The real-life characters profiled in the much-anticipated cinematic tribute to basketball legend LeBron James, Shooting Stars, are portrayed by a talented cast of actors. The film takes audiences on an exhilarating journey through the formative years of the iconic athlete's career. Set against the backdrop of Akron, Ohio, this movie delves deep into James' time at St. Vincent-St. Mary's High School, where he showcased his talent and led his team to several championships. With a talented cast and an inspiring storyline, Shooting Stars offers fans a chance to experience the moments that shaped LeBron James' journey from a talented high school player to the number one draft pick in the 2003 NBA Draft.
At the heart of this cinematic spectacle are the vivid portrayals of LeBron James and his close-knit group of teammates: Lil Dru Joyce, Willie McGee, Romeo Travis, and Sian Cotton. Each character represents a unique blend of talent, ambition, and camaraderie, forming an unstoppable force on the court. Played by a cast of rising talents, the movie captures the electric chemistry and unwavering determination that propelled this extraordinary team to greatness. Shooting Stars promises to captivate audiences with its thrilling depiction of LeBron James' high school glory and the bonds forged on the path to basketball superstardom.
Marquis "Mookie" Cook as Young LeBron James
Marquis "Mookie" Cook takes on the role of a young LeBron James in Shooting Stars. Mookie himself has never acted before but is an exceptional basketball talent. He is a top-ranked high school basketball player who played in the 2023 All-Star Game and is a promising prospect for the 2024 NBA draft. The movie revolves around LeBron James' high school years, where he shone as a star player at St. Vincent-St. Mary in Akron, Ohio. James was selected as the number one pick in the 2003 NBA draft from high school by the Cleveland Cavaliers, making him part of one of the most exceptional draft classes in NBA history.
Caleb McLaughlin as Dru "Lil Dru" Joyce III
Lil Dru is the son of LeBron James' assistant coach, Dru Joyce. Not only is Lil Dru a teammate and close friend of James, but he has also pursued a successful coaching career. Currently, he serves as the coach of the Duquesne Dukes men's college basketball team, showcasing his talent and expertise in the sport. He is played by Caleb McLaughlin, who is known for his portrayal of Lucas in the hit series Stranger Things. McLaughlin recently starred alongside Idris Elba in Concrete Cowboys and was recognized as a 2021 honoree in Forbes' 30 under 30 list.
Wood Harris as Coach Dru Joyce II
Wood Harris is known for notable roles in films such as Remember the Titans, Creed, and the television series The Wire. Coach Dru is a mentor to both LeBron James and Lil Dru and plays a pivotal role in their basketball journeys. Notably, Coach Dru guided LeBron's team to the 2003 Championship Game, led by the young LeBron himself. Coach Dru is the father of Lil Dru, a close friend and teammate of LeBron. Coach Dru continues coaching at St. Vincent-St. Mary in Akron, Ohio. Additionally, he is the founder and president of the Northeast Ohio Basketball Association, showcasing his dedication to the sport.
Avery Wills Jr as Willie McGee
McGee is a teammate of LeBron James in high school, playing a significant role in their team's victory in the 2003 Championship. As an adult, McGee has served as an assistant coach at various institutions, including St. Vincent-St. Mary, and the University of Akron. Furthermore, McGee has taken on the role of athletic director at St. Vincent-St. Mary. Presently, he holds the position of We Are Family Coach at House Three Thirty, a program associated with the LeBron James Family Foundation. Portraying a high-school-aged Willie McGee in Shooting Stars marks Avery Wills Jr's second acting job following his portrayal of Ricky in the series Swagger.
Sterling "Scoot" Henderson as Romeo Travis
In Shooting Stars, Romeo is depicted as a resentful rival of LeBron James, but despite their differences, he played a crucial role in the 2003 Championship game. Presently, Romeo serves as an assistant coach at St. Vincent-St. Mary working under head coach Dru Joyce. Coach Dru is actively mentoring Romeo to take over as head coach one day. Sterling "Scoot" Henderson, who portrays Romeo, is a talented basketball player in his first film role. He graduated early from Carlton J Kell High School and currently plays G League hoops. Scoot is a top-three prospect in the upcoming 2023 NBA draft, set to take place on June 22nd.
Khalil Everage as Sian Cotton
Sian is a close friend and teammate of LeBron James, playing a crucial role in their team's victorious 2023 championship alongside Romeo, Lil Dru, LeBron, and Willie. Notably, Sian is a multi-sport athlete in basketball, football, and baseball. Sian has more recently emerged as a talented rapper, even submitting his music for LeBron's NBA 2K14 music project. LeBron recognized Sian's unique voice and has been a staunch supporter of his musical career ever since. Khalil Everage, known for his role as Chris in Netflix's Cobra Kai, brings Sian Cotton's character to life in Shooting Stars.
Dermot Mulroney as Coach Keith Dambrot
Coach Dambrot came to Lebron's high school team in need of redemption. He was fired from Central Michigan University after using a racial slur in public comments about the team. The coach then ended up at St Vincent-St Mary high school, where he was the head coach of the championship 2002 and 2003 teams, led by LeBron. Despite his past controversies, he remains a mentor in LeBron's life. Dermot Mulroney, a renowned actor known for his roles in films like My Best Friend's Wedding and most recently as Detective Bailey in Scream VI, brings Coach Keith Dambrot's character to life in Shooting Stars.
LeBron James as Himself
Renowned as one of the greatest players in the NBA, LeBron is often mentioned alongside basketball legends Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan. Beyond his on-court accomplishments, LeBron is recognized for his activism and advocacy. In 2020, he played a pivotal role in urging the NBA to acknowledge the Black Lives Matter movement. Moreover, he prioritizes player safety, collaborating with the NBA to establish the 2020 championship bubble in Orlando. Acting is not unfamiliar territory for LeBron, as he has appeared as himself in various movies, television shows, sports documentaries, and specials. Some notable examples include Teen Titans Go, Space Jam: A New Legacy, and ESPN's 30 for 30 series.
Supporting Cast & Characters
Algee Smith as Ilya McGee, the older brother of Willie, a friend, and teammate of Lebron's. He serves as Willie McGee's guardian and acts as a parental figure in his life. Algee Smith is most known for his role as Chris McKay in the TV series Euphoria. He also portrayed Jake Winters in the film Judas and the Black Messiah.
Diane Howard as Carolyn Joyce, Coach Joyce's wife and Lil Dru's mother, and is played by Diane Howard in Shooting Stars. Diane Howard appeared in one episode of the television series Chicago Med. In her most recent work, she had a minor role in the TV series Wu-Tang: An American Saga.
Natalie Paul as Gloria Marie James, LeBron's mother. Gloria is a single mother who has tremendously influenced Lebron's life, both in the past and today. She played a vital role in shaping him into the person he is today. It is worth noting that Natalie Paul portrayed Frankie Campbell in the TV series The Blacklist.
Katlyn Nichol as Savannah James, LeBron's wife since 2013. Together Lebron and Savannah have three children. She is not only his spouse but also a significant supporter and fan of LeBron, showing unwavering support for his career. Katlyn Nichol is notably known for her role as Olivia Lockhart in the TV series Blackish. She will undoubtedly add to Shooting Stars' success.
