HBO Orders ‘Showtime’ Pilot About ’80s LA Lakers From Adam McKay

HBO has given a pilot order to the drama “Showtime” from director Adam McKay.

Based on Jeff Pearlman’s non-fiction book of the same name, the project will chronicle the professional and personal lives of the 1980s Los Angeles Lakers, one of sports’ most revered and dominant dynasties — a team that defined its era, both on and off the court.

The Lakers roster of that era included notable players including Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson and James Worthy — all under the direction of head coach Pat Riley.

McKay will direct and executive produce the project alongside Kevin Messick for his yet-to-be-named production company, which formed following McKay’s recent split from longtime producing partner Will Ferrell.

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“Jeff Pearlman’s book and Max Borenstein’s script of the story of the Showtime Lakers really knocked me over,” McKay said in a statement. “Sexism, racism, tragedy, redemption, no-look passes and a giant cultural shift in America… I can’t wait to start filming.”

“Godzilla” and “Kong: Skull Island” writer Max Borenstein will write and executive produce, with production set to begin this summer. Casting on the hour-long drama is currently underway.

Jim Hecht, who has a co-story by credit on the project, also serves as executive producer on the project alongside Jason Shuman.

McKay is represented by WME and Ziffren Brittenham LLP. Borenstein is represented by UTA, Anonymous Content and attorney Eric Feig. Hecht is represented by WME, Gotham Group and Del Shaw.

Read original story HBO Orders ‘Showtime’ Pilot About ’80s LA Lakers From Adam McKay At TheWrap