1989. An American college basketball team travels from San Francisco to Beijing for a “friendship game” against a Chinese squad.
Far from friendly, the matchup quickly becomes a high-stakes battle, as the American coach fights for his reputation and his Chinese counterpart fights for his life. Both countries try to tease out the politics behind this newly popular sport.
Cultures clash as the Chinese coach tries to pick up moves from the Americans, and Chinese-American player Manford, spies on his opponents.
Caught in the middle, Manford must prove his mettle on the court while unraveling a long-kept secret. Cultures and generations clash in this kinetic, darkly comic sports drama.
Inspired by events in her own father’s life, playwright Lauren Yee applies a devilishly keen satiric eye to…her generation (and its parents).
"Full-court banter and intensity mark a gripping 'Great Leap!'" - The Washington Post
"'The Great Leap' scores with a mix of hoops and heartbreak." - Los Angeles Times