In 1990, Jackie “Blackjack” Ryan was recognized as one of the top street basketball players in New York City, and invited to the NJ Nets free agent rookie camp. By 1999, he made history as the first white Showman for the Harlem Wizards. After two years touring the world with the Harlem Wizards, Jack ventured out on his own as The Hoopwizard. In 2013, his life became the focus of a Netflix documentary.
Finally, in 2020, the Hollywood biopic feature film, “Blackjack: The Jackie Ryan Story”, was released, marking a major milestone in his incredible journey. As Jack celebrates the anniversary of his movie on October 30, he’s introducing exciting new entertainment and services, showcasing his ongoing EVOLUTION!
FROM STREETS TO A NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY AND HOLLYWOOD BIOPIC MOVIE
In 1990, Jackie Ryan was recognized as one of the top basketball players in New York City and was invited to the New Jersey Nets free agent rookie camp. By 1999, he made history as the first white Showman for the Harlem Wizards. In 2015, after undergoing total knee replacement surgery, he was back on the court just four months later. In 2017, Jackie had an ablation procedure for AFib, followed by an aortic valve replacement in 2019, the same year he was diagnosed with ADHD. Unstoppable, he underwent a second ablation procedure for AFib in 2023. His resilience and determination are immortalized in the 2020 Hollywood biopic, Blackjack: The Jackie Ryan Story, chronicling his rise to become a streetball legend after starting his career at 37. Jackie’s story is a testament to overcoming every obstacle, with his indomitable spirit shining through every challenge.
Jackie Ryan’s accolades include being a 3-time Guinness World Record holder, ESPN’s National 3-Point Champion, ranked #19 in Complex.com's 25 Greatest Streetball Players of All Time, and recognized as one of SLAM Magazine’s Greatest Playground Legends of All Time, and in 2024 invited to play at the NBA-ALL STAR CELEBRITY GAME.
Jackie’s basketball artistry is a blend of elegance, precision, and strength—a fluid display of motion honed and celebrated on the iconic courts of New York City’s West 4th Street, famously known as ‘The Cage.’ His seamless transitions from corporate events back to the court remain as graceful as they are powerful, telling a compelling story of Jack Ryan’s ongoing transformation and evolution.
As he celebrates the anniversary of his Hollywood biopic movie on October 30, Jack is also introducing exciting new services!
JACKIE “BLACKJACK” RYAN IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR EXCLUSIVE BOOKINGS!
Looking to elevate your next event with one of basketball's most captivating personalities? Jackie Ryan is now open for bookings across a variety of occasions. Whether it’s bringing energy to a birthday party, Bar or Bat Mitzvah, school assembly, summer camp entertainment, communion parties or delivering a thrilling performance at NBA college halftime shows, Jackie adds excitement and flair to any gathering.
In addition, Jackie offers Private Basketball One-on-One Shooting Sessions, Celebrity Event Appearances (including cocktail walk-throughs), Private Celebrity Parties, College and Corporate Speaking Engagements, and Guest Appearances—all infused with motivational life messages that inspire and uplift.
From kids birthday parties and boys and girls basketball entertainment, to corporate cocktail hour entertainment, Jackie's unique blend of comedy basketball shows and world-class skills will make your event truly unforgettable.
Planning for March Madness? BOOK JACK NOW for unforgettable entertainment!