Running Point Season 1 2025

Netflix's Running Point, which premiered on February 27, 2025, offers viewers a comedic yet insightful look into the world of professional basketball. The series is co-created by Mindy Kaling, Ike Barinholtz, and David Stassen, with Kaling also serving as an executive producer alongside Jeanie Buss, the real-life owner of the Los Angeles Lakers. The show stars Kate Hudson as Isla Gordon, who unexpectedly ascends to the presidency of the Los Angeles Waves, a fictional NBA team, following a family scandal.​

Plot Overview

Isla Gordon's sudden rise to power within the Waves organization sets the stage for a series that blends family drama with the high-octane world of professional sports. Tasked with proving her capability in a male-dominated industry, Isla confronts challenges ranging from skeptical family members to the pressures of team management. The narrative delves into her personal and professional struggles, highlighting themes of gender dynamics, familial loyalty, and the pursuit of legitimacy in a world that questions her every move.​

Performance and Direction

Kate Hudson's portrayal of Isla has been a focal point in discussions about the series. Critics have lauded her performance, noting that she brings depth and authenticity to a character that could have easily been relegated to stereotypes. According to Rotten Tomatoes, Hudson's charisma is a driving force, with the site stating, "Kate Hudson continuously makes three-pointer shots with her dynamite charisma in Running Point, carrying this amusing series while it straightens out its game strategy." ​

The direction, under the guidance of David Stassen, maintains a brisk pace, ensuring that each episode delivers a mix of humor and drama. The show's tone has drawn comparisons to Ted Lasso, with its blend of optimism and character-driven storytelling. However, some critics feel that the series occasionally falters in balancing its comedic and dramatic elements. Metacritic's review points out that while Hudson's performance shines, "its stock characters and superficial storylines amount to a tepid first season that doesn't have the narrative depth nor comedic tenacity to engage." ​

Supporting Cast and Characters

The ensemble cast adds depth to the series, with each actor bringing a unique flair to their roles. Brenda Song's portrayal of Ali Lee provides a grounded counterpoint to the more eccentric characters, offering moments of levity and sincerity. Drew Tarver and Scott MacArthur's performances have been noted for their comedic timing, complementing Hudson's lead. However, some characters feel underdeveloped, with certain subplots lacking the depth needed to make them resonate. The Times of India remarks that the supporting characters are "just as lazily constructed," with descriptions that "feel like ticking diversity boxes with no depth." ​

Themes and Reception

Running Point delves into themes of family loyalty, gender dynamics in sports, and the challenges of stepping into leadership roles. The series has sparked discussions about the portrayal of women in positions of power within male-dominated industries. While some viewers appreciate the show's lighthearted approach to these serious topics, others feel that it doesn't fully explore the complexities involved.​

The reception has been mixed. Rotten Tomatoes reports a 79% critic score and an 81% audience score, indicating a generally positive response. However, Metacritic assigns a score of 58, suggesting that while the show has its merits, it may not resonate with all viewers. The Guardian's review is notably critical, stating, "Are you in the mood for a basketball comedy that has some leaden jokes and some even more leaden things to say about sexism and prejudice in the US industrial sports complex? Of course you're not." ​

Legal Controversies

Beyond critical reviews, Running Point has faced legal challenges. Pepperdine University filed a lawsuit against Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery, alleging trademark infringement over the use of the "Waves" name and associated colors. The university contends that the show's depiction could cause consumer confusion and falsely suggest an affiliation. The lawsuit also raises concerns about the series' content, stating that elements like "explicit content, substance use, nudity, and profanity" are inconsistent with the university's values. ​

Final Thoughts

Running Point offers an entertaining glimpse into the world of professional basketball through the lens of family and leadership. Kate Hudson's standout performance anchors the series, supported by a talented ensemble cast. While the show may not break new ground in its genre, it provides a refreshing take on the sports comedy, blending humor with heartfelt moments. With a second season already confirmed, fans can look forward to further developments in Isla Gordon's journey.​

For those seeking a lighthearted series that combines sports, family drama, and comedy, Running Point is worth a watch.​

News Highlight: Season 2 Confirmed

Following the dramatic cliffhanger of Season 1, Netflix has announced the renewal of Running Point for a second season. The upcoming season is expected to delve deeper into Isla Gordon's challenges, especially with the unexpected return of her brother Cam, intent on reclaiming his position. Creator Mindy Kaling has expressed excitement about continuing the series, hinting at multiple seasons exploring Isla's journey in the competitive world of professional basketball.