*
Bella Ramos here,
live from Jackson High School
home of The Generals basketball team,
the reigning state champs
for the last six consecutive years
and the #1 ranked high school basketball team
by both "USA Today" and "Sports Illustrated".
I'm standing here With the man
that's made it all possible:
Generals Head Coach Niven Banks
who's fondly known around town as
The General amongst Generals.
Coach, is it true what we hear,
that you have secured senior sensation
Justice "The Judge" McCoy?
It's absolutely true, Bella.
Why don't we see what "The Judge" can do.
Securing "The Judge" is kind of like
winning the lottery...
how did you convince him to leave
Booker T. Washington High School,
your most formidable opponent
and in his senior year no less?
Bella, a general never tells his secrets.
Ha ha ha ha... Whatever the secret is
it looks like you have probably ensured
a seventh state win and a spot in the
history books as the most winningest
high school coach in Miami's history.
Coach, is there any truth to the rumor
that you're being courted by the NCAA?
No, no. I'm happy where I am.
Go Generals.
Well, that's all the time that we have.
Coach, good luck on the next season
even though it looks like you won't need it.
Thanks Bella.
It's my business to uncover
any and all secrets
especially the unethical ones.
You have a good day now.
You too, Bella.
Thought Bella had you, man!
When it comes to dirt,
that woman's got a nose like Pinocchio.
You can't be slick to a can of oil.
I don't care what kind of reporter you are.
Speaking about slick...
Justice McCoy!
Whew! That boy good! Ha ha!
And his athleticism... It's too nice.
It's gonna be a hell of a season.
We got so many weapons.
All we gotta do is play our cards close
til the season ends.
And then it's off to the NCAA.
Justice!
Ooh, Justice and his beautiful mother!
Hi.
We were just talking about you all.
Really? What exactly were you saying?
Uh, you know me. This is my
Assistant Coach, Maurice Mitchell.
Folks just call me Coach Reesie.
Okay Reesie.
We wanted you to come in early so we could
tell you how we like to do things here.
Hm, no.
How about I tell you how I like to do things.
Now granted, you have done very well for
yourself up until now, but everybody knows
that old plays don't support new blood,
if you know what I mean.
For example...
Let's see here.
Alright, you always like to do the double screen
for Ick and then kick it out to The Train
for the three.
Well, what about instead
Train drops down to the corner...
Now notice how the left scene is wide open
for Justice to dribble-penetrate.
Then Ick can set a back screen
and then Rasheed can rotate out on top.
After Justice makes the move he can
kick it out to Ick for the three-point shot
which is of course a shot that
we all know that Ick can make.
I have more plays of course.
No, no, no. Thank you.
I'm sorry, but do you coach?
Because if you did, you'd know
there's nothing wrong with my plays.
There's everything wrong with your plays.
I beg to differ...
Six state championships.
With the same tired plays.
My son could have stayed in the same place
if he'd wanted to remain stagnant.
He wants to win a championship
but he also needs to show off his talent.
Which means you're gonna have to get
a little more creative.
I'm sorry, I have to get to work.
It was very nice to meet you.
We can always discuss this later.
Really nice meeting you again.
Justice, let's get going.
Alright, Coach Banks.
Good seeing you.
Reesie.
Good to see you, son.
See you after practice.
We're gonna have a great season but remember this:
in my army and on my court
The General overrules all.
Especially well meaning mamas and daddies.
(sighs)
Whew! They said she was a handful.
-I can handle her.
*
This is my new book.
"How To Train Your Man Dog".
How To Train Your Man Dog.
I'm giving y'all a salon special, 20% off.
'Cause the 411 is what?
Men.
Are dogs.
That's right. And you gotta know
what kind of dog you dealing with.
Don't make fun of me.
I ain't messing with you, Alize.
What about romance?
Everybody knows romance is dead.
Nah, I don't believe that.
Some men are still romantic.
Yeah, some will do a trick or two
for about two minutes, isn't that right?
You've been reading those romance novels,
that's what's going on.
See, I don't care what you say.
One day my prince is gonna come.
Prince coming?
I'm gonna be at that wedding.
I'm gonna be there in a pink wig,
wave a magic wand and click my heels
three times, just like Dorothy.
D squad.
Hoover.
You better go over there and work on your game.
I got skillz.
(laughing)
And when coach finally puts me in the game
this General is gonna do his thing.
Bang.. bang.. and bang.
You ain't never gonna play.
I'll take your spot.
Man, whatever. Go over to D squad, man.
You see this, man?
This man does the same thing every day.
Jamba juice, ball in his hand,
he still can't make the shot.
Zeus!
I see you still got the same
energy drink, my brother.
Zeus The Moose .
My name's Zach.
My bad.
It's not about the jamba, man.
Nutrients.
When the coach put me in I'ma get my ten!
More like zero.
'Cause there's only one reason
he's gonna put you in.
Ah, whatever, man!
Whatever.
(whispering)
Justice...
I see you got tired of us spanking that ass, right?
You may be the man over there at Booker T.,
but I'm the man here. This is my house.
Just pass the ball to me
and we gonna get along just fine. Aight?
Remember that.
Come on, come on!
*
As promised.
I wrote up some more plays.
Uh, I don't believe I requested this,
Ms McCoy, but I thank you.
Practice was great today
and your son, he has skills.
Read the plays.
One practice does not make a team.
She's gonna be a problem.
*
There are coaches in town who would
kill their own mother to get this kid.
It's easy to seduce the enemy when he's
tired of being on the losing side.
We put the word out there
if he wanted to make history,
be part of a winning team,
to give us a holler...
And the next thing you know
he was transferring here.
Which brings us to exactly how
we can help each other.
I'm not breaking any NCAA rule by mentioning
there's a certain university in Iowa
that just made an offer so sweet
I got a cavity just hearing about it.
You see, I can't speak to Justice directly
but perhaps you can persuade him to cement
his acceptance to this certain university
and in doing so I'm sure someone
will offer you a much better position.
How much better?
Head Coach and First Assistant.
Triple the salaries.
Here's a letter of intent for him to sign.
He's under 18
so his mother's got to sign it too.
No problem.
You sure? I hear she's tough.
She's no match for Niven "General" Banks.
Piece of cake.
I'm gonna tell Mama!
-I don't care!
I'm home!
Mama, somebody here needs a little home training.
Destiny, what are you talking about?
And put the belt down.
Junior says he was a pimp!
You said what?
I come prepared.
Destiny, I am the only mama in this house.
Carvell Larsen Junior, how many times have I
told you you're not to say those kinds of words?
My dad says it.
I don't care what your daddy says.
Go to your room and stay there.
Hit it.
I can't believe you let him get off that easy!
Spare the rod, spoil the child.
And you have a few seconds to get out of
my face before I take this rod to your butt.
Did you see what Nicole was wearing today?
She looked like she was ready to join a convent.
Cute?
Whatever.
(laughs)
Starry, are you done with-
Alright, get off. Now.
Girl, yeah.
I gotta go. She's trippin'.
Give me the phone.
Bye.
You ain't seen trippin'.
You know what? Keep the attitude.
This phone will have my name on it permanently.
Now finish your homework.
And put on some decent clothes.
(doorbell ringing)
Cooty!
How many times have I asked you to call first
before you stop by?
Relax. I'm here to see the little man.
I want to take him to the studio.
Well, he can't. He's on lockdown.
What'd my little man do now?
He said that he was a pimp.
(laughing)
It's not funny, Cooty.
He's only five years old.
You know I got nothing but love for you, right?
You know that, right?
Yeah. Okay, I love you too, bye.
You're going to let me take him with me, right?
Yeah, we'll be right out.
* I was staring
* I think she caught me *
* Look at that body *
* Hotter than the Mojave *
(laughing)
Hi. -Hi.
I just have to get her to sign this
letter of intent for Iowa.
You think she's gonna be a problem?
Single mother of four, I don't think so.
She probably can't wait to
get him out of the house.
One less mouth to feed.
Just have to be strategic.
How about being strategic
when it comes to us?
Our future.
I believe it's time we take our relationship
to the next level.
Come on, we've been on and off for six months.
You have to admit we've been more on than off.
Shannon, I've told you I can't do that again.
Marriage doesn't work for me.
Now if you don't want to hang out anymore
I'm cool with that.
(laughing)
I'm just kidding.
(laughing)
This ring isn't even real!
That's not funny.
You should have seen your face.
Oh, my gosh!
*
* Pass the ball around *
* Boy, you better know that I'm burnin' out *
* I got net and when it's time to shoot *
* See me in the streets I got net *
Bella: are you ready?
It's time to introduce The Generals!
Reigning state champs
for the last six consecutive years.
They're of course led by Assistant Coach
Maurice Mitchell and Head Coach,
The General amongst Generals,
Niven Banks!
(music and cheering)
Bella: Tonight The General s play The
Tornadoes who are coached by Preston Reid,
who is also the former coach
of Justice "The Judge" McCoy.
Now there is no love lost between
Coach Banks and Coach reid.
They have a longstanding rivalry
for the last ten years
so this game should be extremely interesting.
(cheering)
That's my boy! That's my boy!
(cheering)
Just gotta work him harder.
(music and cheering)
Zone, defense, zone!
Drop the zone! Come on, Banks!
Drop the zone, man to man!
Come on, let's do something!
(whistle)
Justice is open!
Come on, pass it, Ick!
Oh, my God.
Come on!
Work the play!
Cincinnati! Cincinnati!
(whistle)
(arguing)
You have to do better than this.
-Better than what? We're winning.
I gave you plays.
I don't need your plays.
Oh, you need my plays.
No, I do not need your plays.
Oh, no?
No.
No?
No.
You threw my playbook away.
Yeah.
Ms McCoy, go back into the stands
where you belong.
Buh-bye.
Okay.
Who are we?
all: Generals!
Let's go!
Let's go, Justice. You're in.
I can't.
What do you mean you can't?
My mom said I can't.
Justice, get in the game.
No.
Can't play.
Get in the game.
(laughing)
Zeus.
McCoy seems to be sitting out for this one.
I guess the coach is playing the bench
and saving McCoy for the season.
Well, you know, that's what makes him
The General amongst Generals.
always strategizing.
You're kidding me, right?
Don't use my plays, he don't play.
Use my plays and he plays.
Reesie...
go in my office and get that playbook ou-
No, no. You threw it away, you go get it.
Where's Coach Banks going?
Box out!
(buzzer)
Whoo!
That's right, baby! That's right!
Ms McCoy...
don't you ever do that again.
I will do what I want.
What you need to do is tell Ick to stop
hogging the ball or Justice is out of here.
Out of here?
You heard correctly.
I will transfer him back to Booker T.
Then he will be the one who suffers.
I guess that's the price I'm willing to pay.
You're crazy.
Leave my mom alone. I'ma tell my daddy
to get you. He's a gangster and a pimp.
Shut up!
Who do you think you are
talking to my son like that?
Somebody should. Like somebody
should remind you who the coach is.
If you don't know about me
you'd better ask somebody.
I have, and the consensus is
you are lazy and too in love with your own hype.
Now I am not here to massage your ego,
nor is my son.
Ms McCoy, obviously you have way too much
time on your hands. You need a man in your life.
(laughing)
You need a woman in your life
to tell you the truth about yourself.
Come on.
She's crazy.
She probably played at some little girls club
and now she thinks she's an expert.
Baby, you like this? You bought it for me.
She's crazy. She's crazy.
My plays are tired...
My plays are tired?
I won six state championships.
Six!
She's crazy.
Hey, General! How you doing?
I'm here to see Talisa.
Talisa, you got a customer.
All booked up.
No, you ain't booked.
I need to talk to you.
We need to agree that the team has one coach.
Which means I need you to stay in your lane.
Stay in my lane?
Now your plays are crappy and you win by cheating.
Have you ever heard of the word "sportsmanship"?
Of teaching the boys to play with integrity?
Have you heard of minding your own business?
My business is basketball
and what it can do for my son.
You think because I'm a woman I don't know
anything about the game but you're wrong.
See, back in the day my daddy was a real baller.
He was winning championships
and scoring 40-50 points a game.
Really? What was his name?
William McCoy.
Never heard of him.
On the court they called him Billy the Kid.
Billy the Kid McCoy was your father?
I used to go to all his games.
He was a playground legend.
He had the prettiest shot...
*
Coach, I just want what's best for my son.
Me too.
Okay, I'll lay off a little bit.
As long as you try some of my plays.
And the manicure's on me.
*
That first game has got everybody excited.
The coverage of Justice, it's amazing, Niven.
Did you get him to sign?
I'm working on it.
You need to step it up.
We need to stay ahead of the competition.
Who are you telling?
I heard what his mother did at the first game.
You sure you can handle her?
I got this.
If you say so. Keep me posted.
Bye.
(dance music)
I cannot believe you dragged me here.
I am too old for this.
No, you too young to act so old, Talisa.
Your behind ain't been out in a year and
your butt ain't seen no action in three years.
Now this man you gonna meet tonight -
Oho, there he is!
Ha ha ha! Name is Milton.
Howdy!
He's a sweet dalmatian -
tireless and eager to please.
Hey, baby!
Now come on.
He's a cowboy, lookit that.
You fine!
Whoo ee! You fine!
I can't even believe this!
You know I own my own business.
And business is doing real good.
I make boxes for staples.
Ow!
You fine, you fine, you fine!
(laughing)
Ow!
That Justice's mom over there?
Oh, my goodness!
Who's that loser she's talking to?
You think that's her man?
No, that's not her man.
Oh, business is good!
Excuse me.
Talisa, I know we've been fighting
and, uh... Can we work this out?
I mean, really.
They're playing our song.
You know what... Um...
Would you please excuse me.
Ooh whee! She fine!
That was good back there, your "apology".
Yeah, well, I'm quick on my feet.
(laughing)
You actually sounded sincere.
But thank you for saving me.
I don't know why, since I'm such a crappy coach.
(laughing)
You'll be better once you start using
some of my plays.
You never quit, do you?
You know, I should, um,
I should really get home.
She f-i-i-ne!
And she real interested in my staple boxes.
Hoo hoo hoo!
Um... I have to go.
Are you sure?
Yeah.
Um, Alize. I'm ready to go.
But Alize ain't ready to go.
Talisa, I'll take you home.
You know what? I'm okay. I'll get a cab.
Talisa...
I'll take you home.
No, that's, uh, ha ha, good.
Thank you.
Independent and fine.
Whoo whee!
Talisa!
Just let me give you a ride home.
Are you always this stubborn?
*
You know, this is the quietest you've been
since I've known you.
I have nothing to say.
So, why did you let Justice transfer?
I know you didn't really want him to.
He thinks he can win a championship with you.
It's a personal goal of his.
And despite your many faults
you do have a few redeeming qualities.
Ha ha! Really? Like what?
First is your passion.
You really love the game and it shows.
Second, I like your run-and-gun style.
Never a dull moment when you're around.
And this is going to sound crazy but you
always put Prince on at your games and I figure
anyone who likes Prince can't be half bad.
I love Prince. I may be his biggest fan.
Okay, what do you think
my favorite Prince song is?
Uh, "Adore".
Come on, that's easy.
Prettiest love song ever written.
*
What are you doing?
-I'm walking you to your door.
This isn't a date.
-I'm just making sure you get home safe.
Okay, thank you.
Good night.
What the hell are you doing?
You are my son's coach!
What kind of voodoo did you do
to Justice's mama? These balloons are from her.
Wha-at?
"Dear Coach Banks. Sorry for slapping you".
She slapped you?
Yeah.
"You crossed the line
but I've decided to forgive you
since you finally used a couple of my plays".
"Enjoy the wish balloons.
One wish per balloon and watch what happens.
May all your wishes come true -Talisa".
Aw, that's sweet.
I feel a surrender on the horizon.
The General is eyeing victory.
Be careful, General. She might have you
changing your plays from the bed.
(laughing)
Here, take the white one.
Alright, I'm going to make a wish.
Okay.
What's wrong with the purple one?
Well, all the balloons represent
different things.
So blue is for success,
green is for growth, white is for peace
and the purple one is for love.
Love? I want love.
Stop it. I know your type.
My type? What's my type?
No, don't answer that.
The real question is what is your type?
Listen, I'm not saying that I'm not
attracted to you...
So what are you saying?
I'm saying that you're my son's coach
and it's not right.
Let me just take you out to dinner tonight.
As friends.
That's what I'm really wishing for.
(laughing)
I wish I could but I'm hosting an event
for Purvis Young tonight.
I'd love to go.
We could talk about your plays, basketball.
If you like, we can call it a "no date" date.
(indistinct chatter)
Purvis Young was a brilliant artist.
He was a black Picasso genius.
And he lived right here in Overtown.
His work is in museums all over the world.
It's in the Smithsonian in DC.
-Wow.
I always loved his work which is why
I created this event to honor him.
He painted these beautiful angels
all over the city to protect us.
You do all this for the kids?
Well, kids need something
to say "yes" to and it's wonderful
for them to see this kind of artwork
coming out of their own neighborhood.
Speaking of kids,
how did you end up with four kids?
I don't know how that's any of your business.
I was just trying to get to know you better.
That's all. I'm sorry.
I'm sorry. People make a lot of judgments.
Let me show you some other stuff.
(crickets chirping)
This was one of the best "no date" dates ever.
Me too.
Goodnight, Talisa.
Goodnight, Niven.
*
What?
I was wondering if I should slap you.
(laughing)
You better shut up and kiss me.
*
Goodnight.
*
(phone ringing)
Hello?
How about another "no date" date?
Hello.
Wow!
This is really nice.
Let me see what you got.
(cheering)
*
Every game is what?
War!
Who are we?
Generals!
*
It's not that bad.
What are we now?
Are they better than us?
Yeah.
Are they quicker than us?
Yeah.
But can we win?
No.
Let's go out there and do what they do.
Let's go out there and
try to play like they play!
Most of you guys will not be getting
a scholarship to college.
Did you see that?
We need to play like that!
*
(door creaking)
Oh!
Do you know what time it is?
This is totally unacceptable.
You want to come inside?
-Now?
Alize took the kids to Disney World.
They won't be back 'til tomorrow.
We have all night.
I like that...
I like that.
*
(door opens)
*
No, stop it, Niven.
I'm just gettin' started.
We ran out of money.
But clearly there's a free show
going on in here.
Coach Banks?
Okay.
(laughing)
Mom, you couldn't find somebody else,
other than my damn coach?!
Alright, you better check yourself.
I am the only parent in this house!
Then act like it!
You are a few seconds away
from being knocked out!
So how long you been seeing him?
And why you hiding behind my back?
I am not hiding it.
Honey, every other relationship I've had
I have jumped into it
and I wasn't doing it this time.
I didn't know where it was going.
I didn't want to bring you kids into it
until I knew.
Well, when you do know, please,
let your kids know.
How about I formally come over and meet the kids?
Let them meet me under different circumstances.
Really?
Yeah. I think it's time to let them know
how serious I am about their mother.
*
Okay.
How about Friday night for dinner?
Friday it is.
Go on and get them shoes you want.
You ain't my bloodline
but you my heart line, you know that.
Don't tell your mom 'cause
she don't know style like we do.
'Course.
Thank you, Cooty.
You just keep doing your thing.
Coach! My man!
I won a lot of money on you and your games.
I want you to know that I appreciate it.
It's an honor. Cooty's the name.
I'm sure she's told you about me.
He been bothering my mother, Daddy.
Beat him up with his punk ass.
He's my little rider, you see that?
He's got my back.
Alright, Junior. Go play in the other room.
You can take him down later. Alright?
It's time for Coach and me to conversate.
Look, I'm a record exec, right?
So I'm thinking maybe one of my artists
could do something for your halftime show.
You've heard of The Fat Boys?
Yeah!
These are The Skinny Boys. Right?
Health conscious.
All these little fat kids sitting down playing
video games, shoving stuff in their faces.
These kids go save that - you get me?
They doing their thing.
I got 'em on a low carb, all nuts,
all fruit kind of diet.
They eat a chicken sandwich
every other Thursday.
But they good, I mean, they hungry.
They hungry.
They're really hungry.
But here's the epic one:
Pimps With Perms.
Pimps With Perms?
Yeah, Pimps With Perms, right?
This is serious, right?
Samson style. Strengthen your hair.
Think about it. Powerful.
Pimpin' and slappin', right?
Then we flip the script on 'em. Hm?
Third album they gonna be saved.
You know what I mean?
Then we gettin' that gospel money.
You feel me?
I'm going to the mall.
Go change now.
What? I ain't got time.
Cooty gave me money for my grades.
What grades? She got C's and D's.
Cooty, why would you do that?
You're too hard on 'em. She tryin'.
You know what?
We are about to have dinner.
The six of us.
You're ruining my life!
Alright.
Coach, hey.
You get at me, aight?
Check us before we catch on now.
But you be cool, you keep it 100.
Welcome.
So, how- How are you?
That's good to hear, that's good to hear.
I'm not too bad myself.
So you like school?
Yeah, I never cared for it myself.
So I see you like guns.
You ever pick up a book?
A mind is a terrible thing to waste.
You should read "Moby Dick".
I hear that is an incredible...
Hey, you need some help in there?
-No, I'm almost done.
What are your intentions
with my mother? What do you want?
I got my eye on you.
Almost ready.
Ah, look at you!
Noelle, how are you doing?
How's my baby doing?
We're both good.
This baby's kicking like crazy.
Why is he here?
"He" is joining us for dinner.
For what? You said a family dinner.
Is he your boyfriend now?
Justice, we have been through this.
Do you even know this dude?
You should hear how the guys talk about him
and all his fine honeys.
We are not getting married. He is my friend.
I see!
No, you see with a kid's eye.
Maybe I should come back another time.
Maybe you should.
No, I say who stays in my house!
Now I'm about to put dinner on that table
and I expect all of us to eat together!
When my daddy comes back you better be gone!
Punk ass.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
Oh, you don't have to look at that.
It's not important.
No, this is you, baby.
"I will find true love".
"Wishing for love" and your purple balloons.
Come here, I want to show you something.
So this is where I come to escape.
It's my hideout.
Wow. You did all of this?
Yup. It's my magical garden.
See this boat here?
I come here...
and I sit...
with my vision board.
One day all of those things
are going to happen.
I guess I still believe in fairy tales.
One day I'm going to be swept up off my feet.
I think that's beautiful.
Is that Justice's baby, the pregnant girl?
Noelle. Guilty as charged.
But you know what?
He's gonna stand up and be a man
since he laid down as one.
He's a little ashamed of the situation
but I told him all you can do is love that baby
and find a way to take care of it
and he will take care of it.
(phone ringing)
Excuse me, please. Hello?
Niven, what is going on?
The school's getting really nervous.
I need a little bit more time.
More time for his mother?
What are you implying?
News travels.
Look, whatever you gotta do
to get the deal done, okay?
Keep me posted.
Bye. You too.
Okay, you got all these to pick from.
You had this one last time, but I like that.
Hello?
Ms McCoy,
this is Justice's Spanish teacher.
I'm calling to let you know that
Justice has missed several assignments
and he's also been cutting class lately.
Okay, thank you.
'Sup, Mom?
Don't "Mom" me.
Why did I just get a call from your spanish teacher
that you have missed two assignments
and you cut school today?
Mom, don't worry. Coach got the hook up.
What?
You better not be talking about
what I think you're talking about.
Coach takes care of all his players
and our grades.
What?
You see, this play can actually work
but it's stagnant.
See, Ick here, he can't be showboating.
We bring him to the top of the key then we can
create opportunities on both sides of the floor.
It's called "Jealous of Justice".
(laughing)
Hey, baby. What's wrong?
There's no "baby" today.
Are you padding these boys' grades?
They don't need to know that much about history.
That's not funny.
You know exactly what I'm talking about.
Some of these boys can't even read,
not to mention math.
My boys are ball players.
They're not scholars.
I just try to help them achieve their dreams.
By cheating.
Some of these boys are an injury away from zero
if they don't get something in their head.
I've had nine players go pro
since I've been a coach.
And you had 300 that didn't.
What about them?
Baby, I'm just trying to level the playing field
and give them a chance.
You do me a favor.
Don't do any leveling for my son.
I want Justice to earn his grades
or he does not play. Do you understand?
I understand.
Niven...
I want my kids to see me with a good man.
A man with values and integrity like my dad.
If you can't be that,
I don't want you around me or them.
*
From this day forward I want you guys
pulling at least a real C in very class.
Coach, we ain't scholars. We athletes.
Ain't it what you always say?
I was wrong. I've been doing you guys
a disservice all these years.
But you helped a lot of dudes
that couldn't get into the NBA.
Now they makin' that cash.
And a lot of guys didn't make it to the NBA.
So from this day forward you gotta pull a real C.
Thank you, gentlemen.
We'll get good grades.
*
Hey, Mom.
Hey, honey.
Um, the guys are here to study.
Can we use your laptop?
Yes, you may.
I will get that for you right now.
(doorbell)
Look at you right on time!
What up, Coach?
How you doing, girl? Looking good.
Where my little man at?
Junior.
* Honey dance like you want this money *
* Get your booty honey *
* Dance like you want this money *
Oh, snap!
Junior playing my song!
Junior, that's enough
with all that ignorant stuff!
Yo, Coach. What'd you say to my son?
He needs to pick up a book and learn his ABC's
instead of learning about some stupid rap song.
And you know what?
Stop disrespecting Talisa
coming over here unannounced.
You don't live here.
You got a lot to say about me.
So you know, I come and go as I damn well please.
I don't answer to her...
and I damn sure don't answer to your ass.
Let me-
No, no. I got this. if I'm your man
then it's my job to protect this family.
Let's take this outside.
Now!
Go, go, go!
(loud smack)
You know, he does help out but he has no right.
No, I had no right.
No, you were right.
I want both of my sons to know what a good man is
and Cooty... He's a work in progress.
And you...
Standing up for us like you did
and calling us "family".
You know, you don't have to say it yet,
but I will...
I love you.
Oh.
Hello?
(laughing)
Shannon.
I've been meaning to...
Yeah, yeah. Save yourself a lie.
Tell me when you're gonna stop
playing house with Justice's mama.
You can't keep me dangling forever.
Shannon...
(sigh)
I've been meaning to call you and tell you
but everything just happened so quick.
I never met a woman like her before.
She even sent me wish balloons.
What?
It's these silly little balloons and you make
wishes and, um, she has this garden
with a boat in it and this vision board
with all these things on it and...
I mean, she's amazing.
Oh.
Whoa.
One minute you're playing her and
the next minute you tell me you love her.
I'm sorry, Shannon.
I should have called you and told you
but I just didn't-
No need to explain yourself.
Did you get Iowa?
Not quite.
(laughs)
Well, I gotta go.
(door closes)
If it isn't the boy who made it all happen!
Hi!
No need for that look.
I only have eyes for your mother.
I wanted to talk to you about Noelle.
Why don't I ever see Noelle
at any of the games?
I really don't want people in my business.
So you're hiding her.
No. You wouldn't understand.
Yeah, I would.
I had my daughter when I was 17.
I was a senior in high school.
Talk about being embarrassed.
I was embarrassed and ashamed
and I didn't handle things the right way.
All I cared about was basketball.
Made a lot of mistakes.
I missed out on a lot.
Don't be a father that denies
the mother of his children.
Let her come to the games.
(indistinct chatter)
*
That your girl?
Yeah, that's Noelle. My lady.
All of her?
Yeah, all of her.
Four, three, two, one!
(cheering)
...in the fourth quarter and
the judge has slammed down his gavel
and The Generals have taken the game!
(cheering)
We've got the championship game
next Saturday.
It is against your rivals again -
the Booker T. Washington Tornadoes.
This was just unbelievable.
Couldn't jump that high with a jet pack!
(laughing)
Fellas...
Fabulous game! Our boy looked great.
The deal is off.
General...
Want to tell me what's going on here?
I mean, I know we just got the win,
but this is the minor leagues.
We're talking about going to the majors.
The deal is off.
So who got to you? Was it Cal?
No, wait. Kentucky.
It was Kentucky, wasn't it?
Nobody got to me. I just changed my mind.
I'm staying here and Justice can choose
whatever school he wants.
Goodnight, gentlemen.
Goodnight.
Hey Niven!
Niven!
Hey, Niven! Who got to you?!
Who got to you?!
Let me talk to him.
(knocking)
Don't worry. I was just in your building
visiting a friend and I thought I'd stop by.
Any wine?
Shannon, what are you doing here?
I was at your game last night.
Congratulations.
Looks like you're going to the finals again.
I am so proud of you.
But then again I'm your biggest fan.
I appreciate that.
Mm.
I see you have new reading material.
They're for Talisa's youngest.
I'm trying to expand his mind.
He's smart as a whip.
And some magazines for her daughter
so she can dress a little better.
So you're playing daddy.
Not really.
This is delicious. Not your usual.
Talisa brought it the other night.
Oh.
Wow. I never thought...
Well, I want you to be happy,
and if you're happy I'm happy.
Like I said, I was just stopping by.
Shannon, stop dropping by.
It's disrespectful to Talisa.
Okay. My bad.
Bye.
-Bye.
Hey, what's up?
Coach?
Surprise!
Or whatever they say in things like this.
What's all of this?
Man, Coach made us do it.
We tried to tell him only women give baby showers.
Look, we know you got a shorty on the way.
We just wanted to let you know we got your back.
Here, man.
So he can get big and strong eating right.
Thanks, man.
So look. Ain't no baller without one of these.
Thanks, man.
For you, a box of condoms.
So your butt don't get caught up again.
So you got jokes.
Justice...
I wrote something.
"Be the father that you always wanted
but never had.
Be the father your son will need
and now has in you.
And always be that beacon of light
that guides him and you
toward the path of becoming
the best men that you could possibly be".
(applause)
(indistinct chatter)
Hey, Coach.
Look. You on TV.
Turn it up!
Now you guys know I've been a big fan
of Niven Banks for a long time.
What he's done for high school basketball
is unprecedented
but he's gone too far this time.
You're absolutely right.
And I have it from a reliable source
that he is currently sleeping with
the star player's mother.
"General among Generals" my butt.
Let's be clear on this.
This isn't some romance,
he's using her.
We've learned he has a letter of intent
from a university in Iowa.
If he gets Justice to sign with them
he gets paid with a fat coaching gig.
Niven Banks was about to get paid.
I will not tolerate this.
I am convening a special commission to investigate
and get to the bottom of this right now.
Let's be clear.
This is bad for Miami basketball.
This is bad for basketball in general.
We already have a reputation of
win at all costs.
Hello?
Hi. May I help you?
I'd like to get my nails done by Talisa.
Uh...
Oh, okay.
You know, your son is playing so incredible.
You must be so proud.
I'm sorry, you are..?
You don't remember me.
I'm Shannon.
Niven's fiancee.
What?
Yeah. I was out of town and now I'm back,
and boy is Niven happy about that.
Just last night we were polishing off
that bottle of wine that you left
and we were talking about how we need to
stop this on and off thing and
take our relationship to the next level.
You know that we do have an understanding?
Really?
Yes.
But Niven wanted everything aboveboard
so he told me all about you.
About your wishing balloons,
your garden with a boat in it.
Your vision board.
Oh, my gosh. Who does that?
Wow.
Go, girl.
What exactly are you here for?
I just couldn't take it anymore.
I cannot see him using you like this.
He's using you.
I don't know what it is.
He's trying to get the milk for free...?
I don't know, but, you know... men.
Okay, Shannon.
Thank you very much for the information
but you need to go now.
But I'm just trying to help a sister out.
Yes, and I am trying not to go to jail
but that is exactly what's going to happen
if you don't get out of here
in the next ten seconds.
Alright, listen up.
Although these are just allegations
at this point they are nevertheless serious.
If the investigation concludes that
recruiting rules were indeed violated
the school may have to pay some fines
and give back the season,
including your upcoming championship.
I'll keep you all posted.
Coach Banks, I need to speak with you privately.
Listen, I know what's been going on
all these years but I've always been able
to look the other way 'cause it's always been
for the betterment of this school.
Not this time, Niven.
It's not what you think.
You know what hurt me the most?
You didn't tell me you were planning on leaving.
I had to find out on the news.
I know it looks bad but let me explain.
There is nothing to explain, Niven.
What I didn't find out about on the news
Shannon made sure to fill me in on the rest.
Shannon?
Yes, Shannon. Your fiancee.
Fiancee, what are you talking about?
It's time to man up, Niven.
She explained everything to me.
How the two of you drank the
bottle of wine I brought over there.
The balloons, my vision board.
And of course she made sure to show me
the ring that you gave her.
Ring...?
I didn't give her that ring!
It's fake!
Yeah, just like you!
I just want you to tell me one thing.
Were you or were you not using me and Justice
so you could get a job in the NCAA?
I was at first.
(indistinct chatter)
Talisa, can I talk to you?
Stay outta my face.
It's good to see you.
Thanks for being here.
It's my pleasure. looking forward to
seeing your team play tonight.
Thanks, it means a lot you being here, man.
You're going to enjoy the team.
Justice McCoy, he's the star.
I'm looking forward to seeing him -
as is everyone else but you got a great team.
I'm looking forward to watching you guys play.
Very good to see you.
-Thank you very much.
(cheering)
Kick some ass!
* Years of being patient *
* But the time is finally here *
* Losing's not an option *
* So don't let it interfere *
* How bad do you want it? *
* Are you hungry for it? *
* How bad do you want it? *
* Leave it to you
(cheering)
*
* But I could see my name in lights *
* Up on broadway in plain sight *
* The world will say my name right *
That's right.
(cheering and music)
*
* Years of being patient *
* But the time is finally here *
* Losing's not an option victory is way too near *
* We need victory we need victory *
* We need victory
we need victory *
* We need victory
*
(whistle)
(cheering)
Coach said he'd give your mom some too.
(whistle)
(shouting)
Stop!
(shouting)
Enough!
We got a technical foul on #24.
We also got a technical foul on #20.
Both are ejected.
This isn't good. without Justice and Ick
they don't stand a chance at winning.
What's wrong with you?
Sit down.
Justice, what were you thinking?
Sit down.
We're gonna win that damn game!
You understand me?
I want you to play better!
I want you to slam something down!
Slam their asses down!
Alright, Hoover, come on!
Come on, Hoover, you can do it!
(cheering)
They're... They're gonna need a miracle.
(cheering)
* We need victory we need victory *
* We need victory
*
Zeus The Moose is playing like a beast.
*
Oh, my God.
Hoover's gonna take the shot.
Hoover's down.
He looks like he's knocked out.
* Losing's not an option so you ignore the fear *
* How bad do you want it? *
* Are you hungry for it? *
* How bad do you want it? *
* Leave it to you
*
(buzzer)
(cheering)
Oh, my God!
The Generals have won seven
state consecutive championships.
This is unbelievable!
If you weren't here
you missed history in the making
'cause that ain't gonna be on Sportscenter.
(cheering)
Hoover! Hoover! Hoover! Hoover!
That was a really great game, Coach.
Look, sorry about how things went down. Aight?
Me and my little man been reading
them books you got him.
Never thought he'd start asking me for
books instead of guns, know what I mean?
But I appreciate it.
Respect, man. Congrats again.
*
* Tossin' turnin' *
* And I don't know how to live again *
* Like a story ends
Niven...
you really doing this?
I had to resign.
It was the right thing to do.
I created this mess.
I just can't believe Riley set me up so fast.
I say no to the deal
and then everything hits the fan.
It was me.
Not Riley.
You know, we were this close
to having our dream.
The dream we both talked about.
Being college coaches, and then to the NBA.
But you fell in love...
and everything changed
and not for the better.
Not from where I'm sitting.
I thought we were a team.
And then I let Shannon...
I should have never listened to her.
Anyway, at the time I thought maybe you were
strategizing a plan that didn't involve me.
I got stupid.
I'm sorry.
I'm sorry too.
We're still boys.
You know, the only thing I feel really bad about
is losing her.
Who are we?
Generals.
(knocking)
Hello! I knew you'd call.
I see you finally got tired of playing house.
Ugh.
(laughing)
I didn't think you were that kind of woman.
What? You didn't think I was
gonna fight for what we had?
What we had was nothing...
compared to what I had with Talisa.
So you used me?
Shannon... we used each other.
I'm not even mad at you. I just called you
so you can come and get your stuff.
The High School Association has
decided to drop their investigation
against Miami Jackson High
after Head Coach Niven Banks resigned last week.
The school has promoted
Maurice Mitchell to Head Coach.
In other sports news
Justice "The Judge" McCoy
will be a hurricane this fall after signing a
letter of intent with the University of Miami.
I'm really excited about attending the
University of Miami and becoming a Hurricane.
God has done so much in my life.
He's blessed me with talent, a hardworking
single mother - I know how hard it is for her.
I'ma do this for her.
Happy to be here and I'ma make everyone proud.
(cheering)
(knocking)
(rapid knocking)
Destiny, what are you doing here?
Cooty brought me here.
Wow! This is nice!
Are you The General or not?
What kind of general gives up the fight
when the battle gets hard?
Look, I'm only seven. If I were in your shoes
I would replay every conversation
that you ever had with my mom
and figure out what's important to her
besides us kids.
Think about it, General.
*
(crickets chirping)
German Shepherd men are hardworking
but boring, Okay? Boring.
This is my new bestseller.
Count on it.
What is that?
What's that music?
* You must imagine things that aren't so *
* I play with the idea your heart didn't go *
* I rewrote the script, why let the world know *
Talisa McCoy...
I know I royally screwed up...
and I don't want to lose you...
so I'm here tonight to make a wish...
These are wish balloons.
Somebody told me that if you wish really hard
anything you want will come true.
And tonight I only have one wish.
I...
want...
to be...
with you.
*
Talisa McCoy...
will you marry me?
*
I say yes.
*
I say yes.
*