He Got Game is a 1998 sports drama film directed by Spike Lee. The film stars Denzel Washington as Jake Shuttlesworth, a prison inmate serving time for accidentally killing his wife. Jake's son, Jesus Shuttlesworth, played by NBA player Ray Allen, is a highly sought-after high school basketball player.
The Governor of New York offers Jake an early release if he can convince Jesus to sign with his alma mater, Big State University. Jake is given one week to persuade Jesus to attend the college, which would not only give him a chance to play college basketball, but also give him a better shot at playing in the NBA.
The film follows Jake's attempts to reconnect with Jesus, who has a strained relationship with his father. Jesus is not sure he wants to play college basketball and is also being courted by professional teams, which could potentially financially benefit his family.
Throughout the film, Jake and Jesus confront their past relationship and how Jake's imprisonment has affected their family. The movie also explores themes of race, family, and the pressure placed on young athletes to achieve greatness.
He Got Game features numerous cameos from NBA players and coaches, including Shaquille O'Neal, Michael Jordan, and Charles Barkley. The film's soundtrack, produced by Public Enemy frontman Chuck D, includes songs from artists such as Nas and Wu-Tang Clan.
The film was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $21 million at the box office. It has since become a cult classic and is widely considered one of Spike Lee's best films.