Swagger is an honest look at Youth Basketball

by Kathia Woods

Swagger is a sports drama currently streaming on Apple Tv +. It focuses on the world of youth basketball. The series is inspired by NBA star Kevin Durant who also serves executive producer. He along with Reggie Rock Bythewood conceived the basketball saga.  

There are ten episodes in the series. The main character, Jace Carson (Isaiah Hill), is a 14-year-old basketball phenom who everyone is talking about. He's gaining national attention, but he still has a long road ahead of him. He, like many other young basketball players aspiring to greatness, needs a mentor. One who is willing to aid him in basketball as well as in life. Ike "Icon" Edwards (O'Shea Jackson Jr.) appears. 

What makes Swagger so intriguing is that it is more than a collection of cliches; rather, it depicts the hurdles one must overcome in order to reach that high level of competition. Everyone wants something from Jace, but only a small number of people think of him as a person. Being a brilliant basketball player, however, does not shield him from the dangers of the outside world. 

Unlike many sports dramas, this one is well-acted and executed, which is not always the case with them. Coach Edwards regards his players as individuals, rather than as commodities. He's also not afraid to tell them the unpleasant facts without being disrespectful of them. When they get a question about music trivia wrong, he has an entertaining method of making them run laps around the track. Discipline combined with laughter. 

Unfortunately, as is true of many in the sports world, there are many people who are only interested in getting ahead for themselves and not in developing children. We are aware of the negative aspects and difficulties. We see how his mother goes to great lengths to ensure that her child does not become another statistic. 

It is imperative that this show has a second season so that we can continue to follow Jace and his companions on their quest. Great characters, interesting storylines, and excellent performances are all present and accounted for. As with its other Apple Shows, it is hoped that the show's viewership will expand organically; however, this cannot happen if the show is not given a fair opportunity to grow and be seen.  

Swagger is currently streaming on Apple Tv +