The trend of alternate broadcasts with cartoon characters has spread from football to the NBA, offering a new twist on traditional sports viewing. After its success in football, this format is now being used for basketball, where Disney characters play out the games.
But who exactly is this aimed at? Is it for children, or is it just a way for adults to poke fun at the idea?
The purpose remains unclear, but one thing is certain: sports leagues and media companies, flush with cash, continue to push forward with these broadcasts. In the past, fans have seen NFL games featuring slime on Nickelodeon, Toy Story characters playing out an NFL game between the Atlanta Falcons and Jacksonville Jaguars, and the NHL’s 3D animation broadcasts. Not to mention, there was a memorable moment when Homer Simpson threw a touchdown pass for the Dallas Cowboys.
For Christmas, the NBA partnered with Disney to air an alternate broadcast on Disney+ featuring—of course—Disney cartoon characters. Fans watched as Mickey nailed 3-pointers, Goofy threw down dunks, and Donald Duck played top-notch defense.
As expected, NBA fans had plenty to say about the broadcast, sharing a flood of jokes and comments across social media.
