Mickey Mouse and many of Disney’s iconic characters were part of the NBA’s first animated alt-cast on Christmas Day for the San Antonio Spurs vs. New York Knicks game.
The telecast, (presented on ESPN2, Disney+ and ESPN+) named “Dunk The Halls”, was entirely animated with the player’s movements in sync with what was happening in real time on the basketball court. This was possible due to player-tracking data.
Mickey Mouse imitates Steph Curry as he hits a three pointer and catches fire against the New York Knicks
The animated version of the Spurs vs. Knicks game was set on the iconic Main Street, USA, in Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney Resort. Some famous landmarks within the park were regularly shown during the animated game.
During the broadcast we got to see Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Pluto, Goofy and Chip and Dale getting on the basketball action. The Disney characters delivered pregame and halftime speeches to the players and decorated a large Christmas tree.
Another highlight of the special broadcast was the slam dunk contest, which was won by Minnie Mouse. The character got some help from Pluto, Goofy and Mickey Mouse to make a sparkling move and some magic that had the judges screaming for more. NBA commissioner Adam Silver had some words for Minnie’s spectacular finish.
“I’ve seen a lot of slam dunk contests in my time at the NBA, but this one might have been the most magical. All the participants were wonderful. I figured Goofy would be able to throw it down, he’s even taller in person that what I had imagined.” Silver said.
The Knicks spoil Victor Wembanyama’s Christmas debut
Mikal Bridges scored a season-high 41 points, and the New York Knicks overcame 42 from French superstar Victor Wembanyama in a monster Christmas debut to edge the San Antonio Spurs 117-114 on Wednesday.
Wembanyama set a Spurs’ record for points on the holiday and added 18 rebounds, four assists and four blocked shots. The reigning Western Conference player of the week made six 3-pointers.
But Bridges shot 17 for 25 from the field, 6 for 9 behind the arc, to make sure the Knicks had just enough offense to win their fifth in a row and improve to 20-10.
Karl-Anthony Towns added 21 points and nine rebounds, and Jalen Brunson scored 20 points. Josh Hart finished with 12 points, 12 boards and six assists. Jeremy Sochan had 21 points and nine rebounds for the Spurs.
