Netflix has delivered a captivating and compelling documentary chronicling the triumphant 1995-96 season of the Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball team, led by the legendary coach Rick Pitino. Released in early 2025, the film, tentatively titled The Untouchables, immerses viewers in one of the most storied chapters in college basketball history, celebrating the team’s remarkable journey to the NCAA Championship. With stunning visuals, intimate interviews, and rare archival footage, the documentary captures the resilience, talent, and unrelenting spirit that defined Pitino’s squad, known for its only two losses en route to a 34-2 season. Big Blue Nation has embraced the release, with fans on X hailing it as a “must-watch tribute to a legendary era.”
The documentary opens with the context of Kentucky’s basketball program in the late 1980s, reeling from NCAA sanctions under former coach Eddie Sutton. Pitino’s arrival in 1989 marked a turning point, and by 1995-96, his high-octane, full-court press style had transformed the Wildcats into a powerhouse. The film highlights key moments, including the season’s defining 27-game win streak and the electrifying 76-67 victory over Syracuse in the national championship game. Narrated with emotional depth, it features insights from Pitino, who reflects on the pressure of coaching a team dubbed “The Untouchables,” alongside players like Tony Delk, Antoine Walker, and Mark Pope, whose perspectives add layers of authenticity.
A standout element is the focus on the team’s depth, with nine players eventually reaching the NBA, a testament to Pitino’s recruiting and development acumen. The documentary delves into the camaraderie and competitive fire that fueled their success, from Delk’s 24-point Final Four performance to Walker’s clutch rebounding. It also explores the cultural impact, portraying how the championship galvanized a state and restored Kentucky’s basketball pride. Fans on X have praised the storytelling, with one post noting, “This doc brings back the chills of ‘96—Pitino’s masterpiece!”
The film doesn’t shy away from challenges, including the early-season loss to UMass and the SEC title game defeat to Mississippi State, which only heightened the stakes. Behind-the-scenes footage reveals Pitino’s intensity and the players’ response, offering a nuanced look at leadership under pressure. The inclusion of Cameron Mills’ perspective, from his 2016 documentary The Team, enriches the narrative, reinforcing the belief among players that they were the best modern-era team. This aligns with Dick Gabriel’s commentary, emphasizing their dominance, averaging over 22 points per game in victories.
As Kentucky basketball thrives under Mark Pope in 2025—bolstered by Otega Oweh’s return and Pitino’s $500 million donation—the documentary serves as a timely reminder of the program’s legacy. It bridges past and present, resonating with a new generation while honoring a golden era. Available on Netflix as of June 2025, The Untouchables is more than a sports film; it’s a celebration of resilience, teamwork, and the enduring spirit of the Wildcats, leaving fans eager for the next chapter in Lexington’s storied history.
