In the realm of captivating dramas, true brilliance comes from stepping outside the conventional lines. Max Borenstein and Jim Hecht, the masterminds behind Winning Time, understand this concept wholeheartedly. They recognize that to truly captivate viewers, the show must transcend the boundaries of basketball. Winning Time, at its essence, is a profound exploration of ego, power, the sacrifices made under the spotlight, and the individuals who shape and shatter the game. Does the second season, premiering on HBO this Sunday, achieve this lofty form? It manages to do so on occasion.
The first season faced considerable backlash and backlash from the real-life figures portrayed in the series. The likes of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Jerry West, legendary figures in the history of the Los Angeles Lakers, expressed disappointment with the show’s interpretation of events. The second season remains faithful to this approach, albeit with a less pronounced focus on portraying West as an explosive alcoholic.
Despite being condensed to seven episodes from the original ten, the second season of Winning Time efficiently tracks the Lakers’ ascension to greatness. Head coach Paul Westhead, portrayed by Jason Segel, grapples with internal strife that threatens to tear the team apart from within. Meanwhile, Jerry Buss, the team’s owner played by John C. Reilly, jeopardizes the health of his burgeoning dynasty with a series of frustrating missteps. On the court, Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, and Norm Nixon, portrayed by Solomon Hughes, Quincy Isaiah, and DeVaughn Nixon respectively, navigate their roles with differing approaches. Although a whirlwind of events unfolds, the writers carefully present them in a manner that doesn’t overwhelm viewers with a barrage of names, positions, and responsibilities.
Winning Time’s inclination towards dramatic storytelling over strict accuracy reflects the understanding of Borenstein and Hecht that their foremost responsibility is to captivate the audience. To achieve this, the show stretches the truth, entertains “what-if” scenarios, and exaggerates certain dynamics. While not always graceful in its portrayals, particularly with West and Buss, the show’s good intentions are enough to forgive its occasional lapses in empathy. Crucial historical milestones, such as Westhead’s firing, Pat Riley taking over, and the Magic Johnson-Larry Bird rivalry, remain largely intact. The creative team meticulously expands upon these pivotal moments across multiple episodes, treating them as the seismic shifts they were.
However, Winning Time suffers from a sense of self-importance that weighs it down. The showrunners often overestimate the audience’s interest in their detailed explanations and unnecessary context. Inquiring into Bird’s recruitment for 15 minutes or delving into Buss’ inability to have a peaceful family game night without demanding cutthroat competitiveness is superfluous. These aspects do not resonate with viewers, yet they are forced upon us by the writers.
Thankfully, the remarkable cast of Winning Time saves it from mediocrity. The performances are simply too impressive for the writing to diminish their impact, and this becomes even more evident by the time the final episode concludes. Reilly remains a cherished presence, even if his portrayal of Buss veers towards caricature rather than seriousness. Isaiah, Hughes, and Nixon are irresistible when they share the screen, their chemistry undeniable. Adrien Brody and Jason Segel skillfully convey the pain, ambition, and mutual respect that define the friendship between Pat Riley and Paul Westhead. This dynamic is one of the show’s few wholesomely portrayed relationships, providing a narrative lifeline for both the characters and the audience.
Fortunately, the exceptional cast of Winning Time elevates it beyond mediocrity.
While not revolutionary, Winning Time’s second season delivers serviceable television that will likely satisfy forgiving NBA fans and enthusiasts of sports history.
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Basant Kasayap is an entertainment aficionado who delves into the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry. From Hollywood to Bollywood to regional cinema, she offers readers an insider’s perspective on the world of movies, music, and pop culture.
