Detroit’s cultural heartbeat is finding new life on screen with South West High, a powerful new series created by Jalen Rose and Ty Mopkins, both proud alumni of Detroit Southwestern High School. The project is more than entertainment—it’s a love letter to their alma mater and a bold statement about community, mentorship, and second chances.
Produced in collaboration with filmmaker Dennis Reed II, who serves as both writer and executive producer through his 1919 Productions, South West High blends authentic Detroit storytelling with high-level production and national distribution. And with the phenomenal writing and producing skills of Reed II, they not only pushed the envelope—they opened it to showcase Detroit to the world.
The series stars Jalen Rose as Nolan Thomas, a newly retired NBA player who returns home with one mission: save his troubled high school by stepping into the role of principal.
The story mirrors real-life passion. Rose and Mopkins wanted to spotlight the challenges facing urban education while also highlighting the power of leadership, culture, and connection. “This is about coming back and giving students something to believe in,” said Mopkins. “We wanted it to feel real, emotional, and Detroit to the core.”
Music plays a major role in shaping that identity. South West High tapped Grammy-nominated Detroit legend Royce da 5’9 to curate and score the soundtrack, with original contributions from King Bethal and Black Lion Society featuring Sada Baby. The creators intentionally leaned into the tradition of iconic film and TV soundtracks—using music to elevate the storytelling and deepen emotional impact.
“Soundtracks used to be part of the experience,” Rose explained. “We wanted to bring that back—music that stands on its own while supporting the story.”
The series also marks the first major project under Jalen Rose’s newly formed Same Page Entertainment company, launched in partnership with Detroit Pistons owner Tom Gores, who also executive produces South West High. As a New York Times bestselling author and media visionary, Rose is expanding his creative reach beyond sports into scripted storytelling with purpose and cultural relevance. This collaboration signals a long-term vision: creating meaningful, culturally rich content rooted in Detroit while reaching a national audience.
But the rollout of South West High is just as innovative as the show itself. According to Mopkins—an Emmy Award-winning marketer and creative strategist—the promotional campaign will be unlike anything viewers have seen. From official South West High merchandise to custom school IDs for cast and characters, the production is fully immersing fans in the world of the show. A behind-the-scenes “roll call” segment will allow the cast to break down each episode and connect directly with viewers, giving audiences a deeper look into the storylines and characters.
South West High premieres Monday, February 23, exclusively on Tubi, with new episodes dropping every Monday thereafter.
With hometown pride, cinematic ambition, and a soundtrack rooted in Detroit’s musical legacy, South West High is more than a series—it’s a movement. And for Jalen Rose, Ty Mopkins, and Dennis Reed II, it proves that sometimes the most powerful stories begin by going back where it all started.
