Documentary backdrop image for Benji (2012)

201279 min0documentary

7.8/ 10(5 ratings)• TMDB

Gun Violence

Deep Dive

Benji

201279 min0documentary

7.8/ 10(5 ratings)• TMDB

Deep Dive

669 people were murdered in Chicago in 1984, including promising basketball player Ben Wilson, who was shot the day before his senior season began.

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Synopsis

669 people were murdered in Chicago in 1984, including promising basketball player Ben Wilson, who was shot the day before his senior season began.

People

Chike Ozahdirector

Coodie Simmonsdirector

Synopsis

Ben Wilson played for Simeon Career Academy in Chicago and was considered the best high school basketball player in the nation in 1985. His life ended tragically when he was shot in November 1984, just before his senior season. The documentary includes interviews with players like Nick Anderson and Jabari Parker, and it reflects on Wilson's legacy and the community’s response to his murder, which sparked renewed activism in Chicago.

Deep Dive

Why Watch

See the impact of Ben Wilson's life on Chicago youth.
Meet key figures like Nick Anderson and Jabari Parker.
Find out how Wilson's death changed community activism.

Did You Know

Ben Wilson was shot and killed the day before his senior season began.
Wilson was recognized as the best American high school basketball player in 1985.
The wake and funeral for Wilson gathered thousands of Chicagoans.
Derrick Rose wore Wilson's number 25 while playing for Simeon.

Perfect For

Basketball historyChicago cultureYouth violence awareness

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Frequently Asked Questions

When did the documentary about Ben Wilson premiere?

The documentary premiered at the Tribeca/ESPN Sports Film Festival on April 20, 2012.

What was Ben Wilson recognized for in high school basketball?

Ben Wilson was recognized as the best American high school basketball player in the national class of 1985 and was selected as the 1984 National Junior of the Year.

What tragic event occurred the day before Ben Wilson's senior season?

Ben Wilson was shot and killed following an altercation with other youths near Simeon the day before his senior season was to begin.

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