Netflix Releases “The Underdog,” a Highly Anticipated Documentary About Indiana Hoosiers Legend Quinn Buckner, Slated for Release on the..
Netflix has officially unveiled its latest original sports documentary, *“The Underdog,”* a compelling and deeply personal portrait of basketball legend Quinn Buckner. The film, which has been generating buzz in both sports and entertainment circles for months, is now slated for release on June 14, 2025. Directed by Emmy-winning filmmaker Lauren Whitaker, *“The Underdog”* promises to offer an intimate and unfiltered look into the life of one of college basketball’s most accomplished — yet often underappreciated — figures.
Quinn Buckner’s name is etched in the annals of Indiana Hoosiers history, having captained the 1975–76 team to an undefeated season and NCAA Championship under legendary coach Bob Knight — a feat no men’s team has matched since. Yet, as the documentary’s title suggests, Buckner’s story is not just one of glory, but of grit, resolve, and quiet leadership that often flew under the radar.
Through rare archival footage, behind-the-scenes access, and interviews with former teammates, coaches, journalists, and family members, *“The Underdog”* paints a portrait of a man who became a symbol of resilience and teamwork in an era often dominated by flashier names. The film explores Buckner’s early days growing up in Illinois, his multi-sport excellence in high school, and his decision to pursue basketball at Indiana University, where he would become a four-year starter and the heart of a dynasty.
The documentary doesn’t stop with college. Buckner’s transition to the NBA — where he played for the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Indiana Pacers — is explored with fresh insight. Though never a statistical juggernaut, Buckner’s cerebral approach to the game and his leadership on and off the court earned him deep respect from teammates and coaches alike. His 1984 NBA Championship with the Celtics is presented not just as a crowning achievement, but as a validation of a career built on teamwork and integrity.
What sets *“The Underdog”* apart, however, is its focus on Buckner’s life after basketball. The film takes a candid look at his tenure as a broadcaster, executive, and longtime advocate for education and youth development. Interviews with colleagues from the Pacers organization, where Buckner has held leadership roles for decades, reveal his continued influence on the game and his community. Moments with his family also reveal a softer, more personal side of the man fans saw on television or in the huddle.
“This is a story we felt needed to be told,” said director Lauren Whitaker in a statement. “Quinn Buckner is a champion in every sense of the word, but he did it his way — without ego, without drama. That’s rare, and it’s powerful.”
The documentary also features exclusive interviews with basketball icons including Isiah Thomas, Larry Bird, and Magic Johnson, as well as former Indiana coach Mike Woodson and even Bob Knight’s family. Their reflections serve not only to underscore Buckner’s impact but to contextualize a period in basketball history that defined the sport’s modern identity.
Netflix’s announcement of the film’s release was met with an enthusiastic response across social media, with Indiana Hoosiers fans in particular rallying around what many are calling a long-overdue tribute. The streaming giant has found success with recent sports documentaries such as *“The Last Dance”* and *“Untold,”* and early indications suggest *“The Underdog”* may follow in their footsteps as a critical and commercial hit.
With its release just weeks away, Netflix is expected to ramp up its promotional campaign with a limited theatrical screening in Indianapolis, where Buckner remains a beloved figure, followed by panel discussions and Q&A events in select cities.
*“The Underdog”* will be available to stream globally on Netflix starting June 14. For basketball purists, history buffs, and anyone who believes in the power of quiet leadership, this film promises to be essential viewing.