Netflix’s Running Point isn’t just a sports drama—it’s a raw, resilient portrait of Jeanie Buss and her journey to becoming one of the most powerful women in professional basketball.
The Rise of Jeanie Buss on Running Point
In Running Point, Netflix offers a compelling glimpse into the world of Jeanie Buss, owner and president of the Los Angeles Lakers. This biographical drama is more than a tale of sports dominance—it’s a powerful narrative about female leadership, family power struggles, and the emotional cost of success in a male-dominated industry.
Portrayed by a standout Bridgerton alum, Buss is depicted not just as a business titan but as a woman constantly proving herself in a world that never expected her to lead.
Related Read: Athletes as Brands: How Sports Figures Became Cultural Icons
Jeanie Buss: The Legacy, The Pressure, The Power
The series begins with Dr. Jerry Buss passing the reins to Jeanie—setting off a multi-layered battle between family loyalty, business dominance, and gendered expectations.
Key moments include:
- Heated clashes with her brothers over franchise direction
- Jeanie’s strategic assertion of authority in boardrooms
- The pressure to protect the Lakers’ legacy while carving her own path
For more on women shaping the game: Why WNBA Viewership Is Surging in 2025
One of the show’s most striking moments comes when Jeanie faces her brothers, who are equally invested in the family business but reluctant to acknowledge her leadership. The tension is palpable, and we see her fight not just for her place as an executive but also for respect as a woman in a position of power.
Quotes from Jeanie Buss in Running Point
“I didn’t just wake up one day as the owner of the Lakers. There was a lot of sweat, sacrifice, and lessons along the way.”
“Being the owner of a team isn’t just about calling the shots; it’s about leading by example—even when the world is watching your every move.”
What Makes Running Point Stand Out
Personal Vulnerability
The show dives deeply into Jeanie’s personal relationships, giving viewers an emotional portrait of love, loss, and solitude. It’s a choice that humanizes a sports figure often viewed only through a public lens.
Her Relationships with NBA Legends
Scenes with Kobe Bryant and Magic Johnson offer both nostalgic moments and insight into her balance of emotional connection and executive decision-making. They reflect the emotional intelligence necessary for leading a dynasty.
Learn more about Kobe and Jeanie’s relationship in Kobe: The Legend Lives On
Highlights of the Series
The Casting: Exceptional performances bring Lakers figures to life—especially the actor portraying Magic Johnson, whose humor and charisma jump off the screen.
Family Power Struggles: Boardroom scenes mirror classic drama series, filled with politics, betrayal, and power plays.
Emotional Depth: It’s not all glitz—there’s grit, too. Jeanie’s emotional arc drives the show forward.
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Final Thoughts: A Must-Watch Power Story
Netflix’s Running Point isn’t just for sports fans. It’s for anyone interested in:
- Women in leadership
- Family dynasties under pressure
- The emotional cost of success
- The future of sports ownership
As Jeanie Buss says:
“I didn’t get here by accident—and neither will you.”
Trailer
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