Kawhi Leonard leads a group full of drama, mystery, and redemption.

The NBA has never lacked compelling storylines, but with the league entering a new era of social media narratives, off-court controversies, and superstar transformations, it’s no wonder that streaming platforms like Netflix are diving in with sports docuseries such as Starting 5. As the anticipation builds for Season 3, fans are already speculating on which players might make the cut.

With real-life drama that’s as gripping as anything Hollywood could script, these five NBA stars—led by the enigmatic Kawhi Leonard—would create must-watch television. Here’s why they’re perfect for Netflix’s Starting 5.

Kawhi Leonard: The Silent Star Under Fire

Few athletes today carry more mystery and quiet intensity than Kawhi Leonard. A two-time NBA Finals MVP, Leonard has built his career on elite defense, clutch performances, and total silence in front of the media. But now, the silence has been broken—not by his words, but by scandal.

Reports allege that Kawhi Leonard received $28 million from the bankrupt company Aspiration for a so-called “no-show” endorsement job. The deal is allegedly connected to the Los Angeles Clippers’ ownership, leading the NBA to launch a formal investigation. Clippers owner Steve Ballmer has denied any wrongdoing, saying he welcomes the league’s review. However, the spotlight is now unavoidable.

For Netflix, this is gold. Kawhi Leonard has always shied away from attention, but his current situation puts him front and center. It’s a rare chance to explore the psyche of a superstar who never sought fame but now finds himself in the middle of a potential league-altering scandal. From his cryptic persona to the possible consequences of the investigation, Leonard’s story would deliver tension, depth, and a rare look inside the life of the NBA’s most elusive superstar.

Ja Morant: The Road to Redemption

While Kawhi Leonard brings controversy and silence, Ja Morant brings redemption and conflict. The Memphis Grizzlies guard has had a turbulent two seasons marred by off-court incidents and multiple suspensions. Despite playing just 50 games last year, Morant still averaged 23.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 7.3 assists, proving his talent remains undeniable.

For Netflix, Ja Morant represents the classic comeback story. A gifted athlete navigating fame, pressure, and poor decision-making is the kind of arc that documentary audiences crave. Can he reclaim the trust of fans, teammates, and the league? Can he lead the Grizzlies to contention while also growing as a man?

By following Morant through his offseason training, mental health work, and return to action, viewers would get a real-time look at the price of fame and the journey back to accountability. It’s a human story, filled with conflict and the hope of transformation.

Zion Williamson: Transformation or Tease?

If you had to pick one player who embodies both potential and unpredictability, it would be Zion Williamson. The former No. 1 overall pick of the New Orleans Pelicans showed flashes of brilliance last season, averaging 24.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 5.3 assists over just 30 games. But as always, his health and conditioning remain the central storyline.

When Zion arrived at Pelicans Media Day, reporters were stunned by his noticeably leaner frame. “I feel like I’m in the best place I’ve been since Duke,” he said. That comment sparked excitement—and immediate skepticism. Former player Jeff Teague didn’t hold back, mocking the timing of the statement, saying, “You could’ve been like this for three years if you took your weight serious.”

This sets up a fascinating narrative for Netflix’s Starting 5: is Zion finally about to deliver on the promise he showed at Duke, or will his struggles continue? The cameras could follow him through his workouts, meal plans, and in-game moments as he tries to rewrite his career story. It’s a journey of transformation, self-discipline, and immense pressure.

Nikola Jokić: The Anti-Star Superstar

To round out the cast with a global touch, few names carry as much respect—and contrast—as Nikola Jokić. The Denver Nuggets big man is unlike any other superstar in the league. Despite averaging 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists, Jokić remains detached from the spotlight.

The Serbian center has already won two NBA MVPs, a Finals MVP, and led his team to a championship. Yet, when he’s not on the court, he’s more interested in horse racing and spending quiet time with his family than attending fashion events or marketing campaigns.

That makes Nikola Jokić a unique addition to Starting 5. He represents the opposite of the modern NBA celebrity, and that dichotomy is exactly why he’d be perfect for the series. Watching how he juggles being the best player in the world while living like a small-town athlete would give fans a different kind of drama—one rooted in culture, values, and personal philosophy.

LaMelo Ball: Born for the Spotlight

If you’re creating a documentary, you need at least one player who loves the camera—and no one fits that mold better than LaMelo Ball. Long before he became the face of the Charlotte Hornets, LaMelo was a reality TV veteran thanks to Ball in the Family, which chronicled his chaotic and often hilarious upbringing under the watchful eye of LaVar Ball.

On the court, LaMelo was sensational before his injury last season, posting 25.2 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 7.4 assists per game. Off the court, his fashion sense, social media presence, and outgoing personality make him a content creator’s dream.

Throw in the possibility of LaVar Ball making a few dramatic appearances, and you’ve got a surefire hit. Whether he’s leading the Hornets, recovering from injury, or planning his next sneaker drop, LaMelo Ball brings energy, flair, and unpredictability to every frame.

Why This Group Works for Netflix’s Starting 5

Each of these five players adds a distinct layer to the story. Together, they form a narrative web that reflects the modern NBA experience in all its complexity.

• Kawhi Leonard offers mystery, scandal, and a rare peek behind the curtain of silence.

• Ja Morant gives the redemption arc that viewers love.

• Zion Williamson brings transformation, both physical and emotional.

• Nikola Jokić provides an international contrast and a reminder that greatness can be quiet.

• LaMelo Ball ensures that the show has the flair, soundbites, and social media moments it needs to go viral.

These stories are not just about basketball—they’re about image, pressure, family, accountability, and identity. And in Netflix’s Starting 5, they would come alive like never before.

If Season 3 of Starting 5 is looking for characters who embody every side of the NBA—from fame and fallout to redemption and real life—then this group, led by Kawhi Leonard, is perfect. It’s a reminder that sometimes the biggest games aren’t played on hardwood, but in press conferences, locker rooms, and living rooms.

And who knows? Maybe we’ll even hear Kawhi Leonard’s iconic laugh one more time—this time, captured by a Netflix microphone.