Ahead of its upcoming season on Aug 6th, Max has released the trailer for “Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty” season 2.
The new season will focus on the period following the 1980 NBA Finals through 1984, exploring the Lakers’ rise to dominance. A captivating showdown between Magic Johnson, portrayed by Quincy Isaiah, and the Boston Celtics’ Larry Bird, played by Sean Patrick Small, promises to be a highlight of the upcoming episodes.
The newly released trailer sets the stage for the intense rivalry and determination of the Lakers to achieve more than one championship title. Magic Johnson’s confident declaration, “You bet” the Lakers can win another title, and his advice for opponents to “Better watch out,” fuel excitement for what’s to come.
Coach Pat Riley, portrayed by Adrien Brody, imparts a reality check to young Magic, reminding him that winning one championship is not enough. He warns of opponents devising new strategies to break them down.
TRAILER:
The show’s commitment to historical accuracy shines through its attention to period-specific detail, transporting viewers back to the 1980s Showtime era at the Fabulous Forum. From the confident Jerry Buss, portrayed by John C. Reilly, to the cigar-chomping Red Auerbach, played by Michael Chiklis, and the ill-fated Lakers coach Paul Westhead, portrayed by Jason Segel, the visual portrayal brings the era to life.
The star-studded cast also includes Jason Clarke, Gaby Hoffmann, Jason Segel, Hadley Robinson, DeVaughn Nixon, Solomon Hughes, Tamera Tomakili, Brett Cullen, Stephen Adly Guirgis, Spencer Garrett, Molly Gordon, Joey Brooks, Delante Desouza, Jimel Atkins, Austin Aaron, McCabe Slye, Thomas Mann, Gillian Jacobs, with Michael Chiklis and Rob Morgan.
The show, which delves into the professional and personal lives of the iconic Los Angeles Lakers basketball teams from the 1980s, has garnered a dedicated following since its premiere in Spring 2022. It’s also important to note that executive Producers Salli Richardson-Whitfield and Rodney Barnes are back as well. Richardson-Whitfield will be directing three episodes, while Barnes, who co-wrote nine out of ten episodes in the first season, is set to pen the second season.
Also behind the scenes are Adam McKay and Kevin Messick as Executive Producers, Max Borenstein as the Showrunner/Executive Producer/Writer/Co-Creator, and Jim Hecht.
Don’t miss the electrifying clash between basketball legends and the Lakers’ pursuit of glory when “Winning Time” Season 2 premieres on HBO Max on August 6.