JULY 16-18, 2026 | STRIP VIEW PAVILION

The 2026 Summer League Film Festival was an extraordinary showcase of sports, film and culture held during annual NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, NV.

The festival showcased projects from all aspects of life and the impact sports has on our society.

2026 SUMMER LEAGUE FILM FESTIVAL WINNERS

This year’s festival featured 27 films highlighting the passion, perseverance, and personal journeys in sports, produced and directed by athletes and storytellers from around the world. The winning films represent the very best in sports storytelling across documentary, narrative, and social impact categories.

Grindavík

Directed by:
Garðar Örn Arnarson

Last Shot

Directed by:
Andy Palmer

The Kid From Boston

Directed by:
Alex Stoddard

Ballelujah

Directed by:
Ori Evans

Unraveling George

Directed by:
Michael Tollin

Full Court Shadow

Directed by:
Rick Cipes

All The Empty Rooms

Directed by:
Joshua Seftel

Soul Power

Directed by:
Kenan Kamwana Holley

The Lost Dream Team

Directed by:
Jure Pavlović

Little Giant

Directed by:
Jeremy James Conte

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:

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

VEGAS 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.)

VEGAS SUMMER LEAGUE FILM FESTIVAL AWARDS & PRIZES

Best Narrative Feature

Best Documentary Feature

Best Narrative Short

Best Documentary Short

Audience Choice Award