Teaser
This teaser video is protected by copyright to preserve the authenticity and creative vision of Beyond Banners. Copyright protection helps us ensure the story reaches audiences as intended while safeguarding the work of everyone involved in bringing this vision to life
About the Documentary
Before Kevin Durant and Len Bias put Prince George’s County on the basketball map, there was Gwynn Park—a local powerhouse that dominated Maryland high school basketball for nearly four decades, winning more state titles than any other public school until 2005. But behind the banners was more than just a dynasty—it was a battle for opportunity, equality, and a lasting legacy.
Beyond Banners unveils the untold story of a visionary Black mentor, a coach who defied racial barriers, and a determined son who revived a fading program—shaping not just champions, but generations.
Help Bring This Story to Life
We need your support! Every contribution—$75 to $500—brings us closer to our goal. Donate today and spread the word on social media!
Your donation directly helps us:
- Conduct on-site interviews with alumni, coaches, experts and community leaders
- Capture and edit visuals, including animations.
- License stock footage, music, and archival materials.
2025 Key Milestones:
- Feb-Apr: Research, planning, and interviews.
- May-Jun: Filming and capturing visuals.
- July-Aug: Editing and incorporating animations.
- Sept-Nov: Final edits, licensing, and Official Trailer Release.
- Black and Gold Carpet Premiere Event at Xscape Theaters in Brandywine, Maryland
Shout-outs
Special thanks to Kenya, Pat, Randolph, Rodney, Mike, Dwaine, James, Dion, Micky, Chicken, Durand, Nate, and the Gwynn Park Administration for their unwavering support as we embark on this journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Honor the Life and Legacy: Celebrate Shirley and Howard Matthews Sr's impact on Gwynn Park's basketball legacy and the Brandywine community.
Unify Alumni: Bring past GPHS players and students together to celebrate our rich history.
Inspire the Future: Motivate current and future GPHS students to achieve greatness.
Out of 250-plus Maryland public high schools, Gwynn Park stands alone with:
22 state title appearances; 10 state championships.
Three GPHS players set and still hold state tournament individual records:
- Earl Hawkins: 31 rebounds (1970)
- Shorty Simmons: 34 points (1968)
- Mark Clark: 36 points (1976)
Tubby Smith: Over 640 career wins, led Kentucky to the 1998 NCAA Championship, and made 18 NCAA Tournament appearances with five programs. Multiple-time National Coach of the Year.
Lou Wilson: 750+ high school wins, state titles at Douglass and Largo High School, and two national titles at Riverdale Baptist. Coached the 2014 McDonald’s All-American Game and earned NACA Coach of the Year honors.
Van Johnson, Jr.: Co-created Nike EYBL Peach Jam and served on McDonald’s All-American and NBA Top 100 Camp selection committees.
Julian Peterson: Former NFL linebacker. Five-time Pro Bowl selection and two-time All-Pro. Drafted 16th overall in 2000, Peterson played 11 seasons with the San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, and Detroit Lions.
Neil Greenberger: Award-winning journalist who spent over 20 years at The Washington Post as a reporter and editor, specializing in sports coverage.
The core team includes highly experienced content creators: Andre Jackson (Director), Evan Sevilla (Producer), Dion Dove (Producer), Everett Ray (Cinematographer), Sue O'Hora (Consultant), Kenya Brittain (Consultant), James Hawkins (Advisor). Dwaine Matthews (Advisor) and Justin Luther (Narrator).
We suggest a minimum donation of $100, however regardless of the amount, all donations are greatly appreciated.
You can share the fundraising campaign on social media, email it to friends and family, or reach out to other Gwynn Park alumni who might want to contribute.
Tickets for the Black and Gold Carpet Event will be available for preorder during the trailer release.
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