Mark Wahlberg and Caron Butler are teaming up to produce a film version of Butler's autobiography. Here's the press release:

NBA Champion and Sacramento Kings Forward Caron Butler and actor/producer Mark Wahlberg and his partners at Leverage Entertainment, Inc., Music for the People, Inc. and Closest to the Hole Productions have officially entered an agreement for the future financing and production for the film version of Butler's autobiography "Tuff Juice: My Journey from the Streets to the NBA."

The two parties, which also includes Butler's agent Raymond Brothers of IAM Sports & Entertainment, signed on to work together to officially begin the process of turning the book into a motion picture.

"I wanted to tell my story because I'm living proof that it is possible to overcome adversity and make a better life for yourself and your family," said Butler. "The response from the book was overwhelming and when someone like Mark Wahlberg tells you that your life could be a movie, you listen.

"I'm excited to take the next step towards sharing my story with an even larger audience and it's a blessing to have someone as well-known and respected as Mark Wahlberg by my side."

Butler met Wahlberg while playing for the Los Angeles Clippers in 2011 and became friends. They have stayed in touch as Butler has attended Wahlberg's movie premieres and sent him a book when Tuff Juice was published.

"[Caron is] a perfect example to all the young kids growing up in tough neighborhoods to never give up on your dreams," said Wahlberg.

The memoir, which chronicles Butler's troubled youth in Racine, Wisc. to his 14-year career in the NBA and burgeoning businessman, was released in early October to high praise and significant support from fans, athletes and celebrities - including Vice President Joe Biden, Floyd Mayweather, Kobe Bryant, Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, Chris Paul and Wahlberg.

While Butler has seen much success on and off the court during his basketball career including an NBA Championship, two trips to the All Star Game and an Elite Eight run at the University Connecticut, the idea of seeing the movie version of his life is hard for even him to believe.

"There hasn't been a true NBA story told on the big screen like this," continued Butler. "We have some actors and writers in mind. I can't wait to see how it unfolds on film and be a part of the process. It is a dream come true."

"Tuff Juice: My Journey From The Streets To The NBA" is currently available in stores and for purchase and download through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million and IndieBound. A paperback version of the book will be released September 1.