Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty

In 1979, businessman Jerry Buss stakes his fortune on the purchase of the NBA's lackluster Los Angeles Lakers; the team's coach, Jerry West, bristles at the prospect of drafting college phenom Earvin Johnson, who has been given the moniker "Magic."

After giving Coach West carte blanche with the Lakers roster, Buss attempts to charm Red Auerbach; Earvin's efforts to impress the women in his life fall flat; Claire's mandate to get creative brings conflict with Buss' daughter, Jeanie.

Leaving the Lakers to deal with the fallout of Coach West’s shocking announcement, Buss travels to Las Vegas, and soon becomes entangled with a dangerous foe. Back in LA, Earvin finds himself alone in a new city, while former Laker Pat Riley seeks out a new place within the team.

While training in Palm Springs, the introduction of a new playing style threatens to further divide already fractured Lakers Franchise.

As the Lakers prepare for their season opener against the Clippers, an increasingly frustrated Kareem begins to doubt his place on the team – allowing Coach McKinney to stoke his growing rivalry with Earvin. Jeanie courts star talent for newly minted cheer squad, the Laker Girls, including a promising young dancer, Paula Abdul.

Assistant coach Paul Westhead adds to the Lakers’ growing list of problems when he finds himself dealing with a tragedy of Shakespearean proportions. Increasingly courted by corporate sponsors, Earwin consults a newfound financial advisor.