Ray Romano Channels NBA Legend Gregg Popovich For Running Point Role

Ray Romano is stepping into the world of professional basketball for the second season of Netflix’s "Running Point," and he didn’t have to look far for inspiration. The veteran actor revealed that his portrayal of a seasoned basketball veteran is heavily modeled after legendary San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich. Romano noted that the decision to channel the five-time NBA champion came partly out of necessity, as he had very little time to prepare for the role before filming began.

The transition from sitcom legend to a hard-nosed sports figure marks a creative shift for Romano. By leaning on Popovich’s well-known persona—characterized by a no-nonsense attitude and a dry, often biting wit—Romano looks to bring an authentic sense of authority to the fictional league. He admitted that studying the coach’s mannerisms and famous sideline interviews provided the necessary "short-hand" to build a believable character on a tight production schedule.

As the series moves into its next chapter, fans will be watching to see how Romano balances his signature comedic timing with the gruff, disciplined energy associated with one of basketball's most iconic leaders. The casting choice suggests the series is aiming for a blend of workplace comedy and genuine sports drama. Whether Romano can fully capture the "Pop" essence while keeping the character his own will be a central draw for the new season.

This story was originally reported by People.