Motaw is a fictional character in Above the Rim (1994), who is played by Wood Harris. He is a high-ranking drug dealer working for Birdie and serves as one of Birdie's most loyal and trusted enforcers off the court. On the court, he is a core player for the Birdman basketball team in the Fifth Annual Uptown Shootout, known for his explosive athleticism and intimidating, dirty playstyle.
Motaw is Birdie's closest associate, enforcing his boss's will both in the streets and on the basketball court. He works closely within Birdie's criminal organization and takes orders without hesitation. Their tight-knit relationship drives several key conflicts in the film, including Birdie's violent retaliation against Flip after Motaw is attacked.
Wearing the No. 23 jersey, Motaw combines explosive athleticism with an intimidating, high-impact playing style. Before the tournament began, Kyle Watson was set to be Birdman’s main point guard. However, when Kyle decides to cut ties with Birdie’s crew right before the competition, Birdie appoints Motaw to step up and take over as the team's starting point guard.
During the Shootout Tournament final, Motaw routinely relies on hard fouls, physical shoves, and aggressive elbows to disrupt his opponents and push the limits of the referees. However, these bully tactics prove ineffective against Shep, who matches Motaw’s intensity without backing down. Neutralizing Motaw's physical advantage, Shep dominates the matchup on both ends of the floor with composed play and precise mid-range jump shots, ultimately sealing the championship for the Bombers.
Furious and unable to accept the devastating championship loss, Birdie hands a gym bag containing a handgun to Motaw, signaling his loyal enforcer to eliminate Kyle. Following his boss's orders, Motaw pulls out the gun and opens fire on Kyle in broad daylight. Shep quickly steps in to shield Kyle, taking the bullet instead. Armed police officers securing the tournament immediately return fire, killing Motaw on the scene.
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