Review

Running Point: A Three-Pointer Comedy

Netflix’s Running Point is a binge worthy comedy series that is sure to be your next watch

Margot Klo, Managing Editor

March 27, 2025

SUMMARIZING THE SERIES

After suffering through a drought of unwatchable Netflix movies and TV shows, Netflix finally sunk a three-pointer with “Running Point,” a newly added comedy series.

“Running Point” is a refreshing take on a light-hearted sports comedy that explores sensitive topics, including addiction, misogyny, and family hardships, from the creative minds of Elaine Ko, Mindy Kaling, Ike Barinholtz, and David Stassen.

The lengthy 22-episode comedic series of the 2010s are long in the past with this new wave of shorter series and even shorter episodes becoming more and more prevalent. Running Point is not an exception to this newly formed rule.

The 10 episode series follows Isla Gordan, a former party girl who is working at the bottom of her family’s business as a Charities Coordinator for the LA Waves, a professional basketball team. Unexpectedly, Isla is appointed as the new President of the Waves after her brother Cam Gordan checks into rehab. Isla, from a young age, was a basketball superfan but was often overlooked by her father’s misogynistic views. Now, Isla aims to prove that despite her brother’s skepticism, she can manage in a male-dominated occupation.

Even though Isla has an immense love for basketball, she doesn’t know a whole lot about the business side of the company, which leads to some questionable decisions on her part. In her short time as President, she has already faced her new half-brother Jackie Moreno, a significant sponsorship falling through, and one rebellious player Travis Bugg. Isla’s knowledge of basketball, determination, and gut instincts have enabled her to improve the team and keep her brothers in line.

The main plot line of the show doesn’t stray far from its sports-centered focus but has an underlying romantic subplot in the form of a love triangle with Isla Gordan at its center that adds just enough drama to the comedic series.

THE CAST & CHARACTERS

Isla embodies “boss lady” energy while making 8 million dollar contracts with Sephora, all while wearing a red-fitted suit and 5-inch stiletto pumps. Rom-com legend Kate Hudson transforms into the passionate Isla Gordan with ease, landing jokes and making for an enjoyable watching experience.

Suite Life of Zach and Cody’s, ’ Brenda Song plays Ali Lee, the headstrong Chief of Staff that acts as Isla’s number one support system. Song transforms into Ali Lee, a character that is refreshingly different from her usual roles.

Along with these phenomenal female actors, “New Girls,” Max Greenfield makes an appearance as Lev Levenson Isla Gordan’s fiancé. Making the perfect cast for a well-rounded rom-com meets sports comedy earned its place as the number one series on Netflix for two weeks in a row.

Mindy Kaling at the premier of Running Point.

A REFRESHING NEW COMEDY FROM THE MIND OF MINDY KALING

Co-Creator Mindy Kaling created a new comedy series that spans across genres, making it a universal watch for fans of rom-coms and sports comedies.

Kaling creates a witty yet thought-provoking comedy that has you laughing out loud and then yelling at your screen. This feels different from her previous teen drama, “Never Have I Ever,” but it keeps the same woman-centered plot.

I would liken this feel-good comedy to “Office” level humor with the sports comedy flare of “Ted Lasso” and the rom-com comfort of “Nobody Wants This.”

Mindy Kaling at the premier of Running Point. (curtesy of people.com)

FAST-PACED EPISODES MAKING IT THE PERFECT BINGE

I appreciated the fast-paced nature of Running Point because, if I am being honest, my attention span after watching a series of TikTok’s is almost nonexistent at this point. It also helps keep the episodes moving and not be bogged down with smaller scenes that are more consistent with other genres of TV series.

Although I enjoyed the pace of the episodes I did wish there were more scenes with Brenda Song in them because of her character’s integral role on the LA Waves and her ability to transform into the headstrong Ali Lee.

BALANCING SPORTS WITH ROMANCE

I am not what one would call a basketball superfan, yet this comedy made me laugh in the form of granny shot three-pointers that help encourage a certain rookie on the court.

The main plotline of the show doesn’t stray far from its sports-centered focus, but has an underlying romantic sub-plot in the form of a love triangle with Isla Gordan at its center that adds just enough drama to the comedic series.

So, whether you are a fan of sports or not, this series has a well-balanced plot that doesn’t solely focus on one aspect over the other – unless it is in the pursuit of a comedic scene.

SHOULD YOU WATCH IT?

I found this series the perfect show to watch in between my regular weekly viewings of “911,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” and “Doctor Odyssey”. Now, I am not so patiently waiting for Season 2 of this perfectly balanced sports comedy series.

So, whether you are a sports super fan or a fan of Kate Hudson and Brenda Song, “Running Point” is the perfect fast-paced basketball comedy featuring witty dialogue and a great cast that you’ll easily watch in one sitting.

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