Sports Shows That Aren't Really About Sports At All

April 20, 2022

Voting Rules

Vote up the best “sports shows” that focus far more on things that are not, in fact, a sport.

Sports can naturally provide some of the biggest drama of anything on TV, and the best sports shows on TV tend to simply focus on actual sports. But not everyone can get invested into a (or any) sport. Fortunately, plenty of shows that showcase fictional versions of some great sports stories, while also being about sports so lightly that people who don't care for the real thing can find themselves heavily invested in the outcome of a football game or boxing match that never actually happened.

These are the best sports shows that might as well not even be about sports at all, so vote up the TV shows that are ostensibly “about” sports but are really about just about people.

1
The League
October 29, 2009
5 votes
- Actors: Mark Duplass, Steve Rannazzisi, Nick Kroll, Paul Scheer, Jon Lajoie
An ingenious concoction of comedy and camaraderie, The League follows a group of friends who share an unyielding passion for fantasy football. The show's dynamic ensemble cast, including Kevin (Stephen Rannazzisi), Ruxin (Nick Kroll), and Taco (Jon Lajoie), effortlessly delivers a humorous take on the highs and lows of friendship and competition. With its witty banter and relatable storylines, The League has garnered a dedicated fan base over its seven-season run. The show's undeniable charm and clever writing make it a must-watch for both sports enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.
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2
Ted Lasso
August 14, 2020
9 votes
- Actors: Jason Sudeikis, Hannah Waddingham, Juno Temple, Jeremy Swift, Phil Dunster
Delving into the world of sports and personal growth, this award-winning comedy series brings viewers an uplifting and heartfelt journey. Ted Lasso, a small-time American football coach portrayed by Jason Sudeikis, finds himself navigating the complexities of English Premier League soccer after an unexpected career move. As he builds relationships with the team's players, including the fiercely competitive Roy Kent (Brett Goldstein) and ambitious Keeley Jones (Juno Temple), the show masterfully weaves together elements of humor, emotional depth, and character development. Garnering multiple accolades such as Emmys and Golden Globe awards, this series has quickly become a beloved staple in modern television.
3
Ballers
June 21, 2015
6 votes
- Actors: Dwayne Johnson, John David Washington, Omar Miller, Rob Corddry, Donovan W. Carter
Set against the glamorous backdrop of Miami, Ballers explores the lives of professional football players both on and off the field. The show delves into the complexities of fame, fortune, and personal relationships, with Dwayne Johnson delivering a standout performance as Spencer Strasmore, a retired athlete turned financial manager. Throughout its five-season run, Ballers garnered a dedicated fan base and received critical acclaim for its realistic portrayal of the sports industry. With a strong ensemble cast, including Rob Corddry as Joe Krutel, John David Washington as Ricky Jerret, and Omar Benson Miller as Charles Greane, the series skillfully balances drama and comedy while providing an insightful look into the world of high-stakes athletics.
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4
Friday Night Lights
October 3, 2006
5 votes
- Actors: Kyle Chandler, Connie Britton, Aimee Teegarden, Brad Leland, Taylor Kitsch
Delving into the lives of a small-town Texas community, Friday Night Lights weaves an intricate tapestry of both on-field and off-field drama. Centered around the Dillon Panthers high school football team, the show masterfully balances the intense world of competitive sports with the personal journeys of its ensemble cast. Coach Eric Taylor (Kyle Chandler) leads the team with unwavering determination, while his wife Tami (Connie Britton) provides steadfast support as the school's guidance counselor. With multiple Emmy nominations to its name, Friday Night Lights offers an authentic glimpse into the heart and soul of America's beloved pastime, capturing the passion, heartache, and triumphs that come with chasing dreams under the bright stadium lights.
5
Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty
March 6, 2022
5 votes
- Actors: John C. Reilly, Quincy Isaiah, Jason Clarke, Gaby Hoffmann, Hadley Robinson
Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty delves into the compelling world of professional basketball during the 1980s, tracing the meteoric ascent of one of the sport's most iconic teams. This drama series offers a richly textured portrayal of the era, featuring standout performances by John C. Reilly as team owner Jerry Buss and Quincy Isaiah as the legendary Magic Johnson. Nominated for multiple awards, the show masterfully captures the essence of the decade, from its vibrant fashion and music to the fierce on-court rivalries. Winning Time provides an enthralling behind-the-scenes look at the challenges, triumphs, and unforgettable moments that defined the Lakers' legacy.
6
Sports Night
September 22, 1998
5 votes
- Actors: Josh Charles, Peter Krause, Felicity Huffman, Robert Guillaume, Joshua Malina
In the realm of sports journalism, Sports Night stands out as a refreshing take on the daily grind of a sports newsroom. The series, which garnered eight Emmy nominations during its two-season run, masterfully intertwines the professional and personal lives of its characters, providing viewers with an authentic portrayal of their struggles and triumphs. At the heart of the show is the dynamic duo of anchor Casey McCall (Peter Krause) and executive producer Dan Rydell (Josh Charles), whose camaraderie and wit drive the narrative forward. From the pressures of live broadcasts to the complexities of office politics, Sports Night delves into the intricate workings of a television sports program while maintaining a perfect balance of drama and humor.
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The League

Ted Lasso

Ballers

Friday Night Lights

Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty

Sports Night