The essential episodes of Ballers
Watch these 15 in order and you've got Ballers — each pick states its reason.
- 01
After the unexpected demise of a friend and former teammate, retired football superstar Spencer ramps up his efforts to build a post-football career in Miami, and feels pressure from Joe, his boss at a financial firm, to "monetize his friendships." Meanwhile, recently retired player Charles, copes with the realities of finding a new job. Talented wide receiver Ricky is forced to put his pride aside to find a new home. Vernon, a player on the rise, finds himself in a tight spot and reaches out to Spencer for help.
- 02
Spencer scrambles to stay ahead after Andre makes a surprise visit to the office. Joe discovers the skeletons in his partner's closet. Ricky tries to make amends with Dennis, as Charles plots to keep Ricky in Miami. Travis confides in Spencer during a talk-show appearance.
- 03
Spencer and Joe get a late-game assist in their efforts to win over team owners. After soul-searching, Ricky maps out a new future. Jason gets Charles another crack at a coveted job. Reggie makes an impact at training camp.
- 04
Spencer weighs the pros and cons of an acquisition, and Ricky and Charles set down roots in LA.
- 05
Spencer becomes immersed in a marketing controversy. Still smarting from their feud in Miami, Charles agrees to give Ricky a chance, against his better instincts.
- 06
Spencer and Joe find themselves in a crisis at Sports X, and Ricky considers his motivations for ending his retirement.
- 07
There's No Place Like Home, Baby
Spencer takes his fight to the next level. Ricky jeopardizes his comeback.
- 08
While peacefully enjoying retirement and reflecting on his past, Spencer gets a tantalizing offer. A year after splitting with Spencer, Joe eyes a big swing at Sports X with his new partner, Lance. Ricky finds himself in hot water with Charles, and Vernon considers a life change, much to Reggie's chagrin.
- 09
After learning of competing owner offers, Spencer engages with past allies. Joe is tasked with apologizing for creating a hostile work environment with the help of Kate, a sharp Sports X exec. Ricky and Vernon each consider different kinds of futures, while Charles tries to hide some unwelcome news.
- 10
Just as Spencer reaches out to him with the job of a lifetime, Jason gets an interesting counteroffer from Joe, who's determined to bring his old partner down. Vernon has a tryout at an Esports company and Reggie bemoans his position at Sports X. Ricky turns to partying to deal with his depression. Charles considers what to do about Kisan.
- 11
As Spencer settles into his new role, he makes what could be an unpopular decision; Joe finds his professional life sidetracked by his personal life; Ricky dips his toe into the media pool and shares his true feelings about an ally.
- 12
Spencer feels the pressure as he fights for Kisan; Ricky's radio show gets mixed reviews; and Charles tries to land a big player.
- 13
In the wake of an unexpected tragedy, Spencer prepares for his first owners meeting. While trying to balance work and his relationship with Kate, Joe decides to go on Ricky's radio show. Charles deals with an unexpected health crisis in the middle of his busiest time at work. Vernon, Reggie and Lance try to recruit a trio of gaming siblings for their new league. Jason celebrates his anniversary.
- 14
When Spencer returns to the Sports X offices to work out a major player deal, he and Joe air past grievances and later, Spencer makes a big public statement that's sure to have consequences. Charles mulls over a new deal from Werner after getting a wakeup call about his health. Ricky gets defensive in a meeting with a Hollywood bigwig who has ambitious plans for his future. Vernon, Reggie and Lance arrive at their first Esports tournament as underdogs.
- 15
Despite having a bullseye on his back, Spencer refuses to back down in his fight for the league's players. Joe embraces a new state of mind as he finds peace with himself. Julie encourages Charles to take care of unfinished business. Ricky decides to strike out on his own with his latest project. Reggie takes the next step in his career, with some encouragement from Vernon.
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