When Netflix announced their new sports comedy series “Running Point” starring Kate Hudson, one person took particular notice – Los Angeles Lakers president and controlling owner Jeanie Buss. Why? Because the show’s premise bears a striking resemblance to her own real-life story.
In “Running Point,” Hudson plays a woman who unexpectedly takes over as president of the fictional Los Angeles Waves basketball team after her brother is forced to resign. Sound familiar? It certainly did to Buss, who went through a remarkably similar transition with the Lakers in 2017.
From Family Drama to Fresh Leadership
Jeanie Buss became the Lakers’ governor upon the passing of her father, longtime owner Dr. Jerry Buss, in 2013. But it wasn’t until 2017 that she truly took control, making the bold move to fire her brother Jim from his role as executive vice president of basketball operations, along with general manager Mitch Kupchak.
In their place, she appointed Lakers legend Magic Johnson as the new president of basketball operations – a move that sent shockwaves through the sports world and solidified her position as the franchise’s primary decision-maker.
Proving Herself in a Male-Dominated World
Much like Hudson’s character in “Running Point,” Jeanie Buss found herself needing to prove her leadership chops to skeptical brothers, a scrutinizing board, and the wider sports community. As a woman in the heavily male-dominated realm of professional sports, she faced an uphill battle to establish her credibility and vision.
Now that she’s stepping up into the family business, she’s going to have to prove to her skeptical brothers, the board, and the larger sports community that she was the right choice for the job.
– Netflix’s description of “Running Point”
The parallels to Buss’ own journey are uncanny. She too had to navigate complex family dynamics, overcome doubts about her suitability for the role, and chart a new course for one of the NBA’s most storied franchises – all under the bright lights of the sports media spotlight.
Life Imitates Art (or Vice Versa)
Upon seeing the promotional images and description for “Running Point,” Buss couldn’t help but point out the similarities to her own story. She took to social media, sharing side-by-side comparisons that highlighted the almost eerie resemblance.
This looks a little familiar 🤔 @mindykaling and Kate Hudson on @netflix – sounds like a winner 🏆
– Jeanie Buss on Twitter
Even the promotional image for “Running Point” closely mirrors the cover of Buss’ own 2010 book “Laker Girl,” which chronicled her experiences growing up in the shadow of her father’s legendary franchise.
As it turns out, the similarities are more than just coincidence. Buss herself is credited as an executive producer for at least one episode of “Running Point,” and the show has garnered additional Lakers ties by involving executive Linda Rambis as well. It seems Buss’ real-world experience is being mined for captivating on-screen drama.
Fiction Meets Reality
While “Running Point” is a fictionalized account, it’s clear that Buss’ trailblazing journey served as a major source of inspiration. The show even features a “once-in-a-generation” player named Marcus Winfield who draws unmistakable comparisons to Lakers superstar LeBron James.
As the lines between fiction and reality blur, “Running Point” offers a fascinating glimpse into the behind-the-scenes drama, interpersonal conflicts, and high-stakes decision-making that shape the world of professional basketball. For Jeanie Buss, it’s an opportunity to see her own groundbreaking story reflected through the lens of Hollywood storytelling.
The Road Ahead
With the show set to premiere on February 27, anticipation is high to see how closely “Running Point” will mirror Buss’ real-life experiences. Will Kate Hudson’s character face the same challenges, triumphs, and public scrutiny? Will the fictional Waves follow a similar trajectory to the Lakers under Buss’ leadership?
Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – Jeanie Buss’ trailblazing journey has already made an indelible mark on the sports world, shattering glass ceilings and redefining what it means to be a leader in the NBA. As “Running Point” brings a fictionalized version of her story to a global audience, it’s a testament to the enduring power and resonance of her remarkable achievements.
For basketball fans and casual viewers alike, “Running Point” promises a captivating look at the intersection of sports, business, and family dynamics – all anchored by the extraordinary real-life story of one of the NBA’s most influential and groundbreaking figures. As the series unfolds, it will be fascinating to see how closely it hews to Jeanie Buss’ own unparalleled journey and the enduring legacy she continues to build with the Los Angeles Lakers.
