Croatia and Vlade Divac from Serbia, both NBA players and former teammates on the Yugoslavian national bask...
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26
Tim Richmond: To the Limit
NASCAR driver Tim Richmond was known for his vibrant personality and extravagant way of life. His career was marked by both impressive victories on th...
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27
Fernando Nation
Fernando Valenzuela's debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1981 sparked a wave of excitement and joy among fans. His remarkable pitching skills and u...
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28
Marion Jones: Press Pause
Marion Jones enjoyed a remarkable career in track and field, earning numerous accolades and recognition for her achievements. However, in 2007, she pu...
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29
The Best that Never Was
In 1981, high school football sensation Marcus Dupree attracted the attention of several prominent college programs. However, his college and professi...
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30
Pony Excess
The story chronicles the tumultuous journey of the SMU Mustangs football program, which faced a one-year "death penalty" due to serious violations aft...
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1
Broke
The episode delves into the journey of athletes seeking wealth through sports, highlighting the unexpected turns that can lead to financial struggles ...
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2
9.79*
The 1988 Summer Olympics showcased the Men's 100-meter final, featuring eight athletes who would forever be linked to this historic race. Among them w...
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3
There's No Place Like Home
This episode follows a devoted fan's relentless journey to acquire James Naismith's original basketball rules at a 2010 auction. Recognized as a pivot...
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4
Benji
Ben Wilson, a celebrated high school basketball player in Chicago, had his promising life cut short when he was murdered in November 1984, just one da...
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5
Ghosts of Ole Miss
Wright Thompson, hailing from Mississippi, delves into the chaotic events of 1962, a time when the University of Mississippi's campus was marked by cl...
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6
You Don't Know Bo
This episode delves into the remarkable journey of Bo Jackson, highlighting his extraordinary accomplishments in both baseball and football during his...
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7
Survive and Advance
This episode explores the remarkable and unexpected championship journeys of the NC State Wolfpack men's basketball team during the 1983 ACC and NCAA ...
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8
Elway to Marino
The episode delves into the 1983 NFL Draft, focusing on the six quarterbacks chosen in the first round, particularly John Elway, the number one pick, ...
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9
Hawaiian: The Legend of Eddie Aikau
This episode explores the journey of Eddie Aikau, a legendary big wave surfer and dedicated lifeguard. His untimely death became a powerful catalyst, ...
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10
Free Spirits
This episode delves into the vibrant personalities behind the Spirits of St. Louis, a team from the American Basketball Association. As the ABA prepar...
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11
No Mas
This episode delves into the iconic boxing rivalry of the 1980s between Sugar Ray Leonard and Roberto Durán, featuring candid reflections from boxing...
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12
Big Shot
In 1996, aspiring entrepreneur John Spano made headlines by securing a deal to buy the New York Islanders. However, as the story unfolded, it became c...
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13
This is What They Want
At the age of 39, Jimmy Connors embarked on an astonishing journey during the 1991 US Open. Entering the tournament as a wildcard, he defied expectati...
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14
Bernie and Ernie
This episode highlights the enduring bond between Bernard King and Ernie Grunfeld, showcasing their friendship that has spanned decades. It delves int...
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15
Youngstown Boys
This episode delves into the intertwined journeys of Maurice Clarett, a Youngstown native and standout running back, and Jim Tressel, the former head ...
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16
The Price of Gold
In a shocking event during the U.S. Figure Skating Championships on January 6, 1994, Nancy Kerrigan is attacked by an unknown assailant. The incident ...
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17
Requiem for the Big East
This episode reflects on the original Big East Conference, tracing its journey from modest origins and local rivalries to becoming a powerhouse in col...
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18
Bad Boys
This episode takes a nostalgic journey through the Detroit Pistons' glory days in the late 1980s and early 1990s, featuring insights from Kid Rock, a ...
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19
Slaying the Badger
This episode delves into the fierce rivalry between teammates Greg LeMond and Bernard Hinault during the 1986 Tour de France, showcasing the intense d...
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20
Playing for the Mob
Henry Hill, an associate of the Mafia, cleverly devised a point-shaving scheme that targeted Boston College basketball. The story unfolds with Ray Lio...
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21
The Day the Series Stopped
This year marks 25 years since the Loma Prieta earthquake hit just moments before Game 3 of the 1989 World Series was set to begin. The tremor not onl...
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22
When the Garden Was Eden
The episode takes a nostalgic journey through the New York Knicks' championship squads from the 1970s, highlighting their remarkable achievements and ...
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23
Brian and The Boz
Brian Bosworth, a former linebacker, opens up a storage locker for his son Max, revealing a collection of memorabilia from his college days and short ...
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24
Brothers in Exile
Liván and Orlando Hernández, two half-brothers from Cuba, each made their way to freedom in different ways before carving out impressive careers as ...
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25
Rand University
This episode delves into the early life of former NFL wide receiver Randy Moss, highlighting his modest beginnings in Rand, West Virginia. It captures...
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26
The U Part 2
In this follow-up to The U, the focus shifts to the Miami Hurricanes football team, chronicling its journey from the depths of scandal and public pres...
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27
Of Miracles and Men
The story delves into the Miracle on Ice through the lens of the Soviet Union team that faced defeat. It follows defenseman Viacheslav Fetisov as he r...
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28
I Hate Christian Laettner
The episode explores Christian Laettner's journey through basketball, highlighting his time at Duke University and his professional career in the NBA....
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29
Sole Man
Sonny Vaccaro's journey takes him from his humble beginnings in a Pennsylvania steel town to becoming a significant player in the worlds of basketball...
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30
Angry Sky
Nick Piantanida, a pet store owner and truck driver from New Jersey, is passionate about parachuting and skydiving. This enthusiasm drives him on an a...
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1
Trojan War
This episode explores the journey of USC Trojans football under Pete Carroll's leadership in the 2000s, detailing both its remarkable ascent and subse...
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2
The Prince of Pennsylvania
The episode delves into the complex and often strained bond between Olympic wrestlers Mark and Dave Schultz and their unconventional patron, John du P...
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3
The Gospel According to Mac
This episode explores Bill McCartney's unique blend of college football and evangelical Christianity during his time as head coach of the Colorado Buf...
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4
Chasing Tyson
The episode delves into Evander Holyfield's relentless pursuit from 1989 to 1991 and again from 1995 to 1996 to secure his first matchup against Mike ...
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5
Four Falls Of Buffalo
The early 1990s saw the Buffalo Bills rise to prominence as they became the first franchise in history to reach four consecutive Super Bowls, only to ...
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6
The '85 Bears
This episode takes a deep dive into the 1985 Chicago Bears, reflecting on the team's journey over the past 30 years. It explores the process of puttin...
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7
Fantastic Lies
A decade later, the Duke lacrosse case remains a pivotal moment, stemming from a party hosted by the university's men's lacrosse team. This celebratio...
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8
This Magic Moment
The mid-1990s Orlando Magic, featuring stars Shaquille O'Neal and Penny Hardaway, rose to fame not only in the NBA but also in popular culture. Their ...
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9
Believeland
The documentary explores the sports hex that has haunted Cleveland since the Browns last secured a major professional sports title in 1964. Originally...
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10
Doc & Darryl
Dwight "Doc" Gooden and Darryl Strawberry both rose to fame as star players for the New York Mets in the 1980s, dazzling fans with their immense talen...
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11
Phi Slama Jama
This profile looks back at the legendary Houston Cougars men’s basketball teams of the 1980s, led by stars Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler. Their ...
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12
Hit It Hard
From a no-name golfer to a two-time major champion, John Daly's story is one of explosive talent and rapid decline. His raw power and unorthodox style...
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13
Catholics Vs Convicts
In 1988, Notre Dame faced Miami in a football game that became legendary for its intensity and off-field drama. Filmmaker Creadon, then a senior at No...
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14
This Was the XFL
Vince McMahon, the larger-than-life force behind pro wrestling, and Dick Ebersol, the powerful NBC Sports chief and father of Charlie Ebersol, join fo...
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15
One and Not Done
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16
Celtics/Lakers: Best of Enemies - Part 1
This three-part documentary series, which premiered over three consecutive evenings, delves into the fierce rivalry between the Celtics and the Lakers...
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17
Celtics/Lakers: Best of Enemies - Part 2
The intensity of the Celtics-Lakers rivalry reaches new heights during the 1984 Finals, featuring iconic figures like Larry Bird and Magic Johnson, wh...
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18
Celtics/Lakers: Best of Enemies - Part 3
The episode wraps up its exploration of the iconic Celtics-Lakers rivalry from the 1980s, zeroing in on the three years that followed the 1984 NBA Fin...
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19
Mike and the Mad Dog
Mike Francesa and Chris Russo navigated a tumultuous 19-year collaboration on New York City radio, shaping their careers and leaving a lasting impact ...
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20
George Best: All by Himself
George Best, the iconic star from Northern Ireland, is celebrated as one of the most naturally talented soccer players in history. His extraordinary s...
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21
What Carter Lost
In any other year, the 1988 team from Carter High School in Dallas would be remembered as one of the finest in Texas football history, boasting 28 pla...
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22
Year of the Scab
Amid the players' strike in 1987, the Washington Redskins employed a team of replacement players who managed to go 3–0, contributing significantly t...
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23
Tommy
The extraordinary journey of boxer Tommy Morrison, marked by an unexpected ascent to fame followed by a rapid decline. His career was filled with triu...
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24
Nature Boy
The journey of Ric Flair, a legendary figure in professional wrestling, unfolds as we explore his remarkable career and personal experiences. From his...
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25
The Two Bills
This episode delves into the dynamic between NFL coaches Bill Parcells and Bill Belichick, exploring their unique connection and influence on each oth...
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26
The Last Days of Knight
The tumultuous events leading to Indiana University's decision to dismiss coach Bob Knight in 2000 unfold with intense emotion and drama. Knight, know...
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27
Seau
This episode explores the remarkable journey of NFL icon Junior Seau, tracing his roots back to his Samoan immigrant family and following his rise to ...
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28
42 to 1
The story unfolds on February 11, 1990, at the Tokyo Dome, where Buster Douglas delivers a stunning knockout to the previously undefeated Mike Tyson. ...
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29
Deion's Double Play
This episode highlights Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, zooming in on an incredible 24-hour period in 1992. During this time, he managed to ...
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30
The Dominican Dream
Felipe López rises from his roots as the son of Dominican immigrants to shine as a standout basketball player in high school and later at St. John's ...
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31
Qualified
Janet Guthrie confronted doubt, ridicule, and inadequate gear as she made history by becoming the first woman to qualify for the Indianapolis 500. Des...
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32
The Good, The Bad, The Hungry
The episode delves into one of the most intense rivalries in the world of sports, focusing on competitive eaters Takeru Kobayashi and Joey Chestnut. I...
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1
Rodman: For Better or Worse
A candid and comprehensive exploration of Dennis Rodman's life and career.
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2
Chuck & Tito
The tumultuous relationship between MMA fighters Chuck Liddell and Tito Ortiz spans from the inception of the UFC, through its growing fame, and conti...
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3
Vick: Part 1
In the first part of this two-part series, we explore the journey of quarterback Michael Vick, highlighting his remarkable ascent, unexpected decline,...
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4
Vick: Part 2
In the second part of this compelling narrative, the journey of quarterback Michael Vick unfolds, showcasing his remarkable ascent, dramatic downfall,...
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5
Lance: Part 1
The episode dives deep into the tumultuous journey of cyclist Lance Armstrong, who achieved seven consecutive victories in the Tour de France before b...
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6
Lance: Part 2
In the second part of this exploration, the focus shifts to the tumultuous journey of cyclist Lance Armstrong, who achieved an unprecedented seven con...
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7
Be Water
This episode delves into the remarkable journey and enduring influence of Bruce Lee, celebrating his status as a legendary figure in both film and mar...
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8
Long Gone Summer
The episode revisits the thrilling home run race of 1998, focusing on the intense competition between Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa. As both players vie...
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9
The Life and Trials of Oscar Pistorius Part 1
In this first installment of a four-part series, we explore the journey of South African Paralympic sprinter Oscar Pistorius. From his upbringing in t...
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10
The Life and Trials of Oscar Pistorius Part 2
In the second installment of this four-part series, we explore the journey of Oscar Pistorius, a South African Paralympic sprinter. His story begins i...
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11
The Life and Trials of Oscar Pistorius Part 3
In this third installment, we delve into the journey of South African Paralympic runner Oscar Pistorius. His story unfolds from his early years amidst...
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12
The Life and Trials of Oscar Pistorius Part 4
This is the final segment of Oscar Pistorius's journey, tracing his life from his youth in the waning days of apartheid in South Africa to his rise as...
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13
The Infinite Race
The Tarahumara, an indigenous group from Mexico, are renowned for their extraordinary running skills and their inclination to run without shoes. Their...
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14
Al Davis vs. The NFL
Through the use of deepfake technology and footage from NFL Films, a vivid portrayal of the fraught relationship between Raiders owner Al Davis and NF...
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15
Breakaway
Maya Moore, an acclaimed figure in women's basketball, made the bold decision to pause her career to fight for a man she was convinced had been wrongf...
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16
Once Upon a Time in Queens Part 1
An in-depth examination of the 1986 New York Mets.
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17
Once Upon a Time in Queens Part 2
An in-depth examination of the 1986 New York Mets.
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18
Once Upon a Time in Queens Part 3
An in-depth examination of the 1986 New York Mets.
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19
Once Upon a Time in Queens Part 4
An in-depth examination of the 1986 New York Mets.
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20
The Tuck Rule
This episode delves into the contentious "tuck rule" call during the 2001-2002 playoff matchup between the Raiders and the Patriots, a pivotal moment ...
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21
Shark
This documentary explores the iconic journey of professional golfer Greg Norman, highlighting how a remarkable day at the Masters Tournament in 1996 i...
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22
The Greatest Mixtape Ever
The documentary explores the impact of 1990s streetball and the And1 Mixtape on the broader basketball culture. In the late '90s, a rising DJ in New Y...
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23
Dream On (Part 1)
During the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, the USA women's basketball team showcased their prowess by achieving eight victories without a single defeat...
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24
Dream On (Part 2)
During the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, the USA women’s basketball team showcased their prowess by achieving an impressive record of eight victori...
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25
Dream On (Part 3)
During the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, the USA women’s basketball team showcased their prowess, achieving eight victories without a single defeat...
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26
Jeanette Lee Vs.
Jeanette Lee, a renowned Asian-American billiards champion, has captivated pool halls across the globe with her remarkable talent, charisma, and allur...
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27
Bullies of Baltimore
Considered one of the most formidable defensive teams in NFL history, they also became one of the most captivating franchises in the sport. Their pres...
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28
The American Gladiators Documentary Part 1
In the first of a two-part series, the cast and crew of American Gladiators reminisce about the legendary 90s show that matched everyday contestants w...
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29
The American Gladiators Documentary Part 2
In the second part of this retrospective, the cast and crew of American Gladiators reflect on the legendary 90s show that brought together everyday co...
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30
The Luckiest Guy in the World: Part 1
This multi-part film explores the vibrant journey of basketball Hall of Famer Bill Walton, who is also an ardent fan of the Grateful Dead. It delves i...
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31
The Luckiest Guy in the World: Part 2
Bill played a crucial role in UCLA's remarkable 88-game winning streak, and when that streak came to an end, it hit him hard. Although he faced injuri...
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32
The Luckiest Guy in the World: Part 3
Bill Walton was performing at his peak with the Blazers, showcasing skills that would ultimately secure him an MVP award, all while facing off against...
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33
The Luckiest Guy in the World: Part 4
Bill faced a difficult choice when deciding to part ways with the Trail Blazers. After an unsuccessful run with the Clippers, he found himself teaming...
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34
The Great Heisman Race of 1997
This episode delves into the legendary 1997 Heisman Trophy competition, showcasing the remarkable athletes who competed for the prestigious title of t...
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35
The Minister of Defense
This episode paints a compelling picture of the iconic NFL defensive lineman, Reggie White, a man dedicated to "doing right." Throughout his life, he ...
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36
I'm Just Here for the Riot
On June 15, 2011, the Vancouver Canucks suffer a heartbreaking defeat in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals against the Boston Bruins, igniting a widesp...
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37
False Positive
Butch Reynolds was a leading figure in the world of track and field, shining brightly at the peak of his career. However, everything changed for him d...
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38
No Scope: The Story of FaZe Clan
The story of FaZe Clan traces the evolution of a Call of Duty clan into a prominent esports organization, highlighting the various challenges and dram...
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39
American Son
This episode highlights Michael Chang, a Taiwanese-American tennis player, focusing on his remarkable victory at the 1989 French Open. The spotlight i...
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40
Dude Perfect: A very long shot
This episode explores the journey of content creators Dude Perfect, highlighting their remarkable ascent in the world of sports-themed entertainment a...
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41
Stolen Gold
Ramón Torres faces a shocking betrayal from his time leading the Spanish basketball ID team at the 2000 Summer Paralympics. It comes to light that se...
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42
The New York Sack Exchange
This episode takes a trip down memory lane to revisit the iconic defensive line of the 1980s New York Jets. Known for their larger-than-life character...
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43
Empire Skate
The episode explores the unique skateboarding culture of 1990s New York City, highlighting how it gave rise to the iconic brand Supreme. This era not ...
