Netflix Faces Trademark Battle Over 'Running Point' Basketball Team Branding

Pepperdine University claims the show's fictional team infringes on its trademarks, but a judge denied a request to block its release.

Pepperdine University filed a lawsuit against Netflix and Warner Bros., alleging that the branding of the fictional Los Angeles Waves basketball team in 'Running Point' closely resembles its own Waves athletics program.
The university argues that the use of its blue and orange colors, mascot, and the number '37'—linked to its founding year—could confuse viewers and harm its reputation.
Pepperdine also expressed concerns about the show's explicit content, including substance use and profanity, which it claims contradict its Christian values and tarnish its image.
Netflix defended its creative choices, stating the team name and branding were inspired by the Los Angeles Lakers and are not explicitly misleading or tied to Pepperdine.
A federal judge denied Pepperdine's request for a temporary restraining order, allowing the show's release to proceed while the broader legal case continues.