Grab your popcorn and overpriced beer and settle in for the Netflix series Running Point, which might just shoot its way into the playoffs of streaming TV. Created by the dynamic comedy team of Mindy Kaling, Ike Barinholtz and David Stassen, the series introduces us to Isla Gordon, portrayed with chaotic charm by Kate Hudson. Isla, the once overlooked daughter of a basketball mastermind, finds herself thrust into the limelight as the president of the Los Angeles Waves after her brother Cam’s (Justin Theroux) scandalous exit.
You’ll immediately recognize the parallels to AppleTV’s Ted Lasso. Both series pivot around unlikely leaders stepping into sports franchises, infusing them with fresh perspectives. However, while Ted Lasso offers a folksy American navigating British soccer, Running Point flips the script with Isla’s savvy yet unpolished approach to managing an NBA team.
The ensemble cast feels so familiar, but not obvious. Drew Tarver shines as Sandy, the numbers-obsessed half-brother grappling with his place in the family and his sexuality. Scott MacArthur‘s Ness, the washed-up player turned general manager, adds a layer of comedic dysfunction. Brenda Song‘s portrayal of Ali Lee, Isla’s steadfast chief of staff, brings a refreshing dose of competence amidst the chaos. Toby Sandeman‘s Marcus Winfield reminds us of Tony Parker while Uche Agada‘s Dyson Gibbs harkens back to Ted Lasso‘s golden-hearted Sam, which was played by Toheeb Jimoh.
At its core, Running Point is a narrative on women’s empowerment. Isla’s journey from the periphery to the helm of the Waves mirrors the real-life challenges faced by women in male-dominated industries. Her strategies, often more empathetic and community-focused than her predecessors’, ruffle feathers but ultimately showcase a modern leadership style.
While Running Point may not execute a flawless fast break, it delivers engaging character development and thematic depth to keep viewers rooting for the home team. Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan (are the LA Waves actually the OKC Thunder?) or just in it for the family drama, this series offers a binge-worthy experience that, despite its shortcomings, leaves you anticipating another season and what that kiss means at the end of episode 10.
RHFC Rating: 6.5/10 🍿
