Running Point Renewed for Season 3: Netflix Bets on Critical Acclaim for Basketball Comedy

The court is still open! Netflix has officially announced that Running Point, the sharp-witted basketball comedy, will return for a third season. The news, broken on May 13, 2026, comes as a victory for the series and its dedicated fanbase, proving that quality storytelling often outweighs initial viewership numbers in the streaming era.

A Winning Streak: The Rise of the LA Waves

For those who missed the first two chapters, Running Point follows the chaotic and comedic journey of Isla Gordon (played by the charismatic Kate Hudson). After her brother Cam (Justin Theroux) enters rehab, Isla—the overlooked youngest sibling—unexpectedly inherits the leadership of the LA Waves, her family’s professional basketball empire.

The series has successfully blended corporate power struggles with the high-energy world of professional sports, all under the creative guidance of producer Mindy Kaling and creators Elaine Ko, Ike Barinholtz, and David Stassen.

Quality Over Quantity: Analyzing the Renewal

The decision to renew Running Point is particularly interesting when looking at the data. While Season 2 (which premiered on April 23, 2026) saw a decline in opening weekend viewership—dropping from 9.3 million in Season 1 to 5.3 million—the critical reception told a completely different story.

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• Season 1 Rotten Tomatoes Score: 79%
• Season 2 Rotten Tomatoes Score: 90%

This jump in critical approval suggests that the show found its rhythm in its second outing, refining its character arcs and deepening the ensemble chemistry. By prioritizing the Rotten Tomatoes trajectory and long-term brand prestige over raw first-week clicks, Netflix is signaling a shift toward valuing “prestige comedy” and sustained engagement.

What to Expect in Season 3

While an official release date hasn’t been set, industry trends suggest we will see the LA Waves back on our screens in 2027 or 2028. With the core cast returning—including Kate Hudson, Justin Theroux, Brenda Song, Drew Tarver, and Scott MacArthur—fans can anticipate several key narrative threads:

1. Isla’s Evolution: Moving from a reluctant leader to a powerhouse executive.
2. Family Friction: The inevitable complications that arise when the Gordon siblings clash over the family legacy.
3. Higher Stakes: More intense basketball-adjacent drama and corporate power plays within the league.

The “Mindy Kaling” Effect

The renewal is a significant win for Mindy Kaling’s production vision. By resisting the urge to cancel shows after a sophomore slump, Netflix is allowing Running Point to build a richer, more layered world. The show’s ability to maintain a spot in the Netflix Global Top 10 well beyond its premiere week proves that its core audience is loyal and growing.

Stay tuned for more updates on Running Point Season 3 as production begins in the sunny landscapes of Los Angeles!