Ballers

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  • TV-MA
  • 2015
  • 5 Seasons
  • 7.8  (77,250)

Ballers is an American comedy-drama television series created by Stephen Levinson and produced by HBO, starring Dwayne Johnson as Spencer Strasmore, a former NFL player turned financial manager. The series aired from 2015 until 2019, spanning five seasons, and followed Strasmore's journey as he built relationships with his clients, navigated the high-stakes world of NFL football, and dealt with personal and professional challenges along the way.

The show begins with Strasmore struggling to find his footing after retiring from the NFL due to a career-ending injury. He decides to pivot into the world of financial management, with the hope of helping other NFL players avoid financial pitfalls and secure their futures. Strasmore's goal is to become the top financial manager in the NFL, but he quickly realizes how difficult that is in a world where every player seems to be out for themselves.

Throughout the series, Strasmore is faced with a variety of challenges that test his abilities as a financial manager and his patience as a human being. He must deal with difficult clients, shady businessmen, and personal demons that threaten to derail his career. Along the way, he forms important relationships with people like Joe Krutel (Rob Corddry), his business partner and friend, and Jason Antolotti (Troy Garity), a sports agent who often clashes with Strasmore but ultimately respects his abilities.

The show's storylines are heavily influenced by real-life events in the world of professional sports, particularly the NFL. For example, one plotline involves a fictional team in Las Vegas trying to secure funding for a new stadium, while dealing with legal challenges and angry fans. Another plotline involves the league cracking down on players who kneel during the national anthem, sparking controversy and debate among players, fans, and the media.

The show's cast is diverse and talented, with standout performances from Johnson and Corddry. Johnson is particularly impressive in his ability to balance the tough-guy persona that made him a star with the vulnerability of a man trying to find his place in the world after his career has ended. Corddry, on the other hand, brings his trademark wit and sarcasm to his role as Joe, serving as a perfect foil for Johnson's more serious character.

Beyond the main cast, the show features a rotating cast of guest stars, including NFL players, sports commentators, and other celebrities. Some of the notable guest stars over the course of the series include Charles Barkley, Serena Williams, and Mark Cuban, among others.

One of the most impressive aspects of Ballers is its production value. The show is shot on location in various cities across the United States, giving it an authentic feel that is often lacking in studio-based sitcoms. The show's set pieces, particularly the various football stadiums and high-end hotels that serve as backdrops, are impeccably designed and a joy to watch. The show's soundtrack is also a highlight, featuring a mix of classic and contemporary hip-hop that perfectly captures the vibe of the NFL world.

Overall, Ballers is an entertaining and often thought-provoking portrayal of the NFL world and the people who inhabit it. While the show's focus on financial management and high-stakes negotiations might not be for everyone, it offers a behind-the-scenes look at a world that is often shrouded in secrecy and fueled by egos. Fans of Johnson and Corddry will no doubt enjoy seeing these two stars light up the screen in their respective roles, while those looking for a smart and insightful comedy-drama will find a lot to love in this series.

Ballers is a series that ran for 5 seasons (49 episodes) between June 21, 2015 and on HBO

Ballers
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Seasons
Players Only
8. Players Only
October 13, 2019
Despite having a bullseye on his back, Spencer refuses to back down in his fight for the league's players. Joe embraces a new state of mind as he finds peace with himself. Julie encourages Charles to take care of unfinished business. Ricky decides to strike out on his own with his latest project. Reggie takes the next step in his career, with some encouragement from Vernon.
Who Wants a Lollipop
7. Who Wants a Lollipop
October 6, 2019
When Spencer returns to the Sports X offices to work out a major player deal, he and Joe air past grievances and later, Spencer makes a big public statement that's sure to have consequences. Charles mulls over a new deal from Werner after getting a wakeup call about his health. Ricky gets defensive in a meeting with a Hollywood bigwig who has ambitious plans for his future. Vernon, Reggie and Lance arrive at their first Esports tournament as underdogs.
Edutainment
6. Edutainment
September 29, 2019
In the wake of an unexpected tragedy, Spencer prepares for his first owners meeting. While trying to balance work and his relationship with Kate, Joe decides to go on Ricky's radio show. Charles deals with an unexpected health crisis in the middle of his busiest time at work. Vernon, Reggie and Lance try to recruit a trio of gaming siblings for their new league. Jason celebrates his anniversary.
Crumbs
5. Crumbs
September 22, 2019
The stakes for Spencer Strasmore have never been higher as the fifth season finds him settling into retirement. But when an offer that's too good to refuse comes his way, Spencer goes back into the lion's den, this time as a team owner.
Municipal
4. Municipal
September 15, 2019
The stakes for Spencer Strasmore have never been higher as he finds him settling into retirement. But when an offer that's too good to refuse comes his way, Spencer goes back into the lion's den, this time as a team owner.
Copernicursed
3. Copernicursed
September 8, 2019
The stakes for Spencer Strasmore have never been higher as he settles into retirement. But when an offer that's too good to refuse comes his way, Spencer goes back into the lion's den, this time as a team owner.
Must Be the Shoes
2. Must Be the Shoes
September 1, 2019
'Must Be the Shoes.' (Season Five) Spencer goes to the Anderson brothers for financial help; Joe is tasked with an apology at Sports X.
Protocol Is for Losers
1. Protocol Is for Losers
August 25, 2019
While peacefully enjoying retirement and reflecting on his past, Spencer gets a tantalizing offer to become the first black majority team owner in professional football history. A year after splitting with Spencer, Joe eyes a big swing at Sports X with his new partner, Lance. Ricky finds himself in hot water with Charles, and Vernon considers a life outside of football, much to Reggie's chagrin.
Description
Where to Watch Ballers
Ballers is available for streaming on the HBO website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Ballers on demand at Max, Amazon Prime, Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, HBO NOW, Vudu, Microsoft Movies & TV, Google Play and Apple TV.
  • Premiere Date
    June 21, 2015
  • IMDB Rating
    7.8  (77,250)