In an exciting announcement that has basketball fans and sports enthusiasts buzzing, Netflix has confirmed the upcoming release of a highly anticipated documentary, “The Underdog,” which will chronicle the legendary career of Dallas Mavericks icon Dirk Nowitzki. The documentary, slated for release on June 12, 2025, will coincide with the 20th anniversary of Nowitzki’s unforgettable 2011 NBA Championship victory with the Mavericks.Nowitzki, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest international players to ever grace the NBA, will take viewers on a journey through his remarkable career — from his humble beginnings in Germany to becoming the face of the Mavericks franchise and leading them to a historic NBA title. With never-before-seen footage and in-depth interviews, the documentary will provide an intimate look into Nowitzki’s rise, challenges, triumphs, and enduring legacy.
“It’s hard to believe it’s been 20 years since that championship win,” Nowitzki said in a statement. “The journey was never easy, but it was always worth it. I’m excited for fans to see a side of my story they’ve never seen before. This film is about perseverance, belief, and staying true to yourself—no matter the odds.”
The documentary will delve into pivotal moments from Nowitzki’s career, including his early days as a young foreign prospect, his struggles to fit in, and his eventual rise to NBA superstardom. Fans can expect candid reflections from Nowitzki himself, his teammates, coaches, and some of the greatest basketball minds, all of whom contributed to the incredible journey that led to the Mavericks’ first and only NBA championship in 2011.
Director Jason Bellamy, known for his work on several critically acclaimed sports documentaries, is behind the project. Bellamy promises that the film will not just focus on the on-court success but also explore Nowitzki’s impact on the global game, his unique style of leadership, and his role as an ambassador for the sport.
“Dirk is a true underdog story, and that’s what makes him so special,” said Bellamy. “This isn’t just a documentary about basketball; it’s a story about what it means to work hard, face adversity, and overcome personal and professional hurdles to achieve greatness.”
The documentary will also cover the Mavericks’ incredible playoff run in 2011, where Nowitzki led the team to victory over the heavily favored Miami Heat, capturing the Finals MVP and cementing his place in NBA history. The series of emotional highs and lows from that playoff journey, including Nowitzki’s iconic performances, will be a key focal point of “The Underdog.”
In addition to the film’s release, Netflix will host a special interactive fan event on June 12, where fans will have the chance to watch the documentary, hear from Nowitzki and the filmmakers in a live Q&A session, and participate in exclusive behind-the-scenes content.
The film has already generated significant buzz, with basketball fans and sports analysts eagerly awaiting its release. The combination of Nowitzki’s extraordinary career and the 2011 championship — which remains one of the most memorable in NBA history — makes “The Underdog” one of the most highly anticipated sports documentaries of the year.