Woody Harrelson stars in the hilarious and heartwarming story of a basketball coach who is ordered by the court to manage a team of players with intellectual disabilities.

After an incident that leads to him losing his job, Marcus Marakovich, an assistant basketball coach, is given a choice by a judge: serve time in prison or do community service by coaching a team of players with learning disabilities. Marcus initially struggles with coaching this new team, but as he gets to know the players personally, he realizes that they are more than just their skills on the court. He also develops a casual sexual relationship with Johnny's sister, Alex. However, complications arise when Johnny becomes attached to Marcus and Alex becomes defensive.

Marcus tries to secure a new coaching job with the help of his former assistant coach but realizes that he has been manipulative. Instead, he asks his former assistant coach to help him coach The Friends. The team faces challenges both on and off the court, but with Marcus's guidance, they begin to improve and make it to the semi-finals. However, Marcus receives news that he has been hired by an NBA team, which causes tension with The Friends.

As the team prepares for the Special Olympics finals in Winnipeg, Marcus tries to set up a play that will have Darius make the final shot. However, his assistant coach warns him that it's a bad idea. Marcus reevaluates his coaching approach and sets up a different play, which leads to a crucial moment in the game.