Peyton Manning was renowned for his thorough and meticulous approach as a player. He devoted numerous additional hours at the training facility, engaging in workouts and thoroughly reviewing game plans and scouting reports with the coaching staff. Even after leaving the facility, his dedication continued. “All the extra film study and preparation – I think people are aware that I was wired that way,” Manning shared with USA TODAY Sports. “I had a fantastic film room at my home in Indianapolis. I would go there and watch film from midnight until 2 a.m.” Manning expressed that having this process documented would have been fascinating.
This sentiment serves as the inspiration for the second season of “Full Court Press,” a four-part docuseries produced by Manning’s Omaha Productions. This season follows USC’s Kiki Iriafen, LSU’s Flau’jae Johnson, and Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo throughout the most recent college basketball season. The final two episodes of “Full Court Press” will be broadcast on ESPN2 on Sunday night.
Though Manning and ESPN are taking advantage of the increased interest in women’s basketball, Manning is primarily intrigued by how top athletes approach their craft, believing others will share this curiosity. “We just want to observe quietly,” Manning remarked. “Enter behind the scenes, showcase their work ethic, and not be a distraction.”
Similar to the first season of “Full Court Press,” which featured Caitlin Clark, Kamilla Cardoso, and Kiki Rice, the Omaha Productions team was granted exceptional access. They were allowed to film practices and be present in the locker room before, during, and after games, regardless of the outcome. Extensive interviews with Iriafen, Johnson, and Hidalgo, along with their coaches and families, were conducted. Additionally, the players allowed the crew to shadow their off-court activities.
Manning explained that they were deliberate in selecting athletes from diverse regions, conferences, and stages in their careers (Iriafen is a graduate student, Johnson a junior, and Hidalgo a sophomore). Manning emphasized the importance of featuring three individuals to showcase distinct approaches.
“Full Court Press” stands out by placing these women at the forefront as athletes. Often, coverage of female athletes has focused on aspiration, neglecting the compelling aspects of sports: the determination, hard work, sacrifice, and resilience. However, “Full Court Press” embraces and celebrates these elements.
Throughout the episodes, the focus is on the athletes’ competitive nature, their dedication to defense, and their unyielding drive to succeed. The season covers pivotal moments, including USC’s intense rivalry with UCLA, Notre Dame’s challenges, and Johnson’s injury sidelining her from the SEC tournament. The series offers an in-depth look at the athletes’ journey, highlighting their unwavering passion for the game.
In moments of doubt, “Full Court Press” does not shy away from the challenges. LSU coach Kim Mulkey praises Flau’jae’s strong work ethic in episode three, though she also expresses concern about overworking. The series also features light-hearted moments, such as Johnson exploring Mulkey’s colorful game-day outfits and Iriafen and her grad school classmates attempting to flip quarters off their elbows. The show aims to shed light on what it takes to succeed in the game, with Manning emphasizing the importance of dedication and hard work. Manning’s own experience with NFL star Patrick Mahomes highlights the hesitation some athletes may feel in opening up about their journey. Nevertheless, Manning believes in showcasing the dedication and passion that drive athletes like Flau’jae to greatness. The goal is to inspire others and leave a legacy for future generations.
