THE FUNDAMENTALS
One Tape. One Voice. One Way Out.
Inspired by the true story of Spencer Reed, The Fundamentals follows Joey, a young boy growing up in rural Florida who discovers an old basketball instruction tape and a voice that changes his life. Armed with little more than a boombox, a backyard hoop, and relentless determination, Joey spends countless hours practicing alone, dreaming of a future beyond the world he knows.
A heartfelt coming-of-age drama about family, perseverance, and the power of believing in yourself, The Fundamentals explores how a single voice can inspire a child to find his purpose—and his way forward.
FILMING AUGUST 2026 IN WILMINGTON, NC
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Official Poster
Designed by Ed Morgan of North Carolina’s Navy Blue Design, this poster will soon be available for donors.
John Bankston (Age 16)
Co-writer and producer of The Fundamentals, John Bankston is the author of over 175 books for young readers (including The Academy and Death Detectives series). A working writer since his teens, he recently worked on a Lifetime movie and has several pilots in active development. He divides his time between Orange County, CA and North Carolina.
Spencer Reed (age 15)
Creator, co-writer, and Executive Producer of The Fundamentals, Spencer Reed was raised by his maternal grandparents in rural Central Florida. A stand-out basketball player who spent his childhood working in tobacco fields, he has been developing this, his life story, for over two decades. He currently lives in Orange County, California.
Inspired by the true story of Spencer Reed, The Fundamentals explores the moments that shape a life. Before the championships, before the crowds, and before the victories, there was simply a boy, a basketball, and a cassette tape that taught him to believe.
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Follow the production of The Fundamentals as we move toward filming in Wilmington, North Carolina.
Production Information
The Fundamentals is currently in pre-production and is actively seeking cast, crew. locations, and community partners throughout North Carolina.
Produced by SLR Productions LLC and First National Bankston Productions.
Filming August 2026 in Wilmington, North Carolina
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