Watch Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty

In a nostalgic dramedy series, Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty is a sports show that depicts the rise of the Los Angeles Lakers basketball team during the 1980s. The program follows the journey of the team from its early days under the charismatic and divisive ownership of Jerry Buss, to the later years under the leadership of the legendary coach, Pat Riley.

The cast includes John C. Reilly as Jerry Buss, reflecting the feelings of the eccentric and flamboyant owner who revolutionized the NBA with his “Showtime” Lakers, Quincy Isaiah as former superstar Magic Johnson, and Jason Clarke as Pat Riley.

As the title indicates, the drama focuses on the enduring battles between the Lakers, who had become a dominant NBA team after several years of struggle, and their rivals, the Boston Celtics. It delves into the Lakers’ quest to establish themselves as one of the greatest sports teams and create a dynasty that will be remembered for generations.

The show features a host of guest stars, such as Adam McKay, who serves as an executive producer, Shea Whigham as former Boston Celtics player and eventual Laker, Bob McAdoo, and Sally Field as Jessie Buss, the daughter of Jerry Buss.

The series primarily comprises several thematic elements that form the backbone of the entire show, including the rise of Magic Johnson from a talented yet untested rookie to a world-beating superstar, the incredible work ethic and visionary leadership of Pat Riley, and the fearless competitiveness and chemistry of the Lakers’ fabled “Showtime” roster.

Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty expertly leverages the flamboyant lifestyles of the 80s generation, detailing the rise of Buss, with his struggles to remain financially afloat while still managing to deliver a world-shattering team. It is also a throwback to the golden age of basketball, with live-action clips of games accompanied by some of the era’s most famous soundtracks and an expertly choreographed soundtrack of its own, weaved seamlessly into the drama.

Additionally, the series expertly captures the meta-nature of the NBA, one in which the struggles, battles with addiction, and inconsistent behavior of its players is not shied away from but is rather embraced as part of the alluring NBA brand. The show is also littered with characters only a Lakers fan would know, such as the iconic fan Jack Nicholson and Lakers broadcasting legend Chick Hearn.

The show's writing is phenomenal, drawing poignant parallels between sportsworthy events and the cultural and societal events of the time. It expertly weaves together heartwarming moments, controversial elements, and introspective moments to deliver a well-balanced and enjoyable show.

In conclusion, Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty is a fantastic sports show that every NBA fan could enjoy. However, it does more than just showcase incredible basketball play. It’s an unapologetic salute to the highs and lows of the sport and what it means to be a fan, not just of the game, but of a team as well. With an outstanding cast portraying some of history’s most revered basketball players, the show promises to be a memorable dramedy that leaves viewers wishing there were more than eight episodes in the first season.

Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty is a series that ran for 2 seasons (17 episodes) between March 6, 2022 and on HBO