‘Sweetwater’ Trailer: The Story About Trailblazing Basketball Player Nat Clifton Hits Theaters On April 14

Nat “Sweetwater” Clifton wasn’t the first African American basketball player to sign an NBA contract, but he was the first to sign one and go on to play professionally. Without him, the sport wouldn’t be what it is today. Now, it’s time for movie audiences to take in his story.

READ MORE: The 100 Most Anticipated Films Of 2023

“Sweetwater” charts Clifton’s life and career from his Arkansas youth, his time fighting in Europe during World War II, and brief stints with the Harlem Globetrotters and Negro League baseball before signing with New York Knicks in 1950. Clifton’s first game with the Knicks came four days after Earl Lloyd debuted with the Washington Capitals, making him the second African American to play in the league and opening the door for future generations of Black basketball players.

Everett Osborne stars as Clifton in “Sweetwater.” The film also stars Cary Elwes, Jeremy Piven, Richard Dreyfuss, and Kevin Pollak.  Eric Roberts, Robert Ri’chard, Mike Starr, and Jim Meskimen round out the main cast.

“Paradise Cove” director Martin Guigui helms “Sweetwater.” He also pens the film’s script.

Check out a trailer for “Sweetwater” below. The film hits US theaters on April 14.