What is the "Dunk the Halls" broadcast for the Knicks vs. Cavs game?

It's an alternate animated broadcast on ESPN2 and Disney Channel featuring Disney characters and animation.

Which Disney characters will be in the NBA game broadcast?

Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Stitch, and Daisy Duck are featured characters.

When is the Disney-animated NBA game?

The alternate broadcast is scheduled for Christmas Day, December 25th.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Disney Characters Join NBA Christmas Game

Disney Characters Join NBA Christmas Game

24 Dec, 2025

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Summary

ESPN and Disney offer a second year of animated Christmas Day broadcast.
Familiar Disney characters will appear in a Magic Kingdom setting.
Players will be animated via advanced technology for the broadcast.

Disney Characters Join NBA Christmas Game

This Christmas Day, fans can experience an alternate viewing of the New York Knicks versus Cleveland Cavaliers game through a special animated broadcast. This collaboration between ESPN and Disney marks the second year for "Dunk the Halls," an event that first debuted last season.

The unique telecast will be set in Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort, featuring iconic Disney characters such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Stitch. Advanced technology will animate all players as their chosen Disney characters during gameplay.

This innovative approach to sports broadcasting follows other experimental animated and alternate telecasts. ESPN has previously partnered with Marvel and Disney for similar events, while CBS has collaborated with Nickelodeon. The ManningCast, an alternate NFL broadcast featuring Peyton and Eli Manning, has also gained popularity.