HBO is bringing the NBA to primetime in a new way. The premium network is currently working with Adam McKay to develop a scripted series reportedly called Showtime that will tell the story of the 1980s Los Angeles Lakers. While the show is still in its early stages, the network has revealed the cast of the upcoming series.
Jason Clarke of Pet Sematary and Lawless will play the role of former Lakers General Manager Jerry West. Joining Clarke in management, John C. Reilly of Step Brothers and Talladega Nights will star as former Lakers Owner Jerry Buss. Meanwhile, the on-court veterans will be played by Hollywood newcomers. Recent drama school graduate Quincy Isaiah will portray the great Earvin “Magic” Johnson. Alongside Isaiah, former professional basketball player Solomon Hughes will play the role of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. DeVaughn Nixon will play the role of his father, Norm Nixon. Other key additions to the cast include Molly Gordon as Linda Zafrani, Rob Morgan as Earvin Johnson Sr., Adrien Brody as Pat Riley, Delante Desouza as Michael Cooper and Kirk Bovill as Donald Sterling.
The developing series is inspired by Showtime: Magic, Kareem, Riley and the Los Angeles Lakers Dynasty of the 1980s written by Jeff Pearlman. Adam McKay will direct, executive produce and co-write the series with Jim Hecht. Kevin Messick, Max Borenstein, Scott Stephens and Jason Shuman will also executive produce the show.
