David Vyorst's documentary The First Basket takes a look at the early days of the Basketball Association of America. When it was formed in 1946, the majority of players were Jewish -- a fact that certainly is not true of American basketball just 60 years later. This film showcases how these athletes provided inspiration for Jews suffering discrimination. ~ Perry Seibert, Rovi
A valuable reminder that for nearly three decades, basketball was dominated by Jewish players -- and coaches who found the sport an ideal vehicle for assimilation in the United States.
When the history of the sport is allowed to unfold through the reminiscences of geriatric Yiddish pros, pic approaches the richness of its impressive archival trove. Too often, however, director David Vyorst's chauvinistic agenda intrudes.
The First Basket, a functional (if narrowly interesting) history lesson by the filmmaker David Vyorst, recollects the rich history of Jewish participation in basketball.
Students of the game will find the archival footage interesting, but casual filmgoers will likely be frustrated by the slavish on-court devotion to unflashy fundamentals and the inexcusable lack of dunking.
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