Why Did Netflix’s ‘Running Point’ Dedicate Season 2 to Niko Mijailovic? Tribute Explained

Running Point returned for season 2 and dedicated the newest installment to Niko Mijailovic.

Episode three of the hit Netflix series featured a tribute card for Mijailovic, which read, “In Loving Memory of #6 Niko Mijailovic.” Mijailovic was a varsity volleyball player who died in 2025 at 15 years old.

Mijailovic, who attended a private school in Los Angeles, suffered from sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in April 2025. During his memorial service, it was mentioned that the last show Mijailovic watched with his family before his death was Running Point, which follows Kate Hudson as a reformed party girl, Isla, who gets the chance to prove herself when she is left in charge of her family’s pro basketball team.

The student’s older sister Mila spoke out about Mijailovic’s shocking death.

“There was no warning, and as far as we knew, he was completely healthy,” she wrote via Instagram in April while showing support for the Huddle For Hearts initiative. “He was always active and played sports his entire life. He loved volleyball the most, playing both on his high school varsity team as a freshman, as well as playing club.”

Mila reflected on her bond with her brother, adding, “He was there for every single part of my volleyball career, always supporting me.”

She continued: “As an athlete, he had a lot of drive and a lot of big goals. He also wanted to play Division I volleyball one day, and I always looked forward to seeing him achieve that. He also just has always been a really bright and happy person. He always made people feel comfortable and included. He was my number one supporter.”

Mila got emotional about weathering the major personal loss.

“He was my brother, but also my best friend,” she concluded. “Losing him has been the hardest thing I’ve ever gone through, but what makes it harder is that we didn’t know anything was wrong. There weren’t any signs that something like this was going to happen, until the one morning I got the phone call that he just didn’t wake up.”

Mijailovic’s school Campbell Hall paid tribute by retiring his jersey, writing via Instagram, “Niko was a true light within our community. Niko joined Campbell Hall in Kindergarten and grew into a beloved and thriving member of our varsity boys’ volleyball team. Beyond his incredible athletic talent, Niko was known for his quiet confidence, kind heart, and deep love for his friends and family. 🕊️💙💛.”