The series mostly sticks to character-driven sports drama, but there are notable instances where identity politics and modern ideological messaging shape certain character arcs and relationships. Some viewers may interpret these moments as distracting from the realism of the historical period depicted, but the majority of the focus remains on basketball and personal ambition.

The show often casts traditional masculinity in a critical light, highlighting flaws and failures of its male leads, while giving significant narrative power to female and minority characters. Religion and family take a backseat, and the show updates 1980s attitudes with modern sensibilities, occasionally feeling out of step with the era it portrays.

A clear slant is present, with most alternative or traditional perspectives shown through deeply flawed or hammy antagonists. Pluralism is limited, and the prevailing moral outlook fits squarely within present-day progressive standards, with little genuine internal conflict or debate.