**Netflix’s ‘Running Point’ Season 2 Welcomes New Faces and Fresh Challenges**
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Netflix has recently brought back its hit sports comedy series, *Running Point*, for a highly anticipated second season. Premiering on April 23, the show continues to follow the ambitious Isla Gordon, played by Kate Hudson, as she navigates her responsibilities as president of the fictional Los Angeles Waves basketball team. Following a dramatic playoff defeat at the end of its inaugural season, Isla’s aspirations for a championship title have heightened, and she is determined to lead her team to victory.
The storyline thickens as Isla faces the complexities of team management, family dynamics, and her own love life. Supporting her in this quest are a number of returning familiar faces, including her fiancé Lev Levenson, portrayed by Max Greenfield, and her best friend Ali Lee, played by Brenda Song. Isla’s brothers—Sandy (Drew Tarver), Ness (Scott MacArthur), and Jackie (Fabrizio Guido)—also remain integral to the season, as do key players like Marcus Winfield (Toby Sandeman) and Travis Bugg (Chet Hanks).
Season 2 brings an exciting roster of new cast members, adding depth and intrigue to the narrative. Ray Romano joins the ensemble as Norm Stinson, the socially awkward yet knowledgeable head coach brought in to lead the Waves following the departure of the previous head coach, Jay Brown. Isla’s unconventional decision to hire Norm, rather than a more glamorous candidate, faces scepticism from her family. However, she believes strongly in Norm’s ability to guide the team toward championship success.
Romano’s addition to the cast is notable, particularly following a recasting that saw him step into the role after Robert Townsend was initially assigned. The Emmy-winning actor previously collaborated with Netflix on *No Good Deed*, marking this as another return to the platform. Hudson has praised Romano’s contributions and the chemistry he brings to the series.
Joining Romano in the cast is Ken Marino, who plays Al Fleischman, fondly dubbed the “toilet king of Orange County.” His character is depicted as someone who persistently seeks better seats at games while attempting to manipulate Isla into giving him the best spot in the arena. Marino’s experience in comedic roles, including previous work on Netflix’s *The Residence*, positions him well to contribute to the show’s humour.
Additionally, Blake Anderson of *Workaholics* fame portrays Leroy, a companion to Cam Gordon who isn’t quite sober as they concoct plans to reclaim power within the Waves’ management. Anderson’s brand of humour adds a further layer to the show’s comedic elements.
The new season also introduces Aliyah Turner as Zoé Debay, a former child star whose burgeoning fame causes new tensions within the team. Her character becomes entangled in the personal lives of the players, introducing complicated relationships that could impact team dynamics on and off the court.
Tommy Dewey appears as Magnus, the general manager of the Toronto Trappers, whose talent acquisition skills pose a threat to the Waves as he seeks to recruit top players. Dewey, who has collaborated with creator Mindy Kaling before, brings additional drama as Magnus disrupts the Waves with his ambitious tactics.
Moreover, Richa Moorjani joins the cast as Aruna, the Waves’ resourceful financial accountant. As the team encounters financial pitfalls, Aruna’s expertise will play a crucial role in steering them through economic challenges. Moorjani, known for her work in *Never Have I Ever*, takes a significant leap into the sports comedy genre.
The lineup of new characters continues to impress with Jake Picking cast as Tommy White, a star point guard who nets his place in the Waves through a trade. However, interpersonal complications arise as Tommy sets his sights on Sandy, creating further narrative tension.
Ike Barinholtz, one of the creators of the series, also makes a guest appearance as Benny Gordon, Isla’s cousin, thereby enriching the already intricate familial relationships portrayed in the show. Barinholtz’s love for basketball as a child adds an authentic touch to his comedic performance.
The season also features celebrity cameos, including Octavia Spencer as Diane Robicheaux, a civil rights lawyer representing the Waves’ dancers during a strike, and Nicole Richie as Nicole Vark, who becomes a potential sponsor when Isla reaches out for support.
As *Running Point* delves deeper into the trials of the Waves and their ambitions for greatness, audiences can expect a blend of drama, humour, and heartfelt moments. With both familiar and new faces on board, season 2 is poised to deliver even more excitement and unexpected plot twists, making it a must-watch for sports comedy enthusiasts.