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Jalen Rose is officially stepping into the world of television production with his new drama series South West High, which is set to premiere February 23 on Tubi. The longtime NBA veteran turned sports analyst serves as co-creator, executive producer, and star of the series, marking the first release from his newly launched production company, Same Page Entertainment.
Rose partnered with Tom Gores, Chairman and Founder of Platinum Equity and owner of the Detroit Pistons, to launch Same Page Entertainment. The company is focused on telling authentic stories rooted in Detroit and Michigan, with South West High leading its debut slate.
The series centers around Nolan Thomas, played by Rose, a former professional basketball player who returns to his alma mater as principal of a struggling inner-city high school. As he works to reform the school, Nolan is forced to confront difficult realities surrounding power, accountability, and sacrifice—ultimately realizing that saving the institution could come at a personal cost. Rose said the inspiration for the show came from founding the Jalen Rose Leadership Academy, reflecting his real-life commitment to education and community uplift.
“This series is fiction, but the spirit behind it is very real,” Rose explained. “I wanted to share stories that reflect what I’ve witnessed for years – young people lifting each other up and believing in a future full of possibility.”
Adding strong Hip-Hop roots to the production, Grammy-nominated lyricist Royce da 5’9” served as music supervisor and composed the score alongside Denaun Porter. The Detroit connection runs deep throughout the project, reinforcing its cultural authenticity.
The cast includes Dawn Halfkenny, Towanda Braxton, Christina Cooper, former NFL linebacker Stevie Baggs Jr., Brooklyn “Queen” Oates, and Don Brumfield Jr. Guest appearances will feature actress Anna Maria Horsford, Detroit rapper Sada Baby, and FOX 2 Detroit news anchor Maurielle Lue.
Created by Rose alongside longtime friend Ty Mopkins and Dennis Reed II—who also wrote and directed the series—South West High represents a major milestone for Rose as he expands his influence beyond sports and into storytelling rooted in his community.
