Too Short Too Slow: America’s Most Unlikely Basketball Dynasty

This heartwarming documentary from filmmaker John Roach reunites teammates who came to rural University of Wisconsin-Platteville to play college basketball without scholarships. In just a decade, the Pioneers became a dominating force, winning four Division III national championships under Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Coach Bo Ryan. This is the story about the young men whose dedication led them to success and the community who supported them along the way.

The screening is the opening feature of the 17th Annual Driftless Film Festival, to be held Nov 4-8, 2026, at the Mineral Point Opera House. Roach will introduce the film and share the story behind its making. Following the screening, we’ll be joined by Coach Bo, along with players from his historic teams, for a special post-film conversation.

It’s a chance to hear firsthand stories from an extraordinary era of UW–Platteville basketball and to celebrate the people and stories that make the Driftless Area so special.

Filmmaker Q&A