JULY 16-18, 2026 | STRIP VIEW PAVILION

Join us for an extraordinary showcase of sports, film and culture at the 2026 Summer League Film Festival, held during annual NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, NV.

Daily screenings will originate at the Strip View Pavilion inside the Thomas & Mack Center.

This festival showcases projects from all aspects of life and the impact sports has on our society. The Summer League Film Festival is not limited to basketball. We invite filmmakers to present stories that capture the passion, perseverance and personal journeys inherent in the world of sports.

SUMMER LEAGUE FILM FESTIVAL IN THE PRESS

Summer League Film Festival, Backed by Mark Wahlberg and Kevin Garnett’s Studios, Unveils Winners

Summer League Film Festival, Backed by Mark Wahlberg and Kevin Garnett’s Studios, Unveils Winners

Hollywood meets NBA hardwood: A look inside the rise of the Summer League Film Festival

Hollywood meets NBA hardwood: A look inside the rise of the Summer League Film Festival

NBA Summer League Brings Hoops, and Kevin Garnett Assists with Film Festival

NBA Summer League Brings Hoops, and Kevin Garnett Assists with Film Festival

Organizer Shares How Collaborative Summer League Film Festival Came Together in Las Vegas

Organizer Shares How Collaborative Summer League Film Festival Came Together in Las Vegas

NBA stars to turn filmmakers at Summer League fest with Kevin Garnett, Mark Wahlberg and Deon Taylor

NBA stars to turn filmmakers at Summer League fest with Kevin Garnett, Mark Wahlberg and Deon Taylor

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SHOWCASE YOUR FILM AT THE 2026 VEGAS SUMMER LEAGUE FILM FESTIVAL

Calling All Sports Film Directors & Storytellers:
Applications are now open to submit your project to showcase at the 2026 Vegas Summer League Film Festival.

We are seeking films which offer originality, fresh perspectives and untold stories within the sports world. Whether it’s an underdog’s journey to triumph, an exploration of the cultural impact of sports on communities, or a deep dive into the personal struggles and victories of athletes off the field, we want narratives that resonate on a human level.

We anticipate several studios and decision makers on site, and all selected filmmakers will receive an invite to a private SLFF Tip Off event, attended by top athletes, agents, and industry professionals.

For more information on event details, rules, submission requirements, submission fees and deadlines, please click the button below:

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

SUMMER LEAGUE FILM FESTIVAL CATEGORIES

Narrative Shorts (Max. Runtime: 20 min.)

Documentary Shorts (Max. Runtime: 20 min.)

Narrative Feature (Max. Runtime: 120 min.)

Documentary Feature (Max Runtime: 120 min.)

SUMMER LEAGUE FILM FESTIVAL AWARDS & PRIZES

Best Documentary Feature

Awarded to the documentary feature film that provides the most compelling insight into the world of sports, culture or athlete experience.

Best Documentary Short

Awarded to the documentary short film that provides a profound glimpse into the world of sports, culture or athlete experience.

Best Narrative Feature

Awarded to the narrative feature film that exemplifies excellence in storytelling, direction and production within the sports genre.

Best Narrative Short

Awarded to the narrative short film that exemplifies excellence and efficiency in storytelling, direction and production within the sports genre.

Prestige Audience Award

Presented to a film in any category which recognizes an outstanding story and its resounding connection to the growth of modern sports culture.

Social Impact Award

Presented to a documentary that, through bold storytelling and cinematic craft, seeks to honor civil rights struggles, amplify marginalized voices, and spark dialogue around justice and equity in sports and around the world.

Game Changer Award

Awarded to a documentary film that shines a light on the lesser-known corners of basketball history and/or reflects a substantial contribution with lasting impact toward the evolution of modern day basketball.

Click here to view past winners