BREAKING: Obi Toppin Inks $13.5 Million Deal With Netflix for 7-Episode Docuseries Chronicling His Journey With the Indiana Pacers
LOS ANGELES, CA – July 12, 2025
In a groundbreaking crossover between professional basketball and streaming entertainment, Indiana Pacers power forward Obi Toppin has officially signed a $13.5 million deal with Netflix to produce a seven-episode docuseries detailing his remarkable rise, personal challenges, and pivotal role in the resurgence of the Indiana Pacers franchise.
Titled “Above the Rim: The Obi Toppin Story,” the series is already in production and is set to premiere in early 2026. The deal not only marks one of the most lucrative athlete-driven content partnerships in recent streaming history, but it also represents a new chapter in storytelling for the NBA — one that blends the raw emotion of the game with behind-the-scenes access that fans crave.
From Dayton to Downtown Indy
Obi Toppin’s journey began in relative obscurity. After redshirting his freshman year at the University of Dayton, he exploded onto the national scene, becoming one of college basketball’s most electrifying players. Known for his high-flying dunks, relentless motor, and infectious energy, he earned the 2020 Naismith Player of the Year award before being drafted 8th overall by the New York Knicks.
However, it was the 2023 trade to the Indiana Pacers that truly ignited his professional trajectory. The Netflix series will highlight this pivotal moment — a move that brought him into a dynamic young core alongside Tyrese Haliburton and Bennedict Mathurin. Toppin’s performance with the Pacers, including career-high scoring averages and postseason breakthroughs, redefined his career and won over fans across Indiana and beyond.
A Docuseries with Depth
According to early production notes, “Above the Rim” will delve deeper than just the highlights. It will explore Toppin’s struggles with doubt early in his NBA career, his close relationship with his family — especially his younger brother Jacob Toppin, also an NBA player — and the mental and physical toll of life in the league.
In an exclusive interview with ESPN, Toppin said, “This isn’t just about me dunking or scoring. This is about growth. About finding my place in the league, in the world, and being a light for the next generation coming behind me.”
The series is being co-produced by SpringHill Entertainment, LeBron James’ media company, along with Uninterrupted and 48th & Vine Studios. Directors have promised an emotional, cinematic journey that blends game footage, interviews, and never-before-seen access to locker rooms, training sessions, and personal moments at home.
The Business of Basketball Storytelling
Toppin’s Netflix deal reflects a rising trend of athletes expanding their brand through storytelling and media ownership. Following in the footsteps of stars like Michael Jordan (The Last Dance) and Klay Thompson (Above the Waves), Toppin is stepping into a powerful space — one where players control their narrative and legacy.
“Obi’s story is raw, inspiring, and still unfolding,” said Tara Wilson, Netflix VP of Sports Content. “We saw in him not just a great athlete, but a voice this generation needs — honest, hardworking, and humble.”
Fan Reactions and What’s Next
Social media exploded within minutes of the announcement, with fans, teammates, and fellow players offering congratulations. “#ObiOnNetflix” trended worldwide for several hours, with clips of his signature alley-oop finishes going viral.
As for Toppin, the Pacers forward is already back in training, preparing for what many believe could be a breakout 2025–26 season. And with Netflix cameras following his every move, fans everywhere will be watching more closely than ever.
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