Catch the Festive NBA Magic: Your Guide to ‘Dunk the Halls’ This Christmas!

The moment has arrived to bring the NBA to Walt Disney World. Disney, ESPN, and the NBA are collaborating to present the gift of “Dunk the Halls” — the inaugural real-time animated NBA game — on Christmas Day.

Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, and the New York Knicks will take on Victor Wembanyama, Chris Paul, and the San Antonio Spurs in a unique alt-cast that signifies the first animated showing of an NBA match. The virtual, live re-creation of the Spurs vs. Knicks contest will take place on the legendary Main Street, USA in Magic Kingdom® Park at Walt Disney World Resort.

These teams will compete in front of animated spectators, including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Pluto, Goofy, Chip, and Dale. Mickey and the other Disney characters will also participate in a special slam dunk competition at halftime.

Here are some important details regarding “Dunk the Halls”:

How can fans catch “Dunk the Halls”?

*All times stated in Eastern

Wednesday 12/25

Spurs at Knicks alt-cast – Noon on ESPN2/ESPN+/Disney+

Fans can enjoy all the excitement in the NBA streaming hub.

What inspired the creation of “Dunk the Halls”?

The narrative behind the “Dunk the Halls” presentation starts with Mickey’s holiday request to Santa Claus, wishing to see NBA players in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort for the first animated NBA game on Christmas Day. This aligns with ESPN and the NBA’s celebrated legacy of innovation, which includes alt-cast presentations that leverage the exceptional reach and capacity of The Walt Disney Company. In 2021, ESPN and the NBA partnered with Marvel for “Marvel’s Arena of Heroes,” — an alt-cast of a regular-season NBA game.

What additional content can NBA enthusiasts enjoy this Christmas?

Take a look at this guide covering everything NBA Christmas-related for this year’s complete ESPN game schedule, historical records, and more intriguing tidbits about holiday basketball.

How can fans access more ESPN coverage of the NBA?

Visit the ESPN NBA hub page for the latest updates, scores, statistics, schedules, and additional information.