MAN ON PA: Please welcome the 2013-14 Kia NBA Most Valuable Player, Kevin Durant. (CHEERING, APPLAUSE) I come from a small county outside of Washington, DC, called PG County, and... me, my mom and my brother, we moved so many different places, growing up, it felt like a box; it felt like there was no getting out. (FUNK MUSIC) You've taught me to feel confident in myself, believe in myself, that I can do it,... (SIREN WAILS IN DISTANCE) ...when I didn't think I could do it. And that builds me up, and I thank you so much. I love you. Captions by James Brown. www.able.co.nz Captions were made with the support of NZ On Air. Copyright Able 2017 (BABY CRIES) 'A single parent with two boys by the time you were 21 years old.' (MUSIC FADES) (BABY FUSSES) (DOOR OPENS) (DOOR CLOSES) (BABY CRIES) Baby. When something good happens to you, I don't know about you guys, but I tend to look back to what brought me here. I told you Wayne wasn't going to show up. Can we not do this tonight? If you don't want to do it for you, do it for your children. That don't deserve a father that keeps disappointing them. I didn't let father to do it to you, so why are you allowing Wayne to do it to them? Because maybe not having a father at all isn't better, Mama. BOY IN OTHER ROOM: Open your presents! (SIGHS) I can't do it. Go get yourself together. I'll keep them busy. (CHILDREN LAUGH IN OTHER ROOM) Who wants some cake? CHILDREN: Me! MAN ON RADIO: Drive time here in DC. Good music, good movement, get home safe. And now here's a little go-go music to make that ride smooth. (SCOFFS) Ma, the rent on all these two-bedroom apartments is way too high. Now, we talked about this, Wanda. I gave you six months to find your own place. You have two boys, and I need you to grow up. Ma, how am I gonna manage it on my own? You got a job. Now you just have to learn how to spend your money wisely. 'Spend your money more wisely. Spend your money more wisely.' That's what you're always saying. (SCOFFS) Make it sound so easy. Oh no, there's nothing easy about it. But God is with you, and I have faith in you. Mama, I'm hungry. Me too. Me three. (LAUGHS) Lasagne in 10 minutes. I can taste it already. (CHUCKLES) (PHONE RINGS) Mm! Mm-mm-mm. Hello? WOMAN ON PHONE: Hey, Wanda. Hey, Demetria. It's happening tonight. What? No, really? Tonight? Mm-hm. Aw. I don't know. Cos I gotta put the kids to bed, and I need to feed 'em first. Just ask your mom! Yeah, OK, let me ask. Hey, Ma, you think you can watch the kids for two hours? Demetria's saying that she thinks tonight that Reggie's gonna propose to her. Can you believe this? What about that conversation did you not understand? No, Mama, I heard what you said. Like I just said, Demetria's saying that Reggie might be proposing to her, and she wanna look good. And you know I can do hair really good. Please, Ma? Just two hours. Hm? (SIGHS) You be back here by 9 o'clock, so you can get those boys into bed. OK, thanks, Ma. Hey, girl. You coming? Yeah, I'm on the way. Bye. You're late. Sorry. Demetria's hair is thick, you know. That's your excuse ` thick hair? I don't mind babysitting, Wanda. You know I love those children. But I do mind being taken advantage of. I said I was sorry, Ma. You're always sorry, and nothing changes. You were with Wayne, weren't you? You lied to me about Wayne. That is unacceptable. No, Ma, Reggie did propose, and we went out to celebrate, and Wayne just showed up. You gon' learn. I don't know if it's the hard way or the easy way, but whatever way it is, it is not gonna be in this house! You want us out of here so badly, we'll get out of your way tonight! I can't believe you. That man left you and those boys, and you're still wearing his ring? Tony. Tony. Put on your shoes and help Kevin with his; we're leaving. In our pyjamas? Yes. Just do as you're told. Where are my shoes? Stop being so dramatic and let these boys go back to sleep. We'll talk about this in the morning. You'll still want us out of here, so why wait? Because you need a plan. You're in the situation because you can't see past today. Nothing is gonna change until you start thinking ahead, thinking about your future, about your children's future. Don't put this all on me. I'm not the one who walked out on my kids. You don't get brownie points by doing the least that is required as a parent, Wanda. Message received, Mama. Oh no, it hasn't ` not if you're leaving at two in the middle of the night and no plan. We'll be fine. You don't have to worry about us any more. Yeah, but where you going, huh? We're leaving this house! Come on, babies. Sorry. Come on. Go, baby. But where you going? Huh? (DOOR OPENS) Wanda? Wanda! (DOOR SLAMS) (SIREN WAILS) What are you talking about? I don't have anywhere else to go, Wayne. (SIGHS) I guess tonight didn't mean anything to you. (PHONE CALL DISCONNECTS) I'm so stupid to think it did. (CAR ALARM BLARES) - (MEN CHATTER) - (PAGER BLEEPS) Daddy said no? No, baby, he wasn't home. It'll be OK. Let's just go back to Grandma's. (PAGER BLEEPS) Mama, I'm cold. I'll turn on the heat, OK, baby? Please just tell Grandma you're sorry. I wanna go home. OK. MAN: What's up, little man? (SIGHS) Hi, Grandma. Love you, Grandma. Come here, baby. Come here. We'll work it all out. Come on, boys, let Grandma take you to bed. You ready to go to bed? Mm-hm. Ready to go to sleep? I'm gonna sing you to sleep, OK? Mm-hm. # Jesus loves me ` this I know, # for the Bible tells me so. # Little ones to him belong. # There are weak, # but he is strong. # You've been up all night? Yeah. Yeah, you wanted me to put together a plan, so I did a monthly budget, which includes rent. So, we can make it on my job at the post office, but that's not enough to put anything away ` not even a little bit. I was thinking, maybe I can do hair on the side. I mean, I know I don't have a licence, but my girlfriends know what I can do, and they can help me pass around the word. I think that's a great idea. With the extra money I make, plus what I make at the post office, I think I'll have enough for rent and first deposit in 30 days. I'll even start paying you. (LAUGHS) Imagine all the goals and dreams that you can have by just looking ahead instead of looking backwards. Thanks, Mama. Just let me get through the next 30 days. OK, fine. I'm so proud of you. I'm gonna make breakfast. Mm. Yes. (CHUCKLES) Oh, thank goodness. (HIP-HOP MUSIC) Um, excuse me. Hey, my name's Wanda. I do hair. What's your name? I'm Amber. Hey, Amber. How much do they charge you to do your hair? $40. Girl, I could do your hair for half the price. And make it look better than this? Hell, yeah. Let me give you my number. Take this, and give it to your friends to. I appreciate it. Thank you. Thanks. (HIP-HOP MUSIC CONTINUES) Mm. Let me inspect your work. What do you think, Demetria? Ooh! That joint is tight! What? Oh! BOTH: Uh! Uh! Uh! What's the verdict? $650, Mama. Oh, Wanda, Wanda, Wanda. Oh, goodness, yes. (SIGHS) But the apartment is $700, Mama. Well, maybe the landlord will give you a discount. OK. Yeah. (BIRDS SING) (GENTLE MUSIC) (CHILDREN LAUGH IN DISTANCE) (SIGHS) This place is perfect. Yeah, but... I know I'm a little bit short, but I promise I'll get it. I don't do promises. OK. I have a crazy idea. And... (CLEARS THROAT) that is? (MUSIC CONTINUES) You look good. She looks great. Girl, you know your stuff! So, what do you think? My wife's hair once a month ` $50 off the rent. Oh, thank you. (BOTH SQUEAL) Girl, this is you! Isn't it? Oh! Whoa. Is it really ours? 'One of the best memories I have is when I moved into our first apartment. No bed, no furniture, and we just all sat in the living room and just hugged each other. It's huge without any furniture. Don't worry, baby, we're gonna get beds. I ain't worried. Just cos we have all this space for ourselves. Do you wanna see... the kitchen? Yeah. Let's race to it! (SIGHS) Our first home. Hey, boys, can you come in here? Come on, come to Mama. Sit down. So,... now that we've got our own house, we also need our own rules. So up here on the refrigerator we have two lists. The first list is your goals list. What are goals? Goals are your dreams. Exactly, baby. It's what you hope for. It's what you dream. And the second list up here is just as important as the other list. It's your chores list. Chores? Yes. We're not at Grandmama's house any more. She's not here to help us. It's just the three of us now, and I've got two jobs. I'm gonna need your help now more than ever. We got you, Mama. We'll also rotate the chores together, SINGSONG: ...because together we can do this, right? Right? Who loves you? BOTH: You. Me. Who loves you? You. Me. Exactly. OK, let's do it. Whoo! (UPLIFTING MUSIC) Hey, Mama. Hi, baby. Mm! The church had a sale. And then... Surprise! (LAUGHS) We bought you some stuff. Yeah, we can't have you sitting on the floor. Oh my goodness. Nah. Homey don't play dat. Thanks, y'all. Oh, this is so cute! (GRUNTS) (EXHALES) Hey, let me help you with that. Oh, thanks. How is the new place? All moved in? Yeah, but now I gotta find a way to do it on my own. You been getting any sleep with the new shift? Yeah. It's actually not so bad. I get home at 9am, so I sleep while the boys are at school. We spend the afternoons when we put them to bed. That's all right. Yeah. Oh, hey, by the way what's that sports programme you and Jamal were talking about yesterday? I wanna do something like that for my boys. Oh, yeah, that's the basketball programme that offer at the rec centre near your house. He said putting his boys and it was the best decision he ever made. Really? Mm-hm. Plus it's free. Huh. That's my price. Mm-hm. I'll get the info from him for you. OK. Thanks. Yeah. I hope they like basketball. 2 (GENTLE MUSIC) (SHOES SQUEAK ON GYM FLOOR) Wanda Pratt? Yeah. Coach Craig. Hey. Receptionist said your were enquiring about the basketball programme. Yes. Who are these young bloods? I'm Tony. Hey, Tony. I'm Kevin. Hi, Kevin. Nice to meet you boys. That's great. We'd love to have your boys in the programme. But you should know that I do see myself as much more of a role than just teaching the kids the game I make them set goals on and off the court. I check in with them on school If there's any issues that need to be addressed, I let the parents know. Also, I'm not here to be their babysitter if you have other things you need to do. No. I want and expect all parents to be involved in the programme. Coach, you don't know me. I am a single mom, but if you think today is gonna be last time you'll see me, it won't be. My boys will always mean more to me than they'll ever mean to you. All right, perfect. All right. Welcome to the centre. Great. Who's ready for some basketball? Me! All right! All right, let's do it. You ready? Yeah. OK. I'll show you around. # Oo-ooh, child, # things are gonna get easier. # Oo-ooh, child, things'll get brighter. # Oo-ooh, child, # things are gonna get easier. # Oo-ooh, child, things'll get brighter. # Some day, yeah... 'The first time I walked into a gym, I fell in love with the game.' # Some day, when your head is much lighter. There it is. Mm-hm-hm! # ...we'll walk in the rays of a beautiful sun. # Some day, when the world is much brighter. # Oo-ooh, child, # things are gonna get easier. Wipe this off. Great job, y'all. High five. Wasn't hard, was it? OK, good. You're doing good, baby. That's really good. Ma,... how am I gonna manage all this on my own? Wayne isn't helping, is he? He's paying child support. What I need is his help in raising those boys. Come here. Come on. Heavenly Father, thank you for your mercy and your grace. Please give my daughter strength to continue to move forward, to trust in you. Wrap those babies in your loving arms, in Jesus' name. In Jesus' name. Amen. Amen. Oh I love you, Mama. I love you too. I'm proud of you, too. I've gotta get out of here. All right, call me if you need me. OK, but don't worry. (GENTLE MUSIC) (SIREN WAILS) (VIDEO GAME NOISES) You guys need to stop playing and get ready for dinner. Aw, do I have to stop? (TV TURNS OFF) Kevin, you heard Mom! What did you do that for?! Don't touch me! No! No, no, no, no. What have I told you about us arguing in the house? Hugs. So hug your brother. Now! Good. Look, we're a family. We work as a team and support each other, right? Good. Now come to dinner. (GENTLE MUSIC) (MUSIC BUILDS) (SIGHS) (BALL THUDS) (UPLIFTING MUSIC) (WHISTLE TRILLS) 'I had so much help. 'It motivated me every single day, to be who I am.' All right, boys. Iso 32. Iso 32. (BLOWS WHISTLE) Let's go! (GRUNTS) Nice, Kevin. So, you did you think about what we talked about? (BALL THUDS) We talk about a lot of things, Demetria. Nice shot, Tony! I am talking about going out with Reggie's new friend, Joe. (SIGHS) Girl, I cannot be dating. Ugh! Between the boys and work, I hardly got time to breathe. I'm sorry, are you too busy to meet a guy who is Morris Chestnut fine and Maxwell fly? (SNICKERS) Huh? Girl, you're too much. Stop! If he's that fine, why is interested in a single mother with two boys? Well, that's cos I told him you had a Halle Berry cut and more curves than DuPont Circle. OK? Girl, you ain't never changed. Look, I just want you to enjoy your life a little more. Besides, now that I'm married and knocked up, I need to live vicariously through you. (SIGHS) Man, we used to have so much fun. Remember how we used to tell stories to get out of the house? Do I? How do you think I got Tony? Ugh. You and Wayne. (CHUCKLES) Damn. Couldn't nobody keep y'all apart. Ooh, tell me about it. I know you think I'm crazy, but I think he and I are still gonna work out. He loves those boys. He's just overwhelmed with being a daddy. (WHISTLE TRILLS) It's a lot. No doubt. Wanda, Wayne is here. Please don't tell me he is the reason you haven't called Joe. No. I haven't seen Wayne in a while. So what is he doing here? Listen, the only reason we ever need to talk about Wayne is about the boys. All right. (BALL BOUNCES) You're doing real good Wanda. OK? Don't get sucked in again. Hey,... Wayne. Hey. I just came by to give you this. Thanks. I'll see you around. Hey, you should stay. The practice is almost over. Kevin and Tony are getting so good. You'd be so proud of them. No, I've got to get to work. I'll catch you next time. OK. (DOOR OPENS) (POIGNANT MUSIC) (SIGHS) Oh! It's all right. That's why we practise. What did he want? Oh. Mm-hm. I'm gonna have Reggie's friend call you. Demetria` His name is Joe. No. J-O-E. Pick up the phone. Wha`?! And take off that ring. No. It was crazy. Yo, we was in there. You got three threes. Hey, Wanda, how you doing? Hanging in there. I can see that. (BLOWS WHISTLE) Hey, boys, who's responsible for your gear? We are. Mm-hm. So what you waiting for? (CHUCKLES) I gotta get me one of those. It comes in handy. Baby. You know, I wanted to talk to you about something. Are you familiar with the AAU ` the Amateur Athletic Union? No. I'm the assistant coach for one of the teams there ` the PG Jaguars. I honestly think the boys should join the league. I mean, they're showing so much potential, and I think they can go real far in this game. Coach, I'm raising my kids to be college graduates. That's my goal. Which is exactly why they should join the league. That's where college scouts go to start keeping track of players, not here at the rec centres. But the programme here doesn't cost much. I'm already so stretched. I get that. I really do. But a little investment now could mean a basketball scholarship in a few years, which will pay for their entire college education. Let me think on it. All right. The Jaguars? I've heard of them. Yeah, they're one of the top teams in the AAU. That's my way to the NBA. Nobody's talking about the NBA, Kevin. That's a long shot. Mama, have you seen my long shot? He's got a point, Ma. The only shot I care about is both of you getting college scholarships. I got this, Ma. Take a seat. But Mom, you always taught us to set our goals high. Yes. So why can't we have both? As long as you promise to put as much effort into both goals, fine. I promise, Mom. You won't regret this. (SIGHS) Check it out, bro. Oh, I see you, little man. Ah! BOTH: Swish! Ooh, gimme that ball. Whew. Swish! That's your son. That's my son. (UPBEAT MUSIC) (SHOES SQUEAK ON FLOOR) (CROWD CHEERS) How's he doing? He's doing so good it's cray. (CROWD GROANS) (UPBEAT MUSIC CONTINUES) Come on. Come on. - (WHISTLE TRILLS) - (CHEERING) My baby! That's my baby! Yes! Amazing final shot, Kevin. Oh, you ain't seen nothing yet. I'm just getting started. Tony, how'd your team do? We won too. That's what I'm talking about! (HANDS CLAP) Swish! I'm so proud of you both. Now let's get you home so you can start your homework. (GROANS) Boo! Boring. (HORNS HONK) What is this light doing on in here? What are you doing? Uh, I'm researching. Researching what? High schools. Private high schools, huh? Why not? I got the grades. All these schools are out of state, Tony. I'm just looking at all my options, Ma. I cannot afford private school. I really want to go to this military school, Ma. And I know I could get a basketball scholarship. How long have you been researching this? Not that long. I just know I gotta set a future for myself. You understand? (SIREN WAILS IN DISTANCE) I do, baby. Can I take some of these brochures so I can help you research? Yeah. I love you, baby. I love you too, Ma. All right. Now go to bed before you wake your brother up. Nothing wakes up Kevin, Ma. (CHUCKLES) (SIGHS) (KNOCKS) Hey, can I talk to you for a second? Yeah, sure. Um,... there's no other way to say it. I need to ask you for a raise. My kids are at an age now where they need their mom at home at night. I've been here for a long time, I work really hard, and I think I deserve it. Unfortunately, it's not up to me. (SIGHS) Yeah, thanks. Wait, wait, wait, wait. There is a supervisor position posted. Why don't you apply for it? Really? Yes. Do it. Thank you. Hey, listen, I hear your kids were killing it at AAU. People all over town are talking about it ` NBA potential. Well, we'll see. One step at a time. I'll get you those forms. Thank you so much. You're welcome. (INSPIRATIONAL FUNK MUSIC) (BALL THUDS) (PHONE RINGS) Hello? Girl, I could kill you. Well,... what if he doesn't think I'm cute or something? (SIGHS) Yeah, I know. Yes, yes ` 2 o'clock, baby store. All right. Oh my goodness. OK, he's kinda cute. OK, good job. OK, bye. So, what kind of music do you listen to? Go-go music. No. Yes. Trouble Funk? Oh! I love Trouble` Oh, come on! Drop the Bomb? No, that's my jam. No, that's my jam. Please. That's the DC anthem. Yeah. You can't live here if you don't love those people. I'm impressed. Did you just start working at the post office? Uh, I've been there for a while. I was thinking you just started working, because Demetria told me that you've been working the midnight shift,... Yeah. ...so that can't be good for your love life. (SCOFFS) What love life? Come on ` you're a good-looking woman. Thank you. No, I work the night shift so I can be home with my boys in the afternoon. I got two boys. I gotta be there. Wow. OK. Two boys. Demetria didn't tell you? Mm. Mm-mm. No, she didn't. Hmm. Thanks so much for lunch. That was great. (CHUCKLES) Catch you later. Look at this little thing. Isn't it cute? What's wrong? You lied to that man so he'd go out on a date with me? No, I did not lie to him. I just didn't tell him, because I thought that he would meet you and then he'd be cool with the boys. Yeah, he was cool. Then, when I told him I had two kids, he was out. Are you serious? Ugh! I'm gonna kill him. (SIGHS) Look, look, I'm sorry. OK? I'm sorry. It's just, I have Reggie, right? And I just want you to have someone who loves you and supports you just as much. You don't think I want the same thing? Yeah, but` No, of course I do. I'm sorry. My bad. But I just want to do it in my own good time. (SIGHS) Look, from here on out, no more matchmaking, OK? But` OK? OK? OK, OK. (SIGHS) You're no fun. What if he's really cute, though? No. What if he's rich, like a doctor? Mm-mm, no. Wanda, my water just broke. No. My water just broke. My water just broke. Oh my God! That's it, right? That's what it look like? This is it! Oh my God. I didn't drive. Call Reggie. OK, OK, OK. Call Reggie. Ugh. Where's my phone? OK. Uh,... (PANTS) (PHONE DIALS) Really? Really? OK! Hey, Reggie, I'm here with Demetria. We're here at Army & Navy. Yeah, meet us out front. Come on, hurry up! Hurry up! OK, this is it. Oh my God. Seriously? This is it. Let's go. Hold on to me. Let me take your purse. What about my stuff? We gotta come back for that. No, no, no, you waited too long. (GROANS) I told you to do this a week ago. Here you go. Excuse me. Sorry. Oh. OK. Where is he? (HORN HONKS) Oh, here he comes. (TYRES SCREECH) Here we go! Here we go! Hold on. There's a baby coming. Just keep breathing. Just keep breathing. Babe, you OK? Hey, you need anything? No, just you, babe. I got you. OK, take it easy. (GROANS) You're gonna be fine. You're gonna be great! I'm gonna be a father. You're gonna be a daddy! (LAUGHS) Oh, hey, oh! I've gotta go get the kids. I'll call you from the hospital. Call me when you get there. You're gonna be great! Just breathe! Just breathe. (TYRES SQUEAL) (LAUGHS) (SIGHS) 3 (WHISTLE TRILLS) All right, all right, baby. (CROWD CHEERS) (UPBEAT MUSIC) (CROWD CHEERS) (CROWD CHEERS) Whoo! OK, OK, OK, here we go, here we go! You can do this, baby! Take the shot. - (CROWD CHEERS) - (BUZZER SOUNDS) Oh my God! Oh my God! Swish! Ha! (LAUGHS) Yeah, that's my boy. I'm proud of you, son. I'm proud of you too, son. Hey, Wayne. Coach. Hey, your boy done killed it. There's a lot of scouts here today ` not just college scouts but NBA as well. Get ready. Oh, I'm ready. He deserves every bit of this attention. Hey, the team's coming over to my house tonight to watch the game. You mind if Tony comes along? Yeah, yeah. Of course, baby, go ahead. Have fun. All right. Later, Dad. Are you coming, Wanda? No, no, no, I'm good. It was a good game by Kevin. Well, I'm happy you could come. You know. I wanted to see everybody. Hmm. So, how are you? Your hair looks nice. I'm hanging in there. OK. How are you getting home? I guess I am just gonna catch up with my mum. No. Come on, I can give you a ride. It's getting dark outside. OK. I really do like that hair. (BOTH LAUGH) Well, thanks for dropping me off tonight. Yeah, no problem. When I was watching the game tonight, it may be real proud of our sounds. I realised that, no matter what differences we may have, we made something beautiful together. That's true. (GENTLE MUSIC) (EXHALES) No. Wayne, what are we doing? You and I both know that we have something special together. So, are you gonna invite me in? I miss you, Wanda. (GENTLE MUSIC CONTINUES) Oh. Where are you going? I got some place to be. If you got some place to be, then why are you here? I came to see you, Wanda. If you came to see me, then why are you leaving? I'm just trying to figure all of this out, OK? What's to figure out? I'm still your wife. Let's not do this right now. You know what? Don't let's ever do this. Leave! (SIGHS) OK. (DOOR OPENS) Ma, you check the mail today? Yes, baby. There's nothing in there from any of the schools. So, which school is your first pick? I really wanna go to St John's Military School ` great school, great team. Please take your stinky feet to Kansas. Don't act like you ain't gonna miss me. Hey, hey, hey. Don't break my stereo. Oh, I'm not. You sure? Uh, yeah. I'm sure! Oh, you sure? Hey, what'd I just say? Are you sure? All right, all right. I guess I'm gonna miss you. Thought so. You know, sometimes I wish Dad was here to just be with us. Well, I saw him in the street the other day. He said he's really proud of how we're doing. And that's all thanks to Mom. Yeah, Mom. Thank, baby. You wanna do this? Mm-hm. (CELL PHONE RINGS) Oh` (RINGING STOPS) (CLEARS THROAT) Uh, what was that talk? Me winning ` that's what that was. No, you cheating. Hey, what's going on with Tony's schools? Any day now we should hear an acceptance letter or something. Oh! So exciting. I guess it is. Wanda. No, it's good, it's good. I just... It's so hard. Tony's my rock. It's gonna be hard to be without him. I never thought he was gonna leave the nest before college. Shoot. At my kid's age, I wish somebody would take her. Like, please, right now. Girl, I've been there. Don't worry. It gets better. I don't know how you do it. I'm barely holding together, and you did it with two kids, by yourself. You are better than me. Hmm. Doesn't feel like it. You talk to Wayne lately? No. Wanda. I gotta tell you something. What? Look, I know you love Wayne, and I know how important it is for him to be in your boys' lives. Demetria, just spit it out. What is it? OK. He just had another baby. What? Yeah. Uh... Are you sure? Yeah, I'm sure. (SIGHS) Oh, I think I'm gonna be sick. You know he just... came back with me just... after Kevin's game just a month ago? A month ago? Wow. Oh. Oh, I'm such an idiot. No, no, no. Do not do that. Do not beat yourself up. It is not your fault. We've all done things we regretted. Maybe this is a blessing. Maybe this is just what you need ` to be able to let him go, finally, and move on. Right? I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. I'm sorry. It's OK. No, it's OK. It's all right. Just do what you always do, and take care of those boys. (POIGNANT MUSIC) OK, now, let's get this over with before it gets cold. Lets do this. Come on, give me your coats. Think you can beat me this time, youngster? OK, big brother. I always beat you. Stop playing. You need to beat 15 seconds if you want to show me how much faster you've gotten. OK. One,... two,... (BLOWS WHISTLE) Come on, man. Let's go! 'I guess tonight didn't mean anything to you. I'm so stupid to think it did.' WAYNE: 'I got some place to be.' (GROANS) I'm tired. Come on, man. Come on, man! (PANTS) What was the time? Two seconds faster than yesterday. Yes! Good job. Now come on, let's go. Go, boy! All right, let's get out of her, brother. Mmm. I smell some apple cider. I thought you might want some. Yeah, definitely, after them runs. Tony, there's a letter here for you. Really? It's thick. Thick is good, right? Thin is bad? I don't remember. Just open it. All right. READS: Dear Anthony, I'm pleased to inform you that your application for admission to our school has been accepted and granted a basketball scholarship! Oh my God, bro! That's what I'm talking about, man! Proud of you, baby. Congratulations! So proud of you. Congrats, bro. You're the man of the house now, all right? I got it. I'm gonna take care of us, just like you did us. OK. Goodnight, boys. What's wrong with you? You've been quiet all night. I'm just tired, Mama. Mm-mm. I know tired, and this is not tired. Well, Tony is leaving, Mama. That's a lot. Now, I know Tony is your rock. But this is a great opportunity for him. I know, Mama. That does not make it any easier. You tell Wayne about the news? Uh, Tony can if he wants to. Well,... what happened? Nothing. Did something happen you're not telling me about? No, Ma. Are you sure? Yeah. OK. I-I gotta go. You sure you don't wanna stay? No, I got this thing at the church in the morning, so I gotta go and get ready. But I'll come back in the morning right after. See you. Goodnight, baby. (DOOR OPENS) (DOOR CLOSES) (UNSETTLING MUSIC) (SIREN WAILS IN DISTANCE) (SOBS) (SOBS) (CROCKERY SMASHES) (EXCLAIMS) (UNSETTLING MUSIC) Mom, I think I forgot to... Mom! (SNIFFLES) Kevin and I still need you, Mom. You're too strong. You're so strong, Mama. You're the strongest woman I know. (SOBS) But if you need me, I'm here for you. You're like Super Woman to me, Mom. You're stronger than this. You are. OK? (DRAMATIC MUSIC) I love you. I love you so much. # I can see it in your eyes. # I sometimes see you pass outside my door. (CELL PHONE CHIMES) # Hello. (CELL PHONE CHIMES) # Is it me you're looking for? # I can see it in your eyes. (CELL PHONE CHIMES) # I can see it in your smile, # and I want to tell you so much ` # I love you. # 4 (POIGNANT MUSIC) I'm OK, baby. You can go to bed. I can't leave you, Mom. No, baby. No, no, no. Shh! I'm gonna be OK. I promise. I have to make sure you're OK. Grandmama's here. Tony, yes, I'm here and she's gonna be fine. And I'm not going anywhere. Baby. Baby? (SIGHS) What's wrong? What's going on in your head? I don't know. (EXHALES) Last few months have been so hard. Tony... getting accepted into school is so great, but it just left me feeling so empty. And Wayne... having a baby by another woman? As much as I wanted to brush it off and move on, it's just not that easy to do. (SIGHS) I just... I just found myself in a weak moment, and... more than anything, I just feel so sorry that I... I scared my baby. I just feel so guilty. I feel guilty. I mean, I was trying to respect your wishes and not talk about Wayne, but I should've known how you would feel about that. Maybe I should have told you sooner. It's not about you, it's about me finally seeing everything... especially seeing Wayne for who he is... and deal with that. (SIGHS) And I know, Ma, you told me so many times` Oh, listen, baby, it's not about me being right or you being wrong. I-I had issues with your father, and... I put them on you, and for that... I'm sorry. But now... it's about you, and about what you need and about what you want. That's right. We gotta re-focus on what you want. Look, you just lost your way. That's all. We all lose our way. It's normal. And do not beat yourself up about that. But now we gotta focus back on you. What does Wanda want? Ooh, you know what? You're lucky, cos you've got a road map. What does it say here? Let's see. Look at that. I did want to go to college. You can still go to college. Well, sure you can. You don't even have to go full-time. Go part-time and find out what you like. Yeah, I can even go with you. (SCOFFS) It'll be like old times ` me and you sitting up in class. You ain't going back to school! I... I am appalled! OK, OK. I could go back to school! Go back to school. I can learn good. Yeah, and the good thing is... you got me, you got Demetria, Yep. ...you got all my prayer group praying for you. So we're gonna turn these things around, and everything's gonna be fine. Right, Demetria? Yup! You know I ain't going nowhere. Since sixth grade. (LAUGHS) OK. We got you. (KNOCK AT DOOR) Hey. Look, I just came by to say goodbye to Tony. Look,... I'm glad you came today, but from here on out, our relationship is going to be only about our sons. Come on, Wanda. Why you gotta be like that? Don't make this about us. We're done. Glad you could find some time for your sons, though. Tony, your daddy's here. (SIGHS) Is that a fact? Thank you. Uh-oh, young soldier. (CHUCKLES) Hey. What's up, Dad? (POIGNANT MUSIC) Proud of you, son. Thanks, Pops. I'm gonna get the car. All right. Are you gonna be OK? I can handle it, Ma. You taught me how. Gonna miss you. Mm! You better. Don't make me laugh. We better go. Tony, aren't you hungry? I'm stuffed. Stuffed. Later, bro. I mean, I could eat some more, Mama. (DOOR CLOSES) Look, Mom, I know it's just us now, but I promise I'm gonna take care of us. OK? I promise. (POIGNANT MUSIC CONTINUES) (SIGHS) (INSPIRING FUNK MUSIC) (KEYS TAP) Are you finished? Bam! Oh! No, you didn't! I ain't gonna cry about this. Mm-mm. I ain't gonna cry. I ain't gonna shed not one tear over this hot tea! Oh my goodness! You can do it 50 times. What? Coach said 25. You wanna be good, or you wanna be great? (PHONE RINGS) You OK, Wanda? You look stressed out. Yeah, I'm really stressed. What's going on? You won't believe it, but Tony at military school is draining me dry. Promotion wasn't enough? Oh, no, it was good, but it wasn't enough. I asked Wayne for help, but he wouldn't help or he couldn't help ` whatever it is, it's the same thing. What are you gonna do? I'm gonna have to tap into my retirement fund. Oh, no, you don't wanna do that. What's this money for, anyway? I thought he was on scholarship. Every time Tony does something good, it costs me money. And military school ` you gotta buy 'em a new uniform every semester. Every time he wins a medal, it costs me money. The funny thing is, every time this boy does something good, it costs me money. Are you paying for his medals is worth your retirement fund? If it supports him to be a better man, then yeah. I heard that. (SIGHS) OK, knees! Ankles! (INSPIRING FUNK MUSIC) One more time ` knees! Ankles! All right. (BLOWS WHISTLE) (CHEERING, APPLAUSE) (CROWD CHEERS) Whoa! That's right! (BALL THUDS) (CROWD CHEERS) Oh! Oh my God, Ma! (CROWD CHEERS) (CROWD CHEERS) Yes! (HOOTER SOUNDS) I can't believe it! I can't! CROWD CHANTS: Durant! Durant! Durant! Kev, everything you wanted is finally happening. I know you think you're ready for it, but when this thing hits, you'll never be the same. Nah, Coach, I ain't gonna change. I got my faith, I got Ma, I got Tony, Grandma. I got you. I love the fact that you're saying that, but we ain't gonna be on the road with you when the temptations start coming in fast and furious. Always be thinking before you make a move, all right? Always. You feel me? I got you. All right. I got you, Coach. You're still coming over to open all my admissions letters, right? I know my dad's gonna be there, but I still need you in the mix. Yeah, I'll be over in a bit. Thanks, Coach. All right. I'll see you. Good work today. Thanks. (ENGINE STARTS) Hey. Hey! Back off! Who you touchin', man? You all right? You sure? You don't mean nothing to me, Coach. Go on, get the hell out of here. These options. Oh, there's my baby! He's the one! Mwah! Hello, baby. Hey, baby. Where's Coach? I thought he was coming with you. He's on his way. Look, now you're gonna have a lot of decisions to make, with all these options, Kevin. And options is something you really know about, huh? Come on, Grandma, give him a break. Oh, look ` University of Texas. Isn't this one on your list? Tony? Yes, Coach said that should go in the top-10 pile. That's a really good school. I gotta get to work, but I'll check in with you guys tomorrow, OK? What? Bye, Dad. Kevin, narrow it down to the top three schools. I love you. Love you. Well, anything in this top 10 is a good thing ` remember that. (PHONE RINGS) I've been holding this for a long time. What you think? Oh. That's Ivy League. Hello? What? Oh my God. What's going on, Ma? Thank you so much for calling. What is it, Ma? Uh, Coach was shot. What?! Is he OK? I was just with him. Ma? Ma, is he OK? Mama. No, baby. (SOBS) He's dead. Come here. He's dead. Oh my God. (SOBS) (SOLEMN MUSIC) Coach saw potential in Tony and me, as players, before anyone else. More importantly, he helped us become better men. He died at 35 ` much too young ` but in his short life, he gave Tony, me and everybody he came in contact with lessons that'll... (EXHALES) ...that'll stay with us for the rest of our lives. He may not be here any more, but... he'll be in our hearts forever. (BOTH SOB) This is Austin Sport Radio. In 2007, Kevin Durant was the Big 12 Player of the Year. Kevin Durant was the national College Player of the Year. He's the greatest player in the history of University of Texas basketball, and now the whole state is asking the same question ` will he stay in school, or will he go to the NBA? (MEN PLAY BASKETBALL IN BACKGROUND) I've been thinking about this non-stop, and I've decided ` it's what I want to do. The NBA. The NBA? Kevin, you are 19. You've been in school for one year. What if it doesn't work out? Ma, I'm ready. Are you not enjoying college? Nah, that's not what it is. This year in college has been great, and I'm glad I had it, because it helped me solidify my decision. It's just not going to help me achieve my long-term goal any more. Well, you're 19. You certainly don't have to have my permission. I'm always going to need your approval. Are we doing this? Are you sure this is what you wanna do? Hey, could you get the ball for us? Watch this. (BALL THUDS) 'Second pick in the 2007 NBA draft ` Oh! '...the Seattle SuperSonics select Kevin Durant from the University of Texas.' (CHEERING, APPLAUSE) I can't believe you got a year off work to travel with Kevin. Mm-hm. My boss is more excited than I am. He's been following y'all since the AAU. I still don't know why you're doing this. Kevin can take care of himself. Neither of you have any idea how much pressure he's gonna be under. He's gonna need our support. Maybe I should go instead. Won't cramp his style as much when he's trying to` Trying to what? Talk to women? Mm-mm. Your only job right now is to finish school. You hear me? That's your job. College ain't going nowhere. Mm-mm. I can always go back. Tony, no! Promise me right now you're gonna finish college. You're almost done. I'll finish when you finish. Boy,... I am your mother. I tell you what to do. I'm sorry. I promise. (ZIPS BAG) Thank you. (SCOFFS) Come on, Mama. Between you and your brother, you're gonna give me a heart attack. (LAUGHS) Mm! Let me tell you about Kevin Durant. As an 18-year-old freshman, he averaged 25.8 points per game, and this kid's a team leader. He wears the number-35 jersey in memory of his youth-league basketball coach, Charles 'Big Chuckie' Craig, who died a few years ago. In an era of show-offs, Kevin Durant seems to be a kid with class. (CELL PHONE RINGS) Hey, girl. Did I wake you? Please. No. Hey. How you doing? I'm great. You are the worst liar. Well, I don't love Seattle. Hon, there are hardly any black people here. It rains all the time. I live out of my suitcase half the time. Player's girlfriends and wives ` they don't want to have anything to do with me. So come back home. Please! This is my baby's first year in the NBA. I am not leaving him here alone. Wanda, he is grown. At some point, you are gonna have to stop thinking of him as your baby. Mm-hm, you're right ` next year. (CHUCKLES) How's Tony? Oh, he's doing good. He graduates soon. Wow. A college graduate and an NBA player. That's pretty amazing, my friend. Are you still coming next month to visit? I miss you. Absolutely. Please. I'm counting down the days. I can't wait. I'll see you in a few weeks. (CHUCKLES) OK. Bye. (CELL PHONE BEEPS) (SIGHS) Here at Every Month Sports, we believe that Hip-Hop Kevin will be the next big star. So that's what we're thinking. We feel it's a strong approach. Any thoughts, Kevin? It's all right. No, it doesn't reflect his background. It doesn't even show what makes him unique. Well, what we were trying to do is capitalise on Kevin's swagger ` his hip-hop aesthetic. Why? What does that have to do with basketball, or where we came from? His swagger? And his hip-hop aesthetic ` whatever that means ` is not what makes Kevin special. Do you know what makes him special? Of course ` his... talent` Yes, his talent. But also his character. You know what makes me the most proud? It's that he has never been in trouble. If I were doing this ad, I would shoot this where it all started ` at the Seat Pleasant Activity Center ` and try to inspire the next generation of kids, so maybe they'll try to be as great as he is, instead of this hip-hop crap. We need to go. Thank you. Let's get out of here. Wait. Kevin` Thank you. Ms Pratt` Thank you. That presentation was terrible. Those people are not right for you, Kevin. Absolutely. Ma, you sure didn't hold back. You were really great, Mrs Pratt. I did what any mother would have done. I better watch out ` you're gonna take my job. Kevin, I'll follow up with other companies. Appreciate it. Thank you. Thank you. Take care. I guess it's back to the plane for us. You missing DC, Ma? Hmm, a little bit. Ma? Are you happy? What are you talking about? Working for my boys is what I live for. Hm? We'll tell her later. 6 (CRICKETS CHIRP) Hey, Ma. Hey, baby. What you doin'? Just going through the book of memories. Oh, Lord. I thought you two were going out after the game. We wanted to talk to you about something first. Oh, OK. Ma,... I want to buy you a house back home, and I want it to be whatever you want ` my gift. You make yourself happy. You sacrificed so we can have all this. We owe you this. I owe you this. No, baby. No. I'm enjoying spending time right here. Plus, I do not want you spending your money on me like that. We want you to start focusing on your goals. Kevin and I, we got this. What do you mean? You don't want me working with you any more? W-What did I do wrong? No, that's... that's not what we're saying. I'm saying that you raised us to take care of ourselves, a-and we're real thankful, but... We want you to put that energy into yourself. That's our gift to you. Mm. (POIGNANT PIANO MUSIC) I don't know a better way to say it, Ma. Well, OK. OK? (POIGNANT MUSIC CONTINUES) (GATES CREAK) Ma, this is great. Here we are. I hope you're happy. I mean,... what's not to like? It's just that, what am I gonna do in this big old house all by myself? Anything you want. Have some parties. Get you a little roommate. Move Grandma in. This is... just a lot for me. It's a lot of change. You deserve to enjoy your own life for once. What about if you grab this box, baby, and take it to my bedroom? We just want you to be happy, Ma. I know, baby. I'm so grateful that you bought me this house. It's nothing, Ma, compared to what you've done for both of us. We gotta start heading back, Kev. What? Y'all leaving? I got a game tonight. And a business meeting before. Ma, don't worry ` we'll call you after the game, check in on you. Hey, call Demetria and Grandma. I'm sure they'd love to help you decorate your new place. You'll fill this place up, Ma ` don't worry. We love you, Ma. We love you. I love you too, baby. Love you. (DOOR OPENS) Hey` (DOOR CLOSES) (MARY J BLIGE'S 'NOT GON' CRY') # Mm-mm-mm. # Hey-ey-ey, oh. # Oh-oh-oh. (SULTRY R AND B MUSIC CONTINUES) # Mm-mm-mm. # Hey-ey-ey, oh. # Oh-oh-oh. # While all the time that I was loving you, # you were busy loving yourself. # I would stop breathing if you told me to. # Now you're busy loving someone else. # 11 years # out of my life. # Besides the kids, I have nothing to show. # Wasted my years, # a fool of a wife. # I should have left your ass long time ago. # Well, I'm not gon' cry. # I'm not gon' cry. # I'm not gon' shed no tears. # No, I'm not gon' cry. # It's not the time. # Cos you're not worth my tears. # Can't do it. # Well, I'm not gon' cry. # I'm not gon' cry. # I said I can't do it. # I'm not gon' shed no tears. # You were never worth my tears. # No, I'm not gon' cry. # It's not the time. # Cos you're not worth my tears. # Mm-mm-mm. # # I was your lover and your secretary... # (MUSIC FADES) (FOOTSTEPS APPROACH) DEMETRIA: Wanda! Wanda? Oh my God. Are you serious right now? You can't return a phone call? If I wanted to call you back, I would have. What's wrong with you? I get it. I get it. You're laying up here in this big, beautiful house feeling sorry for yourself, huh? Really, Wanda? This is... This is what you wanted. This is... This is what you worked for. Leave me alone! Sacrificed for it! Now, I remember many nights that you fed those boys instead of yourself, going to bed hungry! Now, you've come too far to fall down now, so get up! Right now! Come on! Let's go! Get up, Wanda. Oh my God, you stink, Wanda. Get in the shower. Right now! Now, I'm gonna run this water... Please, no, I can wash myself. Are you sure? OK. I don't hear no water running. (WATER RUNS) (GENTLE PIANO MUSIC) (CRICKETS CHIRP) Oh, wait. (CHUCKLES) Thank you. I really missed you. Now, you're gonna call and register back in school tomorrow, right? Yes. Right. (CLICKS TONGUE) Call me tomorrow. Tomorrow. I love you. Love you too. Love you, baby. (UPLIFTING MUSIC) 7 (PEOPLE CHATTER) Hey! With a degree in Information Systems... Give it up for the Queen of Capitol Heights, my mama ` Wanda Pratt! (CHEERING, APPLAUSE) Speech! ALL CHANT: Speech! Speech! All right, all right. (SIGHS) Thank you all so much for coming out here to support me. It means so much to me, and I would not have been able to do this without each and every one of you in this room. Thank you. (CHEERING, APPLAUSE) Proud of you, Ma. (SQUEALS) Come here. Let me see, let me see, let me see. I like that. Yes. Congratulations. Oh, David, thanks. Well done. Well done. (SIGHS) You think they're enjoying the party? Yeah, look. Uh, Mom, come over here. I just noticed you forgot to cross something off. You know, Kevin and I have always known how you felt about us. You never skimped on the 'I love you's or the 'I'm proud of you's. But today that tables deserve to be turned. I hope you know how proud we are of you. (PARTY CHATTER CONTINUES) I love you, baby. Love you too. Oh! No more work. Yes, sir. I got you. (SIGHS, CHUCKLES) It's time for me to make a new list. (WIND WHISTLES) There's a huge storm here in New York, and they've cancelled all the flights out. Hey, Ma. Hey, Tony. Why did your Grandmother and I come all the way to Oklahoma, for you two not to even come home? We should be out first thing in the morning. But listen ` I need you to do me a favour. Mm-hm. What is it, baby? You know how the team supports local charities? There's a speech I was supposed to give for the Single Parent Support Network in Oklahoma. And I need you to fill in for me. You want me to go to an event? Yes, and give a speech. You want me to give a speech? Ma, it's an event for single mothers. I don't even know why they asked me instead of you. Um, because you're famous! They should be hearing your story, not mine. (SIGHS) Mm-mm. I don't know, Kevin. Ma, it's their holiday event. If you let them down, I'll be letting them down. It doesn't have to be a long speech. I was gonna talk about you anyway. What'd she say? Ugh. I'm gonna kill you, Kevin. What's the information for the event? All the information is in the in-box in my office. OK. Well, I better get going, because I have a speech to give. Thanks, Ma. You'll do great. Mm-hm. OK, baby. Love you, Ma. I love you too. Bye. (CELL PHONE BEEPS) (GROANS) Mama? Huh? We need to go shopping. I need an outfit. You know I've never done public speaking. I'm so nervous. Kevin's speech has just changed my life. I know. It's changed all our lives, but` May I help you find something? Yes, I'm looking for something... nice ` nothing formal, just nice. OK, let me pull a few things for you. Why don't you follow me? Oh, OK, thanks. She didn't even ask you what size you were. Mama, OK. How does she know? Mama, it's what they're trained to know. Oh, cos she's in a fancy store? Yes, Mama, OK, she` Thank you. Look at you. Mama, please. Oh, look at this right here. Um, you're Kevin Durant's mother, right? Yeah, my son is Kevin. Have we met before? No, but I saw the MVP speech, and it was so inspiring. Oh, well, thank you. What's your name? Tamara. It's nice to meet you. I... I quit school when I got pregnant, but after hearing what Kevin said about you, it inspired me to get my GED. (POIGNANT MUSIC) Oh, good for you, baby. Thank you. You know, you should really tell your story to more people. It's so funny that you say that. I'm here picking out an outfit because tomorrow I'm doing my first speaking event... ever. In that case,... try this one on. You want to look great for the start of your new career. Thank you. God is good. (APPLAUSE) (UPLIFTING MUSIC) When my son Kevin... asked me to come speak to you tonight,... I said yes,... but I really wanted to say no. I'm not gonna lie; it's because I was scared. I'm not a public speaker. And, unlike my son, I'm not used to big crowds. I also wasn't sure... if talking about myself ` my life ` was something that I was even willing to do publicly. And so, thinking I had to come here tonight and share my story, that's what I thought about. And it also just didn't feel right to come here tonight and give you advice, when I didn't take this advice when I was your age. But then, I decided it's got to be time for me to stop living in fear. and time for me to own my story ` the good, the bad, the ugly. Because everything that I've got through how now led me to this very podium here tonight Come on ` see it. 'He's the first player ever from a franchise to win this prestigious accolade. 'He is now in the company of all-time greats we simply call Russell, Wilt, 'the Big O, Larry, 'Magic and Michael ` just to name a few. And now we add KD. (APPLAUSE) A-And last, my mom. I don't think you know what you did, making me run up the hill, making me do push-ups, screaming at me from the side-line of my games at 8 or 9 years old. We weren't supposed to be here. EMOTIONALLY: You made us believe, you kept us off the street, put clothes on our backs, food on the table. You sacrificed for us. (SNIFFLES) You're the real MVP. (CHEERING, APPLAUSE) (GENTLE MUSIC) Captions by James Brown. www.able.co.nz Captions were made with the support of NZ On Air. Copyright Able 2017