Netflix to Release “Broken Backfield” — Mike Budenholzer’s Untold Story of Pain, Purpose, and Redemption
Los Angeles, CA – Netflix has just dropped a bombshell announcement that has both Los Angeles and Milwaukee sports fans in a frenzy. The streaming giant is set to premiere a gripping new original documentary titled “Broken Backfield: The Mike Budenholzer Story,” offering a raw, unfiltered look into the life of one of basketball’s most enigmatic and misunderstood figures.
Scheduled for a global release later this year, Broken Backfield delves deep into the untold story of Mike Budenholzer, the former University of South Carolina Gamecocks legend and NBA championship-winning head coach, chronicling his meteoric rise, personal tragedies, and the emotional toll of the game he dedicated his life to.
A Story Beyond the Court
While many recognize Budenholzer for his analytical coaching mind and the 2021 NBA title he delivered to Milwaukee, Broken Backfield shines a light on the man behind the clipboard. The documentary explores formative years in Arizona, his playing days with the Gamecocks, and the grueling path he carved through the NBA ranks. But at its heart, the film is about loss, purpose, and resilience.
Through never-before-seen footage, personal interviews with players, family members, and Budenholzer himself, viewers will witness the immense personal sacrifices he made while battling professional scrutiny and personal heartbreak—including the tragic loss of his brother during the 2023 playoffs, a moment that deeply impacted his career and life.
Redemption in the Shadows
Directed by Emmy-winning documentarian Rachel Morrison (Mudbound, Fruitvale Station), Broken Backfield is poised to join the ranks of Netflix’s most powerful sports documentaries. It’s more than just a basketball story—it’s a portrait of perseverance in the face of overwhelming odds.
The film doesn’t shy away from controversy, including the highs and lows of Budenholzer’s tenure with the Atlanta Hawks and Milwaukee Bucks, and the media pressure that followed every decision he made. But it also highlights his quiet acts of mentorship, his devotion to family, and the internal battles few ever saw.
A Must-Watch for Sports and Storytelling Fans Alike
“Mike Budenholzer’s journey is a testament to resilience,” said Netflix’s VP of Documentaries, Erin Carter. “Broken Backfield offers an intimate, emotional exploration of what it means to lead under pressure and to keep going even when everything feels lost.”
With its powerful narrative arc, stunning cinematography, and emotional depth, Broken Backfield promises to be a must-watch not only for basketball enthusiasts but for anyone drawn to stories of pain, perseverance, and human redemption.
Broken Backfield premieres globally on Netflix this fall.
