The new NBA documentary chronicling the basketball dreams of four West African teens, ‘Elevate,’ is set to hit theaters in a limited release on October 21 in New York. The film, which was directed by Anne Buford and is being distributed by Variance Films, will have a wider opening in Los Angeles and other markets across America on November 4.

‘Elevate’ documents the struggle the four teens face in order to make their NBC dreams a reality. They study at the SEEDS Academy in Dakar, Senegal, which the best basketball players from across West Africa attend to take a strenuous program of academics and athletic training. For the top four students, they receive a scholarship to the top prep schools in the United States, where the right skills and dedication will lead to a college education and open the door to basketball at the NCAA level. The students may even have a shot at the NBA.

‘The four-year journey of the four students who were selected to receive scholarships and travel to the U.S. is documented in ‘Elevate.’ The students face challenges upon arriving in America, including a change in culture and basketball style and having to master English. The documentary aims to challenge the viewers’ conception of Africa, America and athletes.

Written by: Karen Benardello