Film’s Premiere is Sept. 13 in Ostrander Auditorium

“Be grEAT,” a new mini-documentary following Maverick Basketball’s Malik Willingham premieres Friday, Sept. 13, at 6:30 p.m. in Ostrander Auditorium.

An RSVP to the premiere is requested on the official “Be grEAT” website. The RSVP does not reserve a seat; admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Your response provides pre-event awareness of attendance. Maximum seating in Ostrander Auditorium is 349.

Directed by Ben Stelter, a recent Bethany College graduate and national award-winning videographer, the film follows Malik’s final year as a Maverick and a life’s journey culminating in the 2024 NCAA DII National Championship. Adding to that excitement was Malik’s final-seconds’ pass to brother Kyreese who drained the 3-point buzzer-beater to capture the national crown.

This week, Maverick Athletes reported that Malik has taken the next step in his basketball journey by signing a professional contract with BC Kavkasia of the Georgia-Superleague.

According to the documentary’s website, “Be grEAT” follows the Willingham brothers’ youth largely spent on a pick-up court in Waseca, Minn., along with challenges toward finding success as a student-athlete. Highlighting Malik’s “unwavering perseverance and positive attitude,” the documentary delves into such themes as “loyalty, determination and the unique responsibilities that come with the spotlight.”

The film also looks at Malik’s work with Waseca youth, which helped shape his commitment and his appeal as a role model. “I just want kids to know that you’re never alone,” Malik said. “Just make the most of what you have in life.”

Stelter’s project is the latest among multiple video projects for professional and collegiate sports teams across the Midwest. In 2022, his work was recognized with four national awards: two from the Broadcast Education Association and another two from the Upper Midwest Emmy® Chapter/Foundation.

According to an April 2024 feature in the Mankato Free Press, Stelter followed the Willinghams and the Mavericks basketball squad through last season’s quest for a national title.

“It’s truly been the most ambitious project that I’ve ever been a part of,” Stelter told the Free Press. “It’s going to be 40 minutes to an hour long … it’s such an awesome project to be a part of.”