The Underdog” — Netflix’s Upcoming Documentary on Caitlin Clark
Netflix is gearing up for what promises to be a pivotal moment in women’s sports storytelling—“The Underdog,” an intimate and powerful documentary on rising WNBA star Caitlin Clark, set for a global release on July 18, 2025 .
Clark, who became a household name after a historic collegiate career at the University of Iowa, was selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft by the Indiana Fever. Since then, she’s become a dynamic force in the league, driving surging ticket sales, high TV ratings, and renewed cultural relevance for the WNBA .
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What to Expect from “The Underdog”
Deeply Personal Portrait
The film promises an intimate exploration of Clark beyond the stat lines and highlight reels. Expect candid moments of her meteoric rise, personal struggles, and the emotional resilience that has defined her journey.
On-Court Excellence, Plus Off-Court Insight
The documentary aims to capture not only Clark’s fierce competitiveness and skill but also what lies behind it: the grind of her training, film sessions, and commitment to excellence. Viewers will likely see the discipline that fuels her elite performance .
Contextualizing a Movement
Clark’s emergence amplifies a broader momentum within women’s basketball. The film is expected to situate her story within the WNBA’s ongoing growth—heightened visibility, expanded media coverage, and a generation of women breaking new ground .
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Why This Documentary Matters
1. A Star at the Center of a Cultural Wave
Caitlin Clark isn’t just a basketball player—she’s become a cultural icon. Her presence symbolizes a new era in women’s sports, one where players shape mainstream narratives and fan engagement.
2. An Inside Look at the Cost of Greatness
Fans will get a behind-the-scenes view of what it truly takes to excel—from physical training to mental preparation and the personal sacrifices made along the way.
3. Educational and Inspirational Storytelling
By weaving in testimonials from coaches, teammates, media figures, and basketball legends, the documentary promises context and depth—showcasing Clark’s rise in a larger ecosystem that fuels women’s sports.
4. A Global Platform at a Time of Peak Interest
Releasing during a period of extraordinary surge in WNBA interest, “The Underdog” isn’t just airing—it’s arriving at the perfect cultural moment. It’s more than a film; it’s a statement.
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Context—Other Documentaries in the Space
This isn’t Netflix’s first foray into women’s basketball storytelling. Recently, the streamer premiered “SUE BIRD: In the Clutch”, a Sundance-buzzed look at one of WNBA’s legends, offering reflective storytelling through career achievements and activism . Netflix also announced “Staley: Built Different,” directed by Ava DuVernay, chronicling Dawn Staley’s journey as both a WNBA star and a championship-winning college coach, premiered May 17, 2025 . And while not Netflix, Amazon’s “Power of the Dream” captured WNBA players’ off-court activism during the 2020 BLM movement, offering a bold, vulnerable lens on athlete advocacy .
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Final Thoughts
With “The Underdog”, Netflix brings Canada’s global attention to one of women’s basketball’s most electrifying figures. The July 18, 2025 premiere isn’t just a date—it marks a cultural moment. This documentary promises to go beyond the box score, offering a nuanced look at Caitlin Clark’s rise and the evolving landscape of women’s basketball.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering Clark’s story, prepare for a cinematic journey that celebrates perseverance, power, and progress—on and off the basketball court.
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Release Info at a Glance
Title: The Underdog
Subject: Caitlin Clark
Premiere: July 18, 2025 (worldwide via Netflix)
Focus: Personal journey, athletic process, cultural impact