Excitement Hits TD Garden as Netflix Releases “The Underdog,” a Highly Anticipated Documentary About Boston Celtics, A Deep Dive into Basketball History, Slated for Release on..
A wave of excitement is washing over New England and the global basketball community as Netflix officially announces the upcoming release of *“The Underdog”*, a documentary chronicling the Boston Celtics’ storied past, dramatic transformations, and cultural significance in the world of professional basketball. Slated for release on **June 16, 2025**, the film promises to be an emotional, comprehensive, and revelatory deep dive into the journey of one of the NBA’s most iconic franchises.
With a history spanning over seven decades, the Boston Celtics are not just a team—they’re a legacy. From the glory years under legendary coach Red Auerbach and the dynasty of Bill Russell to the electric eras of Larry Bird, Paul Pierce, and now Jayson Tatum, *“The Underdog”* captures the emotional highs and lows that have defined the franchise. Filmed over the course of two years, the documentary combines rare archival footage, exclusive interviews with current and former players, and behind-the-scenes access to the team’s inner sanctum: TD Garden.
### A Legacy Reframed
While many documentaries have covered NBA history, *“The Underdog”* distinguishes itself by focusing on the emotional narrative behind the Celtics’ journey. It explores how the team, despite being the most decorated in terms of championships for decades, has often played the role of the underdog—scrappy, doubted, but always resilient.
Executive producer and longtime Celtics fan Matt Damon, who collaborated with Netflix and director Ava DuVernay, describes the documentary as “a love letter to the spirit of Boston.” He explains, “This isn’t just about wins or titles. It’s about the heart of a city and the players who became heroes by embracing that identity.”
The film also features interviews with basketball legends including Larry Bird, Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen, Paul Pierce, and even rival icons such as Magic Johnson and LeBron James, providing a 360-degree view of how the Celtics have shaped, and been shaped by, the league.
### TD Garden Premiere
In a fitting tribute to the city that birthed this basketball juggernaut, *“The Underdog”* will premiere at **TD Garden** just days before its global Netflix release. The red-carpet event is expected to draw sports legends, local celebrities, and thousands of Celtics fans. The Garden, already steeped in history, will transform into a cinema for one unforgettable night.
A portion of the event’s proceeds will benefit Boston youth programs, further anchoring the team’s role as not just a sports franchise but a community pillar.
### Themes of Resilience and Transformation
*“The Underdog”* doesn’t shy away from the difficult moments in Celtics history. From the tragic deaths of Reggie Lewis and Len Bias to the rebuilding years after the departure of cornerstone stars, the film sheds light on how the organization and its fan base have endured pain and setbacks—emerging stronger each time.
One of the film’s most poignant segments is devoted to the “Ubuntu Era,” the cultural ethos introduced by coach Doc Rivers during the 2008 championship season. “Ubuntu”—a Nguni Bantu term meaning “I am because we are”—became the soul of the team and is captured with intimate footage and emotional reflections from players and staff.
### A Cultural Conversation
Beyond sports, *“The Underdog”* delves into the Celtics’ place in American culture. The documentary addresses issues of race, identity, and social justice through the lens of Celtics players who used their platforms for advocacy, from Bill Russell’s civil rights activism in the 1960s to Jaylen Brown’s outspoken stance on modern social issues.
Cultural critics, journalists, and historians weigh in throughout the film, offering insights into how the team has reflected—and at times challenged—the prevailing narratives of American society.
### The Countdown Begins
As the June 16 release date approaches, anticipation is reaching fever pitch. Social media is already buzzing with teasers, quotes, and nostalgic tributes. Celtics Nation is ready to relive the past and reflect on the journey that continues to unfold with every game at the Garden.
For both diehard fans and those new to the Celtics story, *“The Underdog”* promises a moving, exhilarating, and unforgettable viewing experience. More than a sports documentary, it’s a tribute to perseverance, legacy, and the unbreakable bond between a city and its team.
Mark your calendars. On **June 16**, the world will see what it truly means to be green.