Netflix confirms season 3 for 'Running Point': Fans beg for longer episodes after hit comedy's renewal

Netflix sent fans of its hit show "Running Point" into a celebratory mood on Wednesday with a stylish Instagram post confirming its return. The image featured the show's star character, LA Waves president Isla Gordon, posing confidently in a bright blue suit while holding a basketball marked with a large number three.

The promotional graphic was striking, featuring the character against a bold blue and orange background, a colour scheme that reflects the team's branding. The simple caption sealed the deal: "It's always LA Waves season. RUNNING POINT has been renewed for season 3!"

The comments section was immediately flooded with excitement. "FINALLLYYY I CAN BREATHEEEE," wrote one relieved viewer, while another declared it the "BEST NEWS." The enthusiasm was palpable, with comments like "Let’s gooooo" and "Yes !!! My show" filling the feed. However, amidst the celebration, fans also made their requests clear for the upcoming season.

"PLEASE MAKE THE EPISODES LONGER I BEG," pleaded one user, a sentiment echoed by another who joked, "Make sure it has 35 episodes." One fan even pitched a new idea, writing, "Heck bring in the wnba as well," suggesting a crossover with the real-life women's league.

A winning formula

The series, created by Mindy Kaling, Ike Barinholtz, and David Stassen, stars Kate Hudson as Isla Gordon, a woman who unexpectedly takes over her family's professional basketball team after a scandal. For those unversed, the workplace comedy has been praised for its sharp humour and has built a strong following.

The renewal was formally announced at Netflix's Upfronts presentation, where the streaming giant showcases its upcoming slate to advertisers. The show, which also stars Drew Tarver, Scott MacArthur, and Brenda Song, has reportedly surpassed 60 million views across its first two seasons, cementing its place as a fan favourite on the platform.

The show's premise, which explores a woman navigating the male-dominated world of professional sports, is loosely inspired by the real-life story of Jeanie Buss, the controlling owner of the Los Angeles Lakers.

Buss, who serves as an executive producer on the series, became the first female owner of a championship-winning NBA team in 2020, adding a layer of authenticity to the fictional LA Waves' story. The show’s theme taps into a significant real-world trend of growing female leadership in major sports leagues.

This real-world parallel, combined with the recent surge in viewership for women's sports, gives 'Running Point' a timely and relevant edge that resonates with modern audiences.

With season two reportedly ending on a major cliffhanger and introducing a new crosstown rivalry, viewers are clearly desperate to see what is next for Isla and her team.