In a significant development for women’s basketball, ESPN has announced the upcoming release of “Full Court Press,” a four-part docuseries that provides an in-depth look into the lives and careers of three of the sport’s most prominent collegiate athletes: Caitlin Clark of the University of Iowa, Kamilla Cardoso of the University of South Carolina, and Kiki Rice of the University of California, Los Angeles. The series is set to premiere on May 11 and 12, 2024, on ABC, with subsequent availability on ESPN+.
A Collaborative Effort
“Full Court Press” is a collaborative production between ESPN+, Peyton Manning’s Omaha Productions, and Words & Pictures. The series is directed by Kristen Lappas, known for her compelling storytelling in sports documentaries. Peyton Manning, reflecting on the project, stated, “I remember what it meant to the University of Tennessee and the entire state when Pat Summitt led the Lady Vols to back-to-back national titles during my time in Knoxville. We’re excited to share the stories of these three amazing women to a national audience at this incredible moment for women’s basketball.”
Spotlight on Caitlin Clark
Caitlin Clark, the senior guard for the Iowa Hawkeyes, has been a transformative figure in women’s basketball. In her final collegiate season, Clark shattered numerous records, becoming the all-time leading scorer in NCAA women’s basketball history. She surpassed Kelsey Plum’s record to become the all-time women’s NCAA Division I scoring leader, passed AIAW legend Lynette Woodard for the major college scoring record, and eclipsed LSU legend Pete Maravich for most career points in Division I history for both men and women.
Clark’s journey is marked by her exceptional skill, leadership, and competitive spirit. She has led the Hawkeyes to consecutive NCAA tournament appearances, aiming to secure a national championship in her final year. Her dynamic playing style and scoring ability have garnered national attention, making her a focal point of this documentary series.
Kamilla Cardoso’s Rise
Kamilla Cardoso, the senior center for the South Carolina Gamecocks, stepped into a starting role in her final season, filling the shoes of former national player of the year Aliyah Boston. Cardoso led the team to an undefeated regular season and made a memorable impact by hitting her first career three-pointer to send South Carolina to the SEC Championship. Her journey from Montes Claros, Brazil, to collegiate stardom in the United States, including her time with the Brazilian national team, adds a rich narrative to the series.
Kiki Rice’s Emerging Stardom
As a sophomore guard for the UCLA Bruins, Kiki Rice has quickly established herself as a rising star in women’s basketball. Notably, she became the first college athlete, male or female, to secure a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal with the Jordan Brand. Rice’s experiences navigating the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics, along with her contributions to UCLA’s pursuit of a Final Four appearance, provide a compelling storyline within the docuseries.
Behind the Scenes and Beyond the Court
“Full Court Press” offers unparalleled behind-the-scenes access, capturing key moments from the 2023-24 season. The series transports audiences from Iowa’s historic preseason game that broke attendance records to sold-out arenas across the country. It delves into the personal and professional lives of these athletes, showcasing their dedication, challenges, and triumphs both on and off the court.
Director Kristen Lappas emphasized the significance of this project, stating, “As someone who has grown up a devout fan of the women’s game, I am thrilled that we are able to make this show at this pivotal moment in the history of the sport. To be able to pull back the curtain and document Caitlin Clark’s historic season has been a privilege for our entire team.”
Release Schedule
The docuseries is scheduled to air as follows:
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Saturday, May 11, 2024: Episodes 1 & 2 at 1 p.m. ET on ABC
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Sunday, May 12, 2024: Episodes 3 & 4 at 12:30 p.m. ET on ABC
Following their initial broadcast, all episodes will be available for streaming on ESPN+.
A Tribute in Print
In addition to the docuseries, ESPN has produced a 96-page special edition magazine dedicated to Caitlin Clark. Released on March 29, 2024, this publication celebrates Clark’s remarkable journey and her impact on the sport. The magazine features stories from esteemed ESPN journalists and analysts, offering a comprehensive look at one of the greatest collegiate players of all time.
A Pivotal Moment for Women’s Basketball
The release of “Full Court Press” comes at a time when women’s basketball is experiencing unprecedented growth in popularity and viewership. The series aims to capture this unique moment, providing fans with an intimate look at the lives of three athletes who are not only shaping the future of the sport but also inspiring the next generation of players.
As the anticipation builds, “Full Court Press” promises to be a landmark series that celebrates the achievements of Clark, Cardoso, and Rice, while highlighting the broader evolution and excitement surrounding women’s basketball today.
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