More Than a Game - The Best Sports Movies and Shows Based in Texas

Set against the backdrop of a small town, Friday Night Lights showcases the trials and triumphs of life in Dillon, Texas, where high school football reigns supreme. This gripping series dives into the lives of players, coaches, and fans, revealing the intense pressure and passion surrounding this beloved sport.

In Glory Road, we are transported to 1966, where Texas Western coach Don Haskins challenges the norms of a divided society by leading the first all-black starting line-up to the NCAA national championship. This powerful film not only tells the story of sports but also addresses significant social change with a heart-wrenching narrative.

Everybody Wants Some!! brings a comedic twist to the world of sports as it follows a group of college friends navigating the freedoms and responsibilities of young adulthood. The film encapsulates what it's like to enjoy life while balancing the pressures of athletic commitments, all set within the vibrant landscape of Texas.

Whip It takes viewers to the indie-rock loving town of Bodeen, Texas, where the spirited protagonist finds solace in roller derby. As she battles her small-town struggles, this film celebrates individuality and the power of community, all while delivering high-octane sport on roller skates.

Diving into the world of professional football, North Dallas Forty offers a semi-fictional glimpse into life as a player in the early 1970s, based loosely on the Dallas Cowboys. The film explores the challenges of fame and the often-harsh realities of the sport in a humorous yet poignant manner.

The Rookie tells the inspiring true story of Jim Morris, who, after a shoulder injury derailed his baseball career, finds himself back on the field. As a high school coach, he motivates his underdog team to win a championship, leading him to try for a major league contract that reignites his dreams of playing in the big leagues.

In Stick It, the rebellious teen Haley is sentenced to an elite gymnastics academy where she battles her inner demons and her resolve to excel. Under the guidance of a gruff coach, she learns valuable lessons about teamwork, discipline, and the sport she once took for granted.

Varsity Blues explores the intense pressure faced by high school athletes in small-town Texas, where football can feel like a religion. When star quarterback Lance Harbor is injured, second-stringer John Moxon is thrust into the spotlight, challenging the established norms of tradition and performance.

The narrative continues with another rendition of Friday Night Lights, chronicling the highs and lows of a high school football team. As hopes falter after a key player's injury, Coach Gary Gaines works tirelessly to uplift not only his players but the entire community, highlighting the emotional depth of the game.

Necessary Roughness presents a humorous take on athletics as it depicts the Texas State University Fightin' Armadillos, forced to recruit real students after a series of mishaps. Will they secure a single game victory? This film is a blend of comedy and sports, capturing the underdog spirit perfectly.