Netflix has decided to cancel its NBA-focused docuseries Starting 5 following two seasons, citing disappointing audience numbers. According to reports from the Sports Business Journal and other outlets, the series was unable to reach the level of viewership needed to continue on the streaming platform.
Starting 5 premiered in late 2024 with high expectations. Despite the presence of some of the NBA’s biggest names, including LeBron James, Domantas Sabonis, Jimmy Butler, Anthony Edwards, and Jayson Tatum in the first season, the show struggled to find a large and consistent audience. Comparisons to Netflix’s NFL series Quarterback highlighted the gap in traction, with Starting 5 failing to replicate the same level of interest.
The series was produced by a notable team, including Omaha Productions, LeBron James’ SpringHill Company, and Barack and Michelle Obama’s Higher Ground Productions. The involvement of these high-profile producers brought attention and credibility to the project, yet it was not enough to sustain long-term viewership.
Season two of Starting 5 featured a new roster of NBA stars, including Jaylen Brown, Kevin Durant, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Tyrese Haliburton, and James Harden. While the series continued to highlight the personal and professional lives of top basketball talent, audience numbers remained lower than Netflix had anticipated, ultimately leading to the decision to end the show.
Starting 5 will be remembered for giving fans an inside look at some of the league’s most prominent players, but in the highly competitive world of streaming sports content, even star power could not guarantee long-term success.
