Bristol, Connecticut – In an exciting announcement, Disney and ESPN revealed that on Christmas Day, their first-ever animated alternative broadcast featuring beloved Disney characters such as Mickey Mouse will take place alongside an NBA game.

Scheduled for December 25, the matchup will see the San Antonio Spurs face off against the New York Knicks. This unique animated experience will be available on ESPN2, Disney+, and ESPN+. The event has been titled “Dunk the Halls.”

While this marks a new venture for the NBA, ESPN is no stranger to animated broadcasts, having previously implemented similar formats for NFL and NHL games.

The entire telecast will be animated, capturing the players’ movements in real time using advanced technology. This is made possible by the player-tracking data provided by Sony’s Hawk-Eye Innovations’ optical tracking system, in partnership with Beyond Sports.

Set in the enchanting backdrop of “Main Street, USA” at Walt Disney World Resort, the animated game will showcase charming visuals, including frequent shots of iconic attractions such as Cinderella’s Castle.

For viewers who prefer a more traditional viewing experience, the regular broadcast will also be made available on ABC and ESPN.

This innovative approach to sports broadcasting combines the excitement of the NBA with the magic of Disney, promising a delightful experience for basketball fans and Disney enthusiasts alike this holiday season.