I’m a sucker for TJR and the characters she brings to life, and Carrie Soto was no exception. An abrasive but electric player who genuinely is unbothered by the opinions of her opponents and sportscasters who doubt her abilities. Rough around the edges, and being introduced in Malibu Rising as “the other woman”, she’s a tough pill to swallow. At 37 years old, she decides to take on the impossible. Her father and coach, Javier, is undoubtedly the best character though. He has a passion for the sport that he passes down to her. By the time we get to know him, he’s just happy to see her play, encouraging her from the sidelines as the best coach anyone could ask for. Nicki Chan is an incredible opponent for Soto, not just in her capabilities but in her demeanor and sportsmanship. Even Carrie can’t deny how much she enjoys her as a person—especially when she doesn’t enjoy most people. But she knows you can like or dislike whoever you want, the game reveals who will be the champion. And Carrie will be damned if it isn’t her.