'Rez Ball' Ending Explained: Do Chuska Warriors win the tournament? Netflix film delivers heartwarming climax
Contains spoilers for 'Rez Ball'
CHUSKA, NEW MEXICO: Netflix's 'Rez Ball' is directed by Sydney Freeland and based on Michael Powell's book 'Canyon Dreams'. This emotional drama follows the Chuska Warriors, a New Mexico basketball team from the Navajo Nation, known for their dynamic 'Rez Ball' style - fast-paced and free-wheeling.
Led by Coach Heather Hobbs, they aim to win the State Championship, but tragedy strikes when star player Nataanii dies by suicide. Heather must rally her players, helping them overcome grief and find their footing again, showcasing resilience, community, and the true spirit of 'Rez Ball'.
What brought the team together in 'Rez Ball'?
After Jimmy took some key initiatives, the team's coordination noticeably improved. One day, Heather brought everyone to her grandma's farm to help herd sheep. At first, the boys were lost and unsure, but Jimmy quickly came up with a plan. He taught them how to work together to guide the sheep back to the barn. He also showed confidence in his teammates, assigning Kobe to lead the group. This experience helped the team bond and focus on a shared goal.
Jimmy soon realized that learning his native language, Navajo would help him communicate better with his team. Krista, his co-worker at the fast food joint, offered to help him practice. Jimmy applied what he learned from herding the sheep, using their native language to communicate in their next game. The strategy worked wonders. Their opponents couldn’t crack their code, team coordination soared, and every player performed at their peak, leading to an effortless win.
How did Gloria get her life back on track in 'Rez Ball'?
Gloria Holiday, once a reservation basketball star, had lost her passion for the sport. Her unbeatable record remained, but life beyond the reservation hadn't lived up to her dreams. Struggling with alcohol addiction and DUI cases, Gloria was confined to the reservation. Her son Jimmy took on household responsibilities as she drifted through life. Determined to change, Gloria sought help and found a job at Ronald Jackson's garage. As a former addict, Ronald understood her struggles and gave her a second chance. Grateful, Gloria turned her life around, affording groceries and receiving a car from Ronald. Despite fears for Jimmy's future in basketball, she vowed to support him. Defying court restrictions, Gloria traveled to Albuquerque for Jimmy's final match but was arrested and spent the night in jail. A sympathetic Native American officer allowed her to listen to the game on the radio, rekindling her connection to her son and her past love for basketball.
Did the Chuska Warriors win the final match?
Before the championship game, Jimmy visited the special spot he shared with Nataanii, feeling his friend's presence. Winning wasn't just for the team but for Nataanii's legacy. Jimmy wanted to bring home the trophy for his friend. Jimmy gave Krista a ticket, confessing his crush, and was relieved when she showed interest. He also left one for his mom, despite her past mistakes. At the stadium, Jimmy was overwhelmed by the community's support. The opponent, Santa Fe Catholic, had studied the Chuska Warriors' Navajo codes and adopted their Rez Ball style. Coach Heather rallied the team, reminding them they were the true masters of Rez Ball.
In a tense finale, Jimmy faced off against Mason Troy. After a foul, Jimmy had three free throws. But his mother's words of doubt crept in, weakening his first attempt. Before the third shot, Jimmy shook off all the doubts, deciding to take a chance. With newfound determination, he scored, securing the Chuska Warriors' victory. Jimmy refused to accept defeat before trying, embracing the unknown challenges beyond the reservation.
How did 'Rez Ball' end?
The Chuska Warriors celebrated their 'Rez Ball' championship, knowing their lives would never be the same. Jimmy woke up to the sound of a dribbling basketball and looked out to see his mother, Gloria, playing for the first time. Her transformation was evident, and Jimmy beamed with pride. Gloria's newfound hope was real and felt genuine. She believed Jimmy would achieve the success that eluded her. Recruitment offers flooded Jimmy's mailbox, promising a brighter future. With determination and community support, Jimmy is now all set to fulfill his mother's dreams and become an inspiration to their reservation, paving a new path forward.
'Rez Ball' trailer