Even though things are still in the preliminary stages of production, there’s a lot to be excited about for Space Jam 2. After all, the world has rapidly changed since 1996 (when the first Space Jam came out), and there’s a whole new generation of NBA players to cast from now. We already know Cleveland Cavaliers’ superstar LeBron James will assume Michael Jordan’s role as the main character amid the Looney Tunes. But also like the original, the sequel will need a stellar starting five cultivated from the best of the NBA to round out its cast and balance out the “looney.” Here’s who I think should ideally be in the movie’s potential all-star lineup.
Stephen Curry – Golden State Warriors
Even if you’re not a huge sports fan, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of Stephen Curry, or more likely, his daughter, Riley. The almost-4-year-old stole America’s heart last year when she took over her dad’s post-game press conference with some adorable and hilarious antics. We saw Michael Jordan’s kids in the first Space Jam, so who’s to say we couldn’t see a bouncing Riley (and baby sister Ryan) interacting with Bugs and Daffy in this one?
But even without Riley, Steph can certainly hold his own, as he’s become the new face of the NBA. He led the Warriors to a championship last year and a record 73-win season this year, won a second-straight MVP award unanimously, and completely obliterated the record books with his 3-point shooting. Plus, with his baby-face looks and humble attitude, and the picture-perfect first family of the NBA, he’s a relatable superstar – the everyman’s player, if you will.
Honestly, if plans for this movie were just starting to form within the past year, Steph could’ve easily taken LeBron’s place as the lead character.
Chris Paul – Los Angeles Clippers
It’s hard to believe he’s a seasoned veteran already, but Chris Paul is as popular as ever and is still one of the best point guards the game has to offer. If you don’t watch sports, then you might have seen in a number of State Farm commercials (most notably as “Dad”). He’s also one of the most active players in helping out the community and kids, and hosts numerous basketball camps across the country to help kids develop and hone their skills as athletes. With CP3 on the roster, the Tune Squad would be getting one of the most well-respected players and a role model for its audiences.
Draymond Green – Golden State Warriors
There’s a good reason why the Warriors won 73 games this past season, and a big part of that reason is Draymond Green. He had a breakout year (and is still improving) in which it only became more and more clear that he is the heart of the team. He may have had some controversy recently, but he has a fire that cannot be extinguished, and he’s a vocal leader both on and off the court. And even with all that intense energy, he’s still one of the nicest, most caring guys you could hope to meet. His all-around complete game would surely make whoever’s giving the Looney Tunes a hard time run for the hills.
Dwight Howard – Atlanta Hawks
Alright, maybe Dwight Howard isn’t at the top of his game anymore, but he’s leaving a messy situation in Houston to join the Atlanta Hawks this upcoming season, so perhaps he still has a second wind. But if the Dwight of last decade were to show up for the movie, then we’d be in for a real treat. In the span of 3 Slam Dunk Contests at the NBA All-Star Weekend from 2007-2009, he provided true entertainment with the creativity of his dunks. Most notably in 2008, the year he won, he took off his jersey to reveal a Superman shirt underneath and added a red cape for full effect before he slammed the ball home.
To top it all off, he has one of the nicest and most electric personalities in the NBA, and his smile just radiates fun. I don’t know about you, but I personally want to see Superman meet Bugs Bunny.
Dwyane Wade – Miami Heat
D-Wade. Flash. Father Prime. Whatever nickname you choose to use, Dwyane Wade has earned it. The Heat superstar has been the focal point of the team for the past decade, as other big names, including LeBron, have joined him to win 3 championships. He’s appeared in numerous commercials, most recently for Gatorade, and he’s one of the best-dressed players in the NBA. And like the others, Dwyane has a magnetic personality and is extremely active in philanthropic activities, including establishing his own foundation. Hopefully we’ll see him making a “Flash” in the movie.
There will be plenty of opportunities for other players to make cameos in Space Jam 2, and perhaps even a few Hall-of-Famers, like Shaq or even Jordan himself could sneak in there. But for a solid starting five, Warner Bros. will need to seek out players that are both kid-friendly and basketball superstars.
