The Anthem

To defend his best friend's honor, a high school basketball star jeopardizes his collegiate career by kneeling during a nationally televised game. He awakens his inner activist, as he fights the justice system, racism, and the NCAA.

King and Jeremiah are well-known high school basketball stars in New York City. On their way home from practice, as they are talking about college plans, the pair were harassed by Officer McCraw, an NYPD officer who recognized them from the newspaper. King, passive and compliant, interacts with the officer like most young, Black boys are taught to. Not Jeremiah. As a future sociology major, he knows his rights and is not afraid to voice his knowledge. The altercation leaves Jeremiah with soiled sweatpants, embarrassed, and disappointed in his childhood friend for not having his back.

Click “Sneak Peak” to see what happens after Jeremiah confronts Officer McCraw with a peace offering to his next game.