30 for 30: I Hate Christian Laettner

About 30 for 30: I Hate Christian Laettner

The 2015 ESPN documentary film, "30 for 30: I Hate Christian Laettner" is built on the enmity a segment of American basketball fans hold for former Duke University basketball player, Christian Laettner. The film uses the persona of Christian Laettner, a white player who excelled in the black-dominated sport, to delve into the deeper societal issues that gave birth to such intense hatred. The film covers the pivotal games and moments that defined Laettner's basketball career while also shedding light on his persona and personality behind the scenes.

Making / Production

The film was directed by Rory Karpf and produced as part of ESPN's 30 for 30 series. The series gives an in-depth depiction of the great sporting stories with a keen insight into the socio-cultural influences associated with sports.

Actors

• Christian Laettner - As himself, Laettner candidly discusses his career, experiences, and perceptions of the hate he garnered during his time at Duke University.
• Mike Krzyzewski - Playing himself, Coach K talks about his experiences coaching Laettner and his perspective on the divisive reception Laettner received.
• Bobby Hurley - As himself, Hurley shares insights from his time playing alongside Laettner at Duke.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The title of the documentary, "I Hate Christian Laettner", is a reference to the popular chant that opposing fans used to use during Duke games.
• Despite the film's title, it seeks to provide a balanced view rather than solely focusing on negative aspects of Laettner's persona and career.
• Laettner and the Duke team were known as "The Blue Devils", a nickname that only added to the animosity from opposing fans.

Awards

"30 for 30: I Hate Christian Laettner" did not receive any major awards but it was well received by audiences and critics for its unique exploration of sports fandom and societal prejudices.

Quotes

• "I didn't hate Laettner. I just hated that he played for Duke." - Anonymous fan
• "Christian had a swagger that people didn't like." - Mike Krzyzewski
• "The reason why people didn't like me is because I was really good." - Christian Laettner

Music, Soundtrack

The film used several contemporary tracks to maintain the sports documentary theme and propel the narrative. Specific songs used are not made publicly known.