Glory Road Ben Affleck was originally going to play basketball coach Don Haskins, but he dropped out due to scheduling conflicts before production started. Actor Josh Lucas took on the role, gaining 43 pounds for the film.
Inspired by a true story, the film takes place at Texas Western College during the 1965-1966 season. In 1967 the college was renamed the University of Texas at El Paso.
Eagle-eyed viewers can spot the real-life Don Haskins in a cameo as a gas station attendant during the recruiting trip scene.