Big Time chronicles the life of legendary Memphis basketball coach, Sylvester Ford Sr., while inspiring us all to live “big time” lives. The film premiered in November 2024 at the Indie Memphis Film Festival, where it won the audience award in the Hometown (i.e. Hometowner) Feature category.

About the Film: Civil Rights Movement activist, TSSAA Hall of Fame Basketball Coach, swim teacher, educator, musical director, father, grandfather, and friend to many, Coach Sylvester Ford Sr. was known by many as “Big Time.” The nickname was given to him as a kid for his height, but “Big Time” showed time and time again why his nickname was about way more than his looks– it’s also because of how he showed up big for his community.

My journey was a good journey, and I thank the Lord for my journey, and I thank my wife for not letting me give up.” — Coach Sylvester Ford, Sr.

Cast + Crew

Director, Producer, Director of Photography & Writer

Jasmine Blue

Starring

Sylvester Ford Sr.

Clara Ford

Editor

John Thomas Dickson

Composer

Danahyah Evans

Animator

Cora Stammen

Production Assistant

Sylver Brianna Ford

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Press + Features