Kate Hudson’s new Netflix comedy series “Running Point” premieres today, February 27, 2025. Created by Elaine Ko and executive produced by Mindy Kaling, the show follows Isla Gordon, a reformed party girl unexpectedly appointed to head her family’s professional basketball team. The half-hour comedy showcases Hudson’s return to the small screen in a role that combines sports, business, and family dynamics in what promises to be one of Netflix’s standout releases this year.
The series brings together an impressive creative team, with Kaling co-writing and executive producing alongside Ike Barinholtz and David Stassen, who also serves as showrunner. Netflix released the official trailer earlier this year with the tagline “The balls are in her court now. Game on, boys,” setting the tone for this female-led sports comedy that challenges gender norms in professional athletics.
Viewers can expect a blend of workplace comedy and sports drama as Hudson’s character navigates the challenges of proving herself in a male-dominated industry. The series marks a significant addition to Netflix’s comedy lineup and continues the streaming platform’s commitment to showcasing established film stars in original series content.
Plot Overview
In “Running Point,” Kate Hudson takes on the role of Isla Gordon, a reformed party girl who unexpectedly ascends to the presidency of her family’s professional basketball team, the Los Angeles Waves. The series delves into Isla’s journey as she navigates the complexities of team management, familial dynamics, and the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated industry.
Inspiration and Development
The series draws inspiration from the real-life experiences of Jeanie Buss, the president of the Los Angeles Lakers. Buss collaborated with creators Mindy Kaling, Ike Barinholtz, and David Stassen to bring this story to life, aiming to provide a comedic yet insightful look into the inner workings of a professional basketball franchise. Buss and her long-time associate, Linda Rambis, serve as executive producers, ensuring an authentic portrayal of the sports world.
Cast and Characters
“Running Point” boasts a talented ensemble cast:
- Kate Hudson as Isla Gordon: The newly appointed president striving to prove her capabilities.
- Justin Theroux as Cameron “Cam” Gordon: Isla’s older brother whose scandal leads to her unexpected promotion.
- Scott MacArthur as Ness Gordon: The general manager and former professional player, offering a unique perspective on team operations.
- Drew Tarver as Sandy Gordon: The younger half-brother and CFO, bringing a blend of humor and financial acumen.
- Brenda Song as Ali Lee: Isla’s best friend and chief of staff, providing unwavering support.
- Max Greenfield as Lev Levinson: Isla’s long-time fiancé, adding depth to her personal life.
- Jay Ellis as Jay Brown: The head coach, guiding the team with a calm and strategic approach.
- Chet Hanks as Travis Bugg: A player whose unpredictable behavior adds complexity to team dynamics.
- Toby Sandeman as Marcus Winfield: The team’s star player, grappling with personal and professional challenges.
Reception and Critiques
“Running Point” has elicited a spectrum of responses from critics and audiences alike. Some reviewers commend the series for its engaging ensemble cast and the dynamic portrayal of family and professional challenges within a sports franchise. The blend of humor, drama, and romance has been highlighted as a strength, offering a multifaceted viewing experience.
However, other critiques point to areas where the series may not fully resonate. Some suggest that while the premise holds promise, certain aspects of the writing and character development could benefit from deeper exploration to avoid reliance on familiar tropes.
Key Takeaways
- “Running Point” debuts today on Netflix featuring Kate Hudson as a former party girl who must prove herself running her family’s basketball team.
- The comedy series is executive produced by Mindy Kaling with showrunner David Stassen bringing together sports, business and family elements.
- All episodes of the half-hour comedy are available now for streaming in Netflix’s growing lineup of star-powered original programming.
Overview of ‘Running Point’
“Running Point” offers viewers a glimpse into the high-stakes world of professional basketball management through the lens of a woman breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field. With its blend of humor, drama, and a stellar cast, the series presents a fresh take on sports entertainment. Whether you’re a basketball enthusiast or simply in search of a new show to binge, “Running Point” is now streaming on Netflix, ready to take you courtside into the thrilling world of the Los Angeles Waves.
‘Running Point’ premiered on February 27, 2025, on Netflix. The comedy series stars Kate Hudson as Isla Gordon, a former party girl who unexpectedly becomes the head of her family’s professional basketball team, the Los Angeles Waves.
The 10-episode series comes from the creative minds of Mindy Kaling, Ike Barinholtz, and David Stassen. It combines elements reminiscent of ‘Succession’ and ‘Ted Lasso’ as it follows Isla’s journey in the male-dominated world of professional sports.
Hudson’s casting is described as “pitch-perfect” for the lead role. The show centers on her character’s attempts to prove herself as a businesswoman while taking charge of one of the most famous professional basketball franchises.
The series reportedly has an uneven start but improves as it progresses. Critics note that while the pilot shows promise with an interesting premise, viewers who stick with the show will find the complete season more rewarding.
Jay Ellis also stars in the series, though the specific details of his role aren’t mentioned in the available information. The show explores the challenges of running a family business, particularly one in the competitive world of professional basketball.
‘Running Point’ fits into Netflix’s growing catalog of sports comedies. The half-hour format makes it a quick-paced viewing experience that tackles themes of personal growth, family dynamics, and navigating a traditionally male-dominated industry.
Release Date and Trailer
“Running Point” is officially available on Netflix as of February 27, 2025. The comedy series, executive produced by Mindy Kaling, was released at midnight EST, bringing Kate Hudson back to the small screen in a leading role.
Netflix unveiled the official trailer weeks before the release, giving viewers a glimpse into the world of Isla Gordon (Hudson), an executive who unexpectedly becomes the head of her family’s professional sports business. The trailer showcases Hudson’s character facing the challenges of managing a male-dominated industry with the tagline “The balls are in her court now. Game on, boys.”
The series has been in development since June 2021, making it one of Netflix’s most anticipated comedy releases for 2025. Fans of both Kate Hudson and Mindy Kaling’s previous work had been eagerly awaiting this collaboration.
The full first season consists of 10 episodes, all released simultaneously in typical Netflix fashion. This allows viewers to binge-watch the entire season at their own pace.
Cast Highlights:
- Kate Hudson as Isla Gordon
- Drew Tarver
- Scott MacArthur
- Brenda Song
- Jay Ellis as Jay Brown
The trailer’s reception has been positive, with many praising Hudson’s return to comedy and the show’s irreverent tone as classified by Netflix’s own genre tags.
The Cast of ‘Running Point’
Netflix’s new comedy series “Running Point” features an impressive ensemble cast led by Kate Hudson. The show revolves around Isla Gordon, who unexpectedly becomes president of her family’s basketball franchise, the fictional team called the Waves.
Main Roles and Characters
Kate Hudson stars as Isla Gordon, the unexpected president of the basketball team trying to revive one of the greatest franchises in history. Hudson’s return to a leading role marks a welcome comeback, showcasing her comedic talents in this Mindy Kaling-created series.
Mindy Kaling, known for hits like “Never Have I Ever,” serves as the creator behind this 10-episode comedy. Justin Theroux appears as Isla’s older brother, the one who surprisingly appoints her to the leadership position.
Brenda Song joins the cast, bringing her comedic experience to the basketball franchise storyline. The show centers on Isla’s attempts to resuscitate the team while navigating her new leadership role despite having little experience in the sports world.
Supporting Cast
Drew Tarver and Scott MacArthur round out the supporting ensemble with their performances as key figures within the basketball organization. Their characters help flesh out the world of professional basketball management that Isla must learn to navigate.
Chet Hanks and Toby Sandeman add to the dynamic cast, likely portraying players or other sports executives within the franchise. Fabrizio Guido brings additional depth to the team dynamic.
Keyla Monterroso Mejia appears in the series, adding her comedic talents to the mix. The supporting cast creates the world of “The Waves” basketball team, providing both obstacles and assistance as Isla attempts to prove herself in her new role.
Guest Appearances
The series features several notable guest stars who enhance the basketball world setting. Jay Ellis makes an appearance, adding star power to the show’s roster of talent.
Uche Agada and Dane Diliegro appear in guest roles that likely bring authentic basketball elements to the series. These appearances help ground the show in the sports world it portrays.
Roberto Sanchez and others including Ana Moreno and Jackie Moreno make appearances throughout the series. The guest stars help create a believable basketball franchise environment, adding authenticity to this comedy about an unlikely team president trying to resurrect a once-great organization.
Production Team
The success of “Running Point” stems from a talented team of creators and producers who brought this sports comedy series to life. The collaborative effort behind the scenes includes industry veterans with impressive track records in television comedy.
Executive Producers
Mindy Kaling leads the executive production team through her production company, Kaling International. Her experience creating hit shows like “Never Have I Ever” brings significant credibility to the project. Kaling partnered with Ike Barinholtz and David Stassen, both accomplished comedy writers and producers known for their work on various television projects.
Max Greenfield, who viewers may recognize from “New Girl,” also serves as an executive producer, adding his comedic sensibility to the show’s development. The production team benefits from Warner Bros. Television’s support, providing industry resources and distribution expertise.
This collection of talent combines established television veterans with fresh creative voices to deliver the show’s unique blend of sports culture and workplace comedy.
Directors
The directorial team for “Running Point” brought visual cohesion to the series while maintaining the distinct comedic tone established by the writers. Multiple directors contributed to the first season, allowing for varied approaches to the material while maintaining consistency across episodes.
Each director worked closely with Kate Hudson and the ensemble cast to capture both the corporate drama and sports elements that define the show. The directors employed a visual style that highlights the contrast between the polished corporate world and the chaotic nature of professional sports management.
Several episodes feature dynamic basketball sequences that required specialized sports cinematography techniques. These action moments are balanced with intimate character moments, showcasing the directors’ versatility.
Writers
Elaine Ko serves as the head writer and showrunner, bringing her experience from successful comedy series to establish the show’s voice. Ko collaborated with a writers’ room that includes diverse talents with backgrounds in both comedy and sports entertainment.
The writing team crafted storylines that balance workplace humor with authentic sports culture elements. Their scripts showcase Kate Hudson’s character navigating her unexpected leadership role while developing the supporting characters’ arcs throughout the season.
Ike Barinholtz and David Stassen contributed significantly to the writing process, infusing their signature humor into key episodes. The team’s writing emphasizes both comedic moments and more dramatic elements that explore the challenges of women in leadership positions within male-dominated sports organizations.
Reception
“Running Point,” the new Netflix comedy starring Kate Hudson, premiered on February 27, 2025, with mixed reviews from critics. Some viewers reported feeling “desperate for it to end,” highlighting a polarized reception for the show.
Despite critical division, the series boasts an impressive cast that includes Justin Theroux, Brenda Song, and Chet Hanks, which is likely to attract Netflix subscribers regardless of reviews.
Kate Hudson, known for her role in “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery,” leads the series as Isla Gordon, an executive unexpectedly appointed to head her family’s professional basketball team. Her previous work earned her acclaim, though critics seem divided on her performance in this comedy series.
The show comes from creator Mindy Kaling, known for hit series like “Never Have I Ever,” adding star power behind the camera as well. Kaling’s involvement raised expectations for the comedy, though initial reactions suggest it may not have met all viewers’ hopes.
Netflix has positioned “Running Point” as a major release, with all ten episodes available for streaming at once. The platform continues its strategy of recruiting established film stars like Hudson to headline original series.
While Hudson hasn’t secured a Golden Globe for this role, her previous Golden Globe-winning work demonstrates the caliber of talent Netflix recruited for the series.
Cultural Impact
“Running Point” has quickly become a cultural touchstone in the streaming landscape. The show’s portrayal of Isla Gordon, played by Kate Hudson, navigating the male-dominated world of professional basketball ownership resonates with many viewers.
The series draws inevitable comparisons to real-life figures like Jeanie Buss, president of the Los Angeles Lakers. This parallel adds authenticity to the fictional Gordon family dynamics depicted in the show.
By combining elements from beloved shows like “Ted Lasso” and “Succession,” Netflix has created a unique viewing experience that appeals to sports fans and comedy enthusiasts alike.
The timing of the show’s February 27, 2025 release coincides with growing conversations about women in sports leadership positions. This relevance has sparked discussions across social media platforms about representation in professional sports.
Hudson’s return to a leading role has been particularly celebrated by fans. Her performance showcases the challenges women face when proving their business savvy and basketball knowledge in traditionally male spaces.
The fictional Gordon family’s struggles mirror real tensions that exist in family-owned sports franchises. These authentic portrayals help viewers connect with characters that feel layered and developed.
Sports communities have embraced the show for its honest depiction of front-office politics. The series doesn’t shy away from showing the complex relationships between executives, coaches, and players.
Behind The Scenes
“Running Point,” created by Mindy Kaling for Netflix, offers viewers a glimpse into the high-profile world of professional basketball team management. The series, which premiered on February 27, 2025, combines workplace comedy with sports drama.
The show’s production team worked closely with basketball consultants to ensure authentic representation of NBA team operations. This attention to detail helps create a believable environment where the comedy can unfold naturally.
Kate Hudson leads the cast as Isla Gordon, a reformed party girl who unexpectedly takes charge of her family’s professional basketball team. Her character navigates the glamorous yet challenging world of sports management.
Production Details:
- Created by: Mindy Kaling
- Studio: Warner Bros. Television
- Release Date: February 27, 2025
- Platform: Netflix
The comedy series draws comparisons to “Ted Lasso” in its approach to sports-based workplace humor. However, “Running Point” focuses specifically on the executive side of professional basketball rather than coaching.
Filming took place primarily in Los Angeles, where the fictional team is based. This setting allows the show to capture both the business aspects and the celebrity culture surrounding professional sports.
The writers’ room for “Running Point” included several former sports journalists and entertainment industry veterans. This diverse group of writers helped balance the technical aspects of basketball operations with accessible humor.
Themes and Motifs
“Running Point” weaves several compelling themes throughout its narrative. The show balances professional ambition with personal growth as characters navigate the high-stakes world of basketball management.
Resilience stands out as a central theme, with Kate Hudson’s character facing numerous challenges in the male-dominated sports industry. Her journey reflects the show’s commitment to exploring perseverance in difficult circumstances.
Family dynamics play a significant role, creating both tension and support systems for the main characters. These relationships add emotional depth to the basketball comedy’s otherwise competitive atmosphere.
The series cleverly examines the intersection of business and passion. Characters must balance financial decisions with their love for the game, creating moral dilemmas that drive the plot forward.
Personal growth emerges as characters face setbacks and victories. The show demonstrates how professional challenges often catalyze profound personal development.
The basketball setting serves as more than backdrop—it becomes a metaphor for life’s competitions and collaborations. Team dynamics mirror relationship patterns seen off the court.
Power struggles and hierarchies within the basketball organization reveal themes about leadership and authority. Different management styles clash, raising questions about effective leadership.
The comedy effectively uses humor to explore serious topics like gender bias in sports. This approach makes difficult conversations more accessible while maintaining entertainment value.
Similar to “Ted Lasso,” the show incorporates optimism and team spirit as recurring motifs. However, it balances these with “Succession”-like examinations of ambition and business strategy.
Marketing and Promotion
Netflix launched a strategic marketing campaign for “Running Point” ahead of its February 27, 2025 premiere. The streaming giant leveraged Kate Hudson’s star power in promotional materials, positioning her comedy debut as a must-watch event.
The official trailer, released three weeks before the premiere, showcased Hudson’s performance as Isla Gordon, highlighting the show’s unique premise of an executive unexpectedly taking over a professional basketball team. The trailer garnered significant social media attention, particularly on Instagram and Twitter.
Netflix partnered with several NBA teams for cross-promotional events, creating buzz among sports fans. These collaborations included special screening events in major markets like Los Angeles and New York.
Digital billboards in key metropolitan areas featured the show’s ensemble cast, including Max Greenfield, Jay Ellis, and Brenda Song. The marketing emphasized the creative team behind the series, particularly Mindy Kaling’s involvement as a producer.
Social media campaigns included behind-the-scenes content and cast interviews. These materials highlighted the show’s blend of workplace comedy and sports themes, drawing comparisons to successful shows like “Ted Lasso” and “Succession.”
Netflix also implemented targeted streaming promotions, featuring “Running Point” prominently on its home page and recommendation algorithms. Subscribers received personalized notifications based on their viewing history of similar comedies or sports-related content.
Pre-release critic screenings generated early reviews that Netflix incorporated into later marketing materials. These reviews particularly praised Hudson’s performance and the show’s ensemble cast chemistry.
Viewer Engagement
“Running Point” has quickly captured audience attention since its Netflix debut. The sports comedy about a dysfunctional family owning an NBA team in Los Angeles offers viewers a unique blend of humor and basketball culture.
Social media buzz indicates positive reception for Kate Hudson’s performance in her return to a starring role. Many fans have compared the show’s appeal to a mix of “Ted Lasso” and “Succession,” highlighting its ability to combine sports drama with family dynamics.
Netflix’s viewer metrics suggest the half-hour comedy format is working well for audience retention. The platform reports high completion rates despite some viewers noting an uneven start to the series.
Interactive elements on Netflix’s supplementary content page allow fans to explore bonus videos and cast interviews. These extras have helped build a community around the show’s fictional basketball team.
Audience demographics skew toward sports fans and comedy enthusiasts, with many appreciating the authentic basketball references. The show’s tagline “Gordons don’t lose” has become a popular reference point in viewer discussions.
Critics and viewers alike praise the supporting cast, including Brenda Song as the team’s chief of staff. The ensemble nature of the show provides multiple characters for viewers to connect with and follow throughout the season.
Live-tweeting during episodes has become popular among fans, creating a shared viewing experience. This real-time engagement has helped build word-of-mouth momentum for the series.
Frequently Asked Questions
“Running Point” has officially premiered on Netflix as of February 27, 2025. The comedy series follows Kate Hudson as Isla Gordon, who unexpectedly becomes the president of a professional basketball team. Here’s what viewers want to know about this new show.
Who are the main cast members in ‘Running Point’ on Netflix?
Kate Hudson leads the cast as Isla Gordon, the ambitious sister unexpectedly appointed as President of the Los Angeles Waves basketball team. Her character navigates the challenges of running a professional sports organization while dealing with family dynamics.
Brenda Song plays Ali Lee, the Chief of Staff of the Waves and Isla’s greatest ally in the organization. Their professional relationship forms a key part of the show’s workplace dynamics.
The series comes from creator Mindy Kaling, known for hits like “Never Have I Ever,” bringing her distinctive comedy style to the world of professional basketball management.
Can I watch ‘Running Point’ if I don’t have a Netflix subscription?
“Running Point” is a Netflix original series, meaning it’s exclusively available on the Netflix platform. Viewers need an active Netflix subscription to access the show.
Netflix offers various subscription tiers with different pricing options, allowing viewers to choose a plan that fits their budget. No other streaming services or networks currently have rights to stream “Running Point.”
What are the critic and audience reviews saying about ‘Running Point’?
Critics have noted similarities between “Running Point” and other workplace comedies, with some reviews comparing elements of the show to “Ted Lasso” in its approach to sports management storytelling.
The combination of Kate Hudson’s performance and Mindy Kaling’s comedic writing has received positive attention from viewers. The chemistry between the cast members, particularly Hudson and Song, has been highlighted as one of the show’s strengths.
Is ‘Running Point’ currently trending as number one on Netflix?
As a new release that just premiered on February 27, 2025, “Running Point” has generated significant viewer interest. The show’s star power with Kate Hudson and creator Mindy Kaling has helped drive initial viewership.
Netflix typically updates its trending rankings based on viewer numbers, but specific ranking information changes frequently. The show’s placement in Netflix’s top rankings may vary by region and viewership patterns.
How does ‘Running Point’ compare to other top-rated shows on Netflix?
“Running Point” joins Netflix’s lineup of workplace comedies, offering a fresh setting in the world of professional basketball. Its focus on a female executive in the male-dominated sports world provides a distinctive angle compared to other Netflix comedies.
The show’s blend of sports, family dynamics, and workplace humor creates a unique position in Netflix’s content library. Unlike some of Netflix’s more dramatic offerings, “Running Point” leans into comedy while still addressing professional challenges.
What genre does ‘Running Point’ fall under and is it similar to ‘Kinda Pregnant’?
“Running Point” is primarily categorized as a workplace comedy with elements of sports drama. The series focuses on professional relationships and challenges within a basketball organization rather than personal life situations.
Unlike “Kinda Pregnant,” which deals with personal life and family planning themes, “Running Point” centers on professional ambition and corporate management in the sports industry. Both shows come from the comedy genre but tackle completely different subject matter and settings.
