Kate Hudson leads the line in 'Running Point.'
Image: X
A sports drama led by a formidable female-driven team and starring one of my favourite actresses, Kate Hudson? Say less.
When I initially came across the debut season of “Running Point” on Netflix, I was immediately intrigued to see the Hollywood actress leading the line.
I became a fan of Hudson in the early to mid-2000s following her iconic work in films such as “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days”, “Bride Wars” and “Almost Famous”.
After a long time away from leading major projects, I was curious to see why the 47-year-old chose this basketball drama - set in the messy, male-dominated world of professional sports - for her return to the spotlight.
When the show’s debut season dropped on the global streamer in February last year, I was pleasantly surprised. The series, co-created by actress-turned-producer Mindy Kaling, delivers far more than expected.
“Running Point” centres around Isla Gordon (Hudson), a former party girl from an American billionaire family that owns the fictional professional basketball team, the Los Angeles Waves.
When she is unexpectedly tasked with taking over as team president, she must prove herself in a high-stakes, male-dominated industry while navigating family power struggles, sceptical executives and the pressure of keeping the franchise competitive.
Viewers are taken on a comical and emotional journey as Isla steps into leadership after her brother steps down amid personal and professional chaos. The tone blends light comedy with corporate dysfunction and family drama, with episodes focusing just as much on sibling rivalry as on basketball.
This is a compelling role for Hudson, who portrays a female-led character who is flawed, ambitious, entitled, and unexpectedly capable - all at once.
What elevates “Running Point” even further is its strong ensemble cast. Brenda Song stars as Ali Lee, Isla’s long-time best friend, who is pulled into the spotlight as the team’s Chief of Staff.
Justin Theroux, Kate Hudson and Drew Tarver in 'Running Point.'
Image: X
Meanwhile, Justin Theroux and Drew Tarver bring depth and versatility as Isla’s dysfunctional brothers.
In season one, much of the tension centres on a sibling coup, as Sandy (Tarver) and Ness (Theroux) stage a vote of no confidence in an attempt to remove her. However, Isla’s underdog arc prevails as she outmanoeuvres them and secures the board’s support.
Other highlights include internal team secrets being leaked to a sports podcaster, a high-stakes playoff push that takes the team to Game 7 and romantic tension as sparks fly between Isla and Coach Jay (Jay Ellis).
In season two, which premiered on Netflix last month, Isla is now firmly established as president of the Los Angeles Waves - but stability is still far from guaranteed. She continues to prove she can handle the daily operations of the franchise while family tensions escalate further.
This season leans more into boardroom power struggles, deeper character exploration, and the question of whether Isla can evolve from “unexpected leader” into a legitimate long-term executive.
If season one was about whether Isla can do the job, season two asks whether she can keep it -not just survive, but thrive, and lead the franchise to victory.
Key moments this season include the return of Cam fresh out of rehab, coaching drama, and attempts to poach key figures from Isla’s inner circle.
Isla also faces heightened relationship turmoil while remaining determined to push the team toward a championship win.
Overall, “Running Point” sits somewhere between a workplace comedy, family drama, and sports-business political satire - landing somewhere between “Ted Lasso” and “Succession”.
It is not the most groundbreaking show of its kind and likely won’t sweep awards season. Some storylines feel predictable, and a few character arcs could benefit from deeper development.
However, it remains an easy, bingeable escape with enough charm and energy to keep viewers invested. The strongest asset is still Hudson, who carries the series with confidence, humour and charisma. The ensemble also delivers strong chemistry that makes the dynamics enjoyable to watch.
Ultimately, while it doesn’t reinvent the genre, it delivers a fun and engaging watch with just enough drama, humour and heart to keep you coming back.
* I give “Running Point” three out of five stars.