“Ball is life” may express love of the game, but in this Starting 5 sneak peek, it’s crystal clear that basketball means so much more to the NBA’s premier athletes.

“I would cut off one of my fingers to win a championship,” Boston Celtics small forward Jayson Tatum says in the preview, which introduces a cast that includes Jimmy Butler of the Miami Heat, Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves, LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers, and Domantas Sabonis of the Sacramento Kings.

The electric clip has plenty of smooth shots, but behind the scenes is where the magic really happens. Starting 5 captures its players in their intimate moments away from the game, doing everything from unwinding with their families during fleeting time between games to elaborate body maintenance during a strenuous season. The series also pulls back the curtain on the strenuous training required to remain among the very best in the league.

“Every year in the NBA, 100 players get swapped out,” Sabonis says. “You’ve got to work for your spot.”

There is perhaps no better example of keeping one’s spot than LeBron James, largely viewed as the athletic epitome of sustained greatness. Starting 5 sees James entering the Los Angeles Lakers practice facility six days before the 2023-2024 NBA season kicks off — his 21st. Despite having been around so long, James shows up with enthusiasm, energy, and a commanding presence.

“This is season 21,” James explains. “Playing over two decades, with the amount of minutes I’ve played, the amount of games I’ve played — my dedication to my work, I think it’s a huge part of the reason I’m still able to play at this level.”

The preview gives just a small sample of the full-scope look at the lives of NBA stars in Starting 5, as beloved athletes feel immense pressure while working relentlessly toward success and glory.

“It might be a game for you,” Tatum says, “but this is my life.”

Starting 5 is produced by James’ UNINTERRUPTED in association with Omaha Productions and Higher Ground Productions, and premieres on Netflix on Oct. 9.