Local basketball prodigy turned filmmaker shows inspirational film to students

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- A local success story came home to Philadelphia to inspire the next generation.

Tony Chennault is a local basketball prodigy and Neumann Goretti alum who played ball at Villanova and then became a filmmaker.

On Wednesday, he brought his documentary, "In Transition," to show students at the Mastery Charter Prep Middle at Simon Gratz in the city's Tioga-Nicetown section.

Chennault says his film focuses on the importance of overcoming adversity and finding your life's purpose.

He also sat down with the kids, listened to their worries and concerns, and spoke from the heart.

Chennault told the students to find the positive influences in your life and know that, sadly, they're not always found at home.

He also reinforced this message: If your heart is not into something, just stop. Find your passion, never do it for the money and always pay it forward.

"I like giving back. This is more important than anything because you guys are the future," said Chennault. "So if I can give back my knowledge and information of things I've been through, and if maybe one or two of you guys can learn something today, that's a positive for me. That's what it's about."

Chennault says his mother never lived long enough to see his success so he stresses don't ever tell your mom she's calling you too much, treasure every call, and thank your parents for caring and for worrying and for pushing you.