A compelling new film, The Boy from St. Croix, offers a rare, intimate portrait of basketball legend Tim Duncan—and the small Caribbean island that shaped him. Directed by his brother, Scott Duncan, the documentary digs beyond the superstar’s on-court accomplishments to explore his roots, values and journey from humble beginnings to one of the most decorated careers in sports.
The story behind the film
The documentary is set to debut at the Austin Film Festival between October 23-30, 2025, marking its world premiere. In collaboration with production houses Rasta Magic and Words + Pictures, the film includes a combination of never-before-seen home videos, retrospective interviews and scenic cinematography focused on Duncan’s native island of St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Scott Duncan brings his own storytelling background—he has built an Emmy-winning career in documentary and television work—to this deeply personal project. “I’ve been fortunate to film with thousands of athletes … none of them have fascinated me and challenged me as a filmmaker as much as my brother,” he remarks.
What the film promises
The Boy from St. Croix promises to reveal facets of Tim Duncan that even most fans don’t know: his upbringing on St. Croix, the moment his athletic path shifted (from aspiring Olympic swimmer to basketball standout) and the quiet, determined character that earned him the nickname “The Big Fundamental.” It features interviews with NBA luminaries—including Gregg Popovich, David Robinson, Tony Parker and Manu Ginóbili—who reflect on Duncan’s impact, both on the game and behind the scenes.
Beyond basketball, the film emphasizes the enduring link between Duncan and St. Croix—how the island shaped his identity, values and decision-making. It frames his 19-year career with the San Antonio Spurs not just as a string of athletic achievements but as a lifelong conversation with home, humility and legacy.
Why it matters
For many, Duncan remains something of an enigma. A five-time NBA champion, three-time Finals MVP and two-time regular-season MVP, he is widely regarded as one of the greatest power forwards of all time—yet he has never sought the spotlight the way so many other stars do. The film challenges that reticence, giving viewers a chance to see the man beyond the legend.
Moreover, the perspective of a sibling-director adds added depth and authenticity. Scott Duncan’s access is unmatched, and the resulting narrative leans into the profound interplay between personal history and public persona.
What to watch for
- Archival footage of St. Croix, enabling viewers to connect with Duncan’s early life and the environment that nurtured his talent.
- Candid conversations between Tim and Scott—unique because of the family relationship and the filmmaker’s patience and long-term commitment to the story.
- Reflections on pivotal moments: choosing basketball after Hurricane Hugo destroyed the island’s only Olympic-sized pool, which altered his athletic path forever.
- Moments of vulnerability: insights into the pressures of professional sport, the sacrifices made, and the quiet leadership model Duncan embodied.
- A visual aesthetic that blends sport-documentary energy with Caribbean landscapes and cultural context.
Final thoughts
The Boy from St. Croix is more than a standard sports documentary. It’s both a journey and an exploration—of sibling bonds, of island heritage, of what it means to excel while staying grounded. Whether you’re a basketball fan, a lover of personal stories or someone intrigued by journeys that transcend fame, this film promises to deliver something meaningful.
If you like, I can check for trailer links, screening dates beyond the festival, and eventual streaming/release info.
Sources: Air Alamo & saobserver & KSAT & San Antonio Express-News
Pictures from Yahoo Sports