The Pistol:  Pete Maravich

The NRB Network is pleased to present the thrilling story of American basketball player Pete Maravich, known for his dazzling ball handling and incredible shooting and passing abilities. Also known as "Pistol Pete," Maravich was named a three-time All-American and still holds many of these records, more than 35 years later. His story will air on Saturday evening, April 5th, during college basketball championship week.

The film, directed by Frank C. Schröder, shows Maravich as a little kid with big dreams. To him, anything is possible. The story centers on his 8th grade year, when Maravich played on the varsity team at Daniel High School. But there are some difficult obstacles standing in the way of his playing. The only support he has comes from his father, retired basketball pro Press Maravich.

“This is a terrific story about the little guy accomplishing huge goals,” says NRB Programming Director Allen Beckner. “With all the great players who have played college basketball, it’s probably a little-known fact that Pete Maravich holds the NCAA scoring record. What makes this wonderful story even better is how Maravich lived his life. It’s an inspirational story for the entire family.”

Born June 22, 1947, Maravich learned basketball at a very young age from his dad. After a leg injury forced him to leave basketball in the fall of 1980, he became a recluse for several years. Maravich told people he was searching "for life." He tried yoga and Hinduism, explored the life and beliefs of Trappist monk Thomas Merton, and even took to studying UFOs.

Then, in 1982, he became a born-again Christian. He began traveling around the country sharing his new-found faith in Jesus Christ. Maravich told people, "I want to be remembered as a Christian, a person who serves Him to the utmost. Not as a basketball player." He was named to the Hall of Fame in his early 40s, just a year before his untimely death from a heart defect.

This action-packed movie will encourage and inspire your Christian faith.

For further details on when this program airs, please see our Program Schedule.  For more information on this movie, please visit www.pistolmovie.com.