One and Not Done
ESPN’s 30 for 30 series of documentaries continues to be a highlight following the recent Oscar win for O.J.: Made In America. Their latest film, which debuts April 13 at 9ET, is One and Not Done and examines the life, successes, and controversy of college basketball coach John Calipari.
Using the coach’s 2015 Basketball Hall of Fame induction ceremony as a framing device, we see how Calipari’s humble beginnings are a source of his passion as well as the reason he sees his role in his player’s lives as different than many of his peers. Calipari makes no qualms that he views basketball, not as a path to education, but as a path to the NBA. A place where young men who grew up in poverty, as Calipari had, have a chance to take care of their families.
This view makes him a target, as the documentary shows. The spotlight doesn’t shy away from the fact that two of Calipari’s Final Four appearances were vacated by the NCAA due to violations. A brief stop in the NBA was tarnished by a poor record and insensitive remarks about a reporter. But Calipari’s legacy may be embraced by fully embracing the “One and Done Rule.”
The rule, which was included in the 2005 Collective Bargaining Agreement, stated that a player must be at least 19 years old and one year removed from high school in order to be eligible for the NBA Draft. While controversial, it created a crop of players who would only be in college for one year. While some coaches didn’t want “one and done” players, Calipari embraced it. He made sure his recruits knew it, and used his connections to get top talent.
The documentary examines this issue, but through the lens of Calipari’s life and career. What could easily have been a debate about a controversial rule is transformed into a character study that gives you Calipari’s perspective while acknowledging it is not without controversy. The piece is well constructed but may have some parts that are a bit rudimentary for die-hard College Basketball fans. But even non-fans will find the story fascinating as the film’s highlights are seeing the coach interact with his players. A scene involving a Powerball Jackpot is particularly resonant.
All in all, One and Not Done is a strong member of the 30 for 30 series. But after watching it, you need to tell me if you are also hoping for another installment all about “Worldwide Wes.”