Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty (2022)
HBO's bold, stylized drama reliving the rise of the legendary 1980s Los Angeles Lakers and the larger-than-life personalities who built a dynasty.
Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty - Series Information
- Original Title: Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty
- First Air Year: 2022
- Last Air Year: 2023
- Created by: Jim Hecht, Max Borenstein
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama, Comedy
- Content Rating (US): TV-MA
- Number of Seasons: 2
- Number of Episodes: 17
- Status: Canceled
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English, Spanish
- First Air Date: March 6, 2022 (United States - TV-MA), March 6, 2022 (Germany - 18), March 6, 2022 (France - 18), March 6, 2022 (Brazil - 16), March 6, 2022 (Mexico - D), March 6, 2022 (Spain - 18)
- Networks: HBO
- Production Companies: Hyperobject Industries, Jim Hecht Productions, Jason Shuman Productions, Steeplechase Amusements
- Production Countries: United States of America
- Alternative Titles: הלייקרס – קבוצה מנצחת (IL), Неназваний серіал про «Лейкерс» (UA), Winning Time: The Forum (US)
Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty - Plot
A fast-break series chronicling the professional and personal lives of the 1980s Los Angeles Lakers, one of sports' most revered and dominant dynasties — a team that defined an era, both on and off the court.
Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see the dynasty take shape:
Everybody wants a piece.
Where to Watch Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty
Looking for where to watch Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Jim Hecht
- Max Borenstein
Main Cast
- John C. Reilly
- Quincy Isaiah
- Jason Clarke
- Adrien Brody
- Gaby Hoffmann
- Jason Segel
- Tracy Letts
- Hadley Robinson
- DeVaughn Nixon
- Solomon Hughes
Writers
- Jeff Pearlman
- Max Borenstein
- Rodney Barnes
- Jim Hecht
- Rebecca Bertuch
Executive Producers
- Adam McKay
- Jim Hecht
- Kevin J. Messick
- Max Borenstein
- Jason Shuman
Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty - FAQs
Is Winning Time based on a true story?
Largely, yes. The series is adapted from Jeff Pearlman's book 'Showtime: Magic, Kareem, Riley, and the Los Angeles Lakers Dynasty of the 1980s.' While the core events are rooted in real history, some scenes and dialogue are dramatized or fictionalized for narrative effect.
Where can you stream Winning Time?
Winning Time is available to stream on Max (formerly HBO Max), including through the HBO Max Amazon Channel. If you prefer to own it, the series can be purchased on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, and Fandango At Home.
Why was Winning Time cancelled after two seasons?
HBO cancelled Winning Time in October 2023 after two seasons, citing creative and strategic reasons. Despite critical praise and a passionate fanbase, the network decided not to continue the series, leaving some storylines — including the Lakers' later championship runs — unfinished.
Who plays Magic Johnson in Winning Time?
Quincy Isaiah portrays Earvin 'Magic' Johnson in the series. His performance earned widespread praise for capturing both the infectious charisma and competitive drive that made Johnson one of basketball's all-time greats.
Did real Lakers players approve of Winning Time?
Reactions from the real-life figures were mixed. Jerry West publicly criticized his portrayal and threatened legal action, while Magic Johnson expressed reservations about certain depictions. Others, including some former Lakers, were more receptive to the dramatized retelling of their era.
How many episodes does Winning Time have in total?
Winning Time ran for 17 episodes across two seasons — Season 1 contains 10 episodes and Season 2 contains 7 episodes. There are also 6 bonus special episodes available. The series premiered on HBO on March 6, 2022.
Is Winning Time worth watching for non-basketball fans?
Absolutely. While basketball is the backdrop, the show is really about ambition, ego, money, and the messy human dynamics behind a dynasty. Its bold visual style, sharp writing, and outstanding ensemble cast make it compelling viewing even for those with zero interest in the NBA.
What is the content rating for Winning Time?
Winning Time carries a TV-MA rating, meaning it is intended for mature audiences only. The series features strong language, sexual content, and adult themes throughout, reflecting the unfiltered world of 1980s professional basketball and entertainment culture.
More About Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty
Explore further details about the series on these authoritative resources.