ESPN & Disney Launch First Animated NBA Broadcast 'Dunk the Halls' on Christmas Day
November 20, 2024This innovative broadcast will be available on ESPN2, Disney+, and ESPN+, aiming to attract young viewers and their families.
Following this event, ESPN+ and Disney+ will also present an alternative broadcast of the Bengals-Cowboys game on December 9, featuring characters from The Simpsons.
ESPN and Disney are set to debut 'Dunk the Halls,' the first fully animated NBA alternative broadcast, during the Christmas Day game featuring the San Antonio Spurs and New York Knicks.
Utilizing advanced real-time visualization technology from Sony, the animated presentation will synchronize player movements with the actual game, showcasing stars like Victor Wembanyama and Jalen Brunson.
The game will kick off at 12 PM Eastern Time on December 25, 2024, at Madison Square Garden, where the Knicks will host the Spurs.
Iconic Disney characters, including Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck, will feature prominently, with Daisy Duck serving as the animated sideline reporter.
The production will employ optical tracking technology to enhance the realism of animated player movements, marking a significant advancement in sports broadcasting.
The commentary team will include animated versions of ESPN commentators Drew Carter and Monica McNutt, who will wear virtual-reality headgear to experience the game alongside viewers.
This initiative continues ESPN's trend of alternative broadcasts, following previous collaborations like 'Marvel’s Arena of Heroes' in 2021.
The production aims to engage children and counter declining youth interest in sports, as noted by Beyond Sports CEO Sander Schouten.
Fans can expect interactive elements, such as whimsical features like whether it will snow on 'Main Street, USA' during the game.
Disney's use of Sony technology will enhance viewer engagement, making this broadcast a unique experience in sports media.
Summary based on 8 sources
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Sources
The Athletic • Nov 20, 2024
Disney, ESPN to air Mickey Mouse alt-cast for Knicks-Spurs on ChristmasESPN • Nov 21, 2024
ESPN to show Disney-animated alt-cast of Knicks-Spurs on Dec. 25 - ESPNVariety • Nov 20, 2024
ESPN Readies Animated Knicks Vs. Spurs NBA Game on Christmas Day