Directed by renowned filmmaker Sam Pollard, "The League" is a captivating documentary that delves into the vibrant history of Negro League baseball during the first half of the twentieth century. Executive produced by Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson, Mark Cuban, Todd Wagner, and Tariq Trotter, and produced by RadicalMedia, this film sheds light on the triumphs and obstacles faced by African American players in the face of segregation.

Through a masterful blend of previously unearthed archival footage and never-before-seen interviews, "The League" presents the stories of legendary players like Satchel Paige and Buck O'Neil, who paved the way for the integration of baseball, as well as celebrated Hall of Famers Willie Mays and Hank Aaron, who began their careers in the Negro Leagues. The documentary also explores the influential figures behind the scenes, such as entrepreneurial titans Cumberland Posey and Gus Greenlee, and Effa Manley, the activist owner of the Newark Eagles and the first woman to be admitted to the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

"The League" goes beyond the game itself, delving into the economic and social significance of Black baseball within African American communities. It examines the unintended consequences of integration and the impact it had on the Negro Leagues, which served as pillars of strength and sources of entertainment for Black Americans.

Director Sam Pollard shares his vision for the film, stating that he aimed to amplify the voices of former Negro League players by combining their narratives with historical context and captivating visuals. Through interviews conducted by Byron Motley, son of Negro League umpire Bob Motley, the film offers a treasure trove of firsthand accounts that enrich the storytelling experience.

This feature-length documentary brings to light the complexity and intrigue of Black baseball, revealing that its roots stretch back to the Civil War era. It unveils the pioneering efforts of individuals like Andrew Rube Foster, who formed the first Negro National League, and highlights the fierce rivalries and exhilarating matchups that captivated audiences during the era of the Great Depression.

"The League" also confronts the challenges faced by African American players during World War II and the subsequent integration of Major League Baseball, which led to the decline of the Negro Leagues. It portrays the broader social and economic impact of integration on Black communities, while celebrating the legacy and resilience of the Negro Leagues.

With its powerful storytelling and compelling historical insights, "The League" offers a comprehensive exploration of Black baseball's journey, celebrating its triumphs and shedding light on the untold stories of the players who shaped the game and the community around it.