Today’s episode of the Sports Business Classroom Audio Experience is hosted by VSL alumni Alex Cocoros, who sits down with filmmakers Peter Pan and Kaylee Smith to discuss their documentary, Hoops of Heritage. Kaylee, a VSL alumni, and Peter, who will be working with Vegas Summer League (VSL) this year alongside participating in the Summer League Film Festival (SLFF), reflect on the past few months of filming and what this experience has meant to them.
In the episode, they discuss:
- How Kaylee and her Summer League roommate and Serbian Pro Sports Team Host, Minja Zeljkovic, curated the film idea and brought the vision to life with Peter
- The unforgettable basketball culture in Serbia and how the atmosphere exceeded expectations.
- The impact of VSL connections on their filmmaking journey and career growth.
- What makes the SLFF unique and how filmmakers can improve their chances of selection.
They also explore the process of bringing Hoops of Heritage to life, sharing personal reflections on the challenges and rewards of capturing such a powerful story. As Hoops of Heritage prepares to premiere in Las Vegas, the excitement builds for thousands of fans to witness their work on the big screen.
If you’re a filmmaker looking to submit your work or want to learn more about the SLFF experience, be sure to stay connected!
WHERE TO LISTEN
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SHOW NOTES
- A reflection on the past few months and what the experience of filming Hoops of Heritage has meant to the team. (01:29)
The Serbian basketball game and its atmosphere went beyond expectations, creating an unforgettable experience. (02:47) - Kaylee shares how her interest in this story began and what inspired her to bring it to life. (04:21)
- Kaylee discusses the impact of VSL on her journey and the valuable connections she has made. (05:57)
- Peter opens up about his initial hesitations before taking the trip to Serbia. (07:21)
- A look at what makes the SLFF unique compared to other film festivals and the benefits for filmmakers who submit their work. (08:37)
- Insights into the selection process and what filmmakers should focus on to increase their chances of being featured. (11:03)
- The realization that thousands of fans in Las Vegas will be watching Hoops of Heritage and the hard work behind it. (12:26)
- The core message the team hopes audiences will take away from the documentary. (15:24)
- An overview of what filmmakers can expect from the SLFF experience when submitting their films. (16:48)
