Andre Braugher Stars In TV Movie, `Passing Glory,' About Black Priest Who Challenged Segregation In New Orleans Through Basketball

Jet, March 1, 1999

Actor Andre Braugher stars in Passing Glory, the true story of how Father Joseph Verrett (Braugher), a high school basketball coach, ignites the sparks of a Civil Rights Movement in New Orleans when in 1965 he organizes a game between his own undefeated Black high school team, St. Augustine, and an undefeated White team, Jesuit.

The two-hour movie is scheduled to premiere Feb. 21 on Turner Network Television (TNT).

Along with his star player Travis Porter (Sean Squire), Fr. Verrett must overcome residents' fears and prejudices and change the established social order.

The movie also stars Ruby Dee, Rip Torn, Bill Nunn, Daniel Hugh Kelly and Khalil Kain. Arthur Agee of Hoop Dreams fame also is featured.

Directed by Steve James, the movie is executive-produced by Magic Johnson, Quincy Jones and David Salzman. Its co-executive producer is David A. Rosemont. Harold Sylvester, a graduate of St. Augustine High School, is the film's writer.