Paige Bueckers’ off-season is heating up—and we’re not just talking about the WNBA superstar’s upcoming debut in Unrivaled, the player-owned three-on-three league based in Miami.
On October 29, Deadline reported that the 2025 WNBA Rookie of the Year is set to star in Jess & Pearl, a sports movie developed by Apple Original Films. Though Apple did not comment on the report, Deadline’s sources claim the project is “set in the world of women’s basketball” and based off an original idea by Scandal writer and producer Zahir McGhee. Bueckers will reportedly serve as an executive producer as well.
Here’s everything we know about Paige Bueckers’ upcoming Hollywood debut.
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What is Jess & Pearl?
So far, all we have is this brief description provided by Deadline: “Set in the world of women’s basketball, the film follows two phenoms who forge an extraordinary bond as teammates until fame, competition, and the ruthless business of college athletics threaten to turn their friendship into an epic rivalry.”
When is Jess & Pearl coming out?
So far, no release date has been set or announced.
Who is involved behind-the-scenes?
UConn alum and Dallas Wings guard Paige Bueckers will reportedly serve as an executive producer, while David Bernad (The White Lotus) has reportedly signed on to produce the project through his company, Middle Child Pictures. Lindsay Kagawa Colas, who recently served as executive producer on a documentary about WNBA legend Sue Bird, is allegedly on board to produce alongside producer Tommy Alter.
Paige Bueckers Will Reportedly Star in a Movie About a Women’s Basketball Rivalry
The rising Star of Women’s Basketball: Paige Bueckers Takes Center court in Hollywood
Paige Bueckers, the prodigious talent and iconic face of women’s basketball, is set to bring her charisma and athletic prowess to the big screen. Reports confirm that Bueckers will star in a groundbreaking movie centered on a fierce and historic women’s basketball rivalry, a story that promises to captivate sports fans and cinema lovers alike.
This film is anticipated to shine a spotlight on the competitive spirit, determination, and cultural impact of women’s basketball, further elevating both the sport and Paige’s already remarkable legacy.
About the movie: The Women’s Basketball Rivalry Drama
The upcoming movie delves into one of the most electrifying rivalries in women’s basketball history, exploring themes such as teamwork, rivalry, perseverance, and empowerment. With Paige Bueckers starring, the film promises authenticity and real heart, given her firsthand experience as a top-tier athlete.
- Plot Focus: The tension and triumphs between two dominant women’s basketball teams.
- Genre: Sports Drama / Biographical inspiration
- Setting: Key arenas, high school gyms, and college courts over several seasons.
- Themes: Female empowerment, rivalry intensity, friendship, and athletic excellence.
Why This Movie Matters for Women’s Sports Portrayal
This film contributes profoundly to the growing trend of powerful narratives celebrating female athletes and sports rivalries. Paige Bueckers, an emblematic figure for the new generation of women’s basketball players, naturally embodies this cause.
By starring in such a pivotal movie, Paige helps shed light on women’s basketball as not just a sport but a global movement inspiring young girls and women worldwide.
Paige Bueckers: From Basketball Courts to Hollywood Spotlight
Widely recognized for her exceptional skills at UConn and beyond,Paige’s journey has been nothing short of unusual. Known for her scoring ability,vision,and leadership on the court,she effortlessly commands attention – qualities that translate seamlessly to acting.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Basketball achievements | Multiple collegiate awards, All-american honors, and national acclaim |
| Public Persona | Charismatic leader, social media influencer, advocate for women’s sports |
| Film Role | Lead actress portraying a basketball star caught in a historic rivalry |
| Impact Anticipated | Boost awareness of women’s basketball through mainstream media |
firsthand Experience: What Paige Bueckers Brings to the Role
Unlike traditional actors venturing into sports roles, Paige offers authenticity grounded in lived experience.This insider advantage means:
- Accurate depiction of basketball skills and matchday pressures
- Natural embodiment of the athlete’s mindset and emotional highs
- Honest portrayal of the camaraderie and tensions that fuel true rivalries
Her involvement enhances the movie’s credibility and offers fans of the sport an enriching viewing experience.
Practical Tips: What Aspiring Women Athletes Can Learn from This Story
The narrative behind the movie and Paige’s own career offer valuable lessons for young women pushing boundaries in sports:
- Focus on Skill Progress: Continuous advancement wins championships.
- Embrace Competition: Rivalries fuel growth and push limits.
- Resilience: Overcome setbacks and stay motivated nonetheless of challenges.
- teamwork: Success is built on trust and cooperation with teammates.
- Leadership: Lead by example both on and off the court.
What Fans Can Expect: Movie Highlights and Release Details
though official release dates and full casting details remain under wraps,early reports suggest the movie will feature:
- High-intensity basketball sequences choreographed by professional coaches
- Strong supporting cast including other athletes and celebrated actors
- A compelling original soundtrack featuring up-and-coming artists
- Behind-the-scenes looks at training,game day rituals,and personal struggles
PAIGE fans and basketball enthusiasts alike should prepare for a visually stunning and emotionally gripping sports drama.
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Impact on Women’s Basketball and Beyond
The intersection of Paige Bueckers’ sports career and Hollywood stardom marks a meaningful milestone for women’s basketball. this film helps to:
- Increase mainstream visibility of women’s sports
- inspire young girls to pursue competitive athletics
- Showcase the depth and passion within women’s basketball rivalries
- Encourage more media projects highlighting female athletes and sports stories
Who else is in the cast?
So far, no other names have been released, but I’m personally pulling for Bueckers’ fellow WNBA superstar Angel Reese, who recently made her own feature film debut in A House of Dynamite on Netflix. You know, right before she made her Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show runway debut as the first pro-athlete Victoria’s Secret Angel.
Though she only had a small role in the film, Reese told People she plans to continue acting and even hire an acting coach. “I was talking to Common—he’s overseas right now shooting season 2 of Silo—and he was telling me, ‘You got to hire an acting coach,” she said at A House of Dynamite’s New York Film Festival premiere on September 28. “I model already, so it’s like adding to the résumé. I’m young right now, so I’m going to do it while I’m young.”
Can’t you see the vision?
Steph Chambers/Getty Images
Though nothing’s been announced, this isn’t just wishful thinking on my part. Angel Reese and Paige Bueckers delighted WNBA fans when they linked up for a couple TikTok videos during the 2025 WNBA All-Star Weekend back in July. During a recent TikTok live, Reese teased yet another collaboration.
“Me and Paige [Bueckers] actually have something really big coming up together,” Reese said in October, per Sports Illustrated. “Stay tuned.” Consider us tuned in with our fingers crossed.
This post may be updated.
