# **Netflix’s *Running Point*: A Home Run for Fans of Comedy and Sports**
Netflix appears to have discovered its counterpart to *Ted Lasso*, with the narrative now taking place on the basketball court. *Running Point*, the latest comedy series crafted by Mindy Kaling, David Stassen, and Ike Barinholtz, debuted on February 27 and has rapidly captivated viewers with its blend of humor, heart, and the charm of an underdog sports story.
## **A Unique Perspective on Sports Leadership**
Featuring Kate Hudson as Isla Gordon, *Running Point* narrates the journey of a former party girl who unexpectedly becomes the head of the Los Angeles Waves, a struggling professional basketball franchise owned by her family. Isla’s shift from socialite to sports boss creates a classic fish-out-of-water scenario, as she maneuvers through the male-centric realm of professional basketball while striving to prove her worth.
“I genuinely enjoy crafting stories about driven women,” Kaling expressed in a Netflix promotional interview. “Whether they’re a 15-year-old girl from the Valley (*Never Have I Ever*) or the head of a basketball team.”
## **An Outstanding Ensemble Cast**
The show features a gifted and eccentric ensemble cast, including:
– **Drew Tarver and Scott MacArthur** portraying Isla’s goofy yet well-meaning siblings
– **Brenda Song** as her straightforward best friend and confidante
– **Chet Hanks** as the team’s troubled star player, who requires as much support off the court as he does on it
This diverse array of characters fosters a dynamic workplace comedy, blending sharp humor with poignant moments.
## **Parallels to *Ted Lasso***
Although *Running Point* leans more towards sarcastic comedy than *Ted Lasso*’s genuine optimism, both series convey a central theme: leadership is about fostering the best in others rather than having all the solutions. Isla might not be giving inspirational locker room speeches just yet, but her evolution from chaos to team captain makes for an engaging and uplifting viewing experience.
## **Audience and Critical Response**
The series has swiftly ascended the Netflix rankings, currently sitting at #2 in the U.S. It also boasts an impressive **92% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes**, indicating strong viewer approval.
Baseball analyst and broadcaster Jim Bowden took to social media to commend the show, stating:
> *“Kudos to the amazing Mindy Kaling on the new Netflix series *Running Point*, featuring Kate Hudson!! The show is the best sports sitcom since *Ted Lasso*. We binge-watched all 10 episodes last night. It’s incredible. I wholeheartedly recommend it. Fantastic characters, funny and well-crafted.”*
## **Final Thoughts: A Must-See for Comedy and Sports Enthusiasts**
With its fusion of biting humor, emotional moments, and an underdog sports narrative, *Running Point* is poised to become one of Netflix’s standout hits of the year. Whether you’re a basketball aficionado or simply enjoy a well-executed workplace comedy, this series is a must-see.
Check out the official trailer below:
Have you seen *Running Point* yet? Share your thoughts in the comments!
