Netflix Greenlights Head coach Rick Carlisle’s Humble, Generous Life To Shine In Film premiering On His 25th Wedding Anniversary…
Los Angeles, CA – June 25, 2025 – Netflix has announced the greenlighting of a new biographical film chronicling the remarkable life of Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle. Titled A Humble Legacy, the film will premiere on September 16, 2025, coinciding with Carlisle’s 25th wedding anniversary to his wife, Donna Nobile Carlisle.
The project promises to offer an intimate look at the NBA champion’s journey from small-town New York to the pinnacle of basketball, highlighting his humility, generosity, and enduring partnership both on and off the court.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Ava DuVernay, A Humble Legacy traces Carlisle’s path from his roots in Lisbon, New York, where he became the first 1,000-point scorer at Lisbon Central High School, to his illustrious NBA career. As a player, Carlisle won a championship with the Boston Celtics in 1986, and as a coach, he led the Dallas Mavericks to their first-ever title in 2011, becoming one of only 14 individuals to achieve the feat in both roles. The film delves into his coaching tenures with the Detroit Pistons, Indiana Pacers, and Mavericks, showcasing his evolution from a demanding leader to a collaborative mentor who guided the Pacers to the 2025 NBA Finals.
Beyond his professional accolades, the film emphasizes Carlisle’s personal life, particularly his 25-year marriage to Donna, a pediatric infectious disease specialist. Their love story, which began with a Grateful Dead concert date 38 years ago, is a central theme, celebrating their enduring bond and shared commitment to family and community.
The couple’s daughter, Abby, a University of Virginia student, also features prominently, with heartwarming moments drawn from her viral TikTok videos dancing alongside her father, revealing a lighter side of the typically stoic coach.
A Humble Legacy celebrates Rick Carlisle’s quiet generosity and the profound impact he’s had on those around him,” said DuVernay. “His story is one of perseverance, trust, and love, and we’re thrilled to share it on such a meaningful date—his 25th anniversary.”
The film’s release on September 16, 2025, aligns with the Carlisles’ milestone anniversary, a fitting tribute to their partnership. Netflix plans a star-studded premiere in Indianapolis, with proceeds benefiting local youth basketball programs, reflecting Carlisle’s dedication to giving back. The project has garnered buzz for its uplifting narrative, with early screenings praised for their emotional depth and authenticity.
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