Sony Pictures Animation Sets "Goat" Release for February 2026 to Coincide with NBA All-Star Festivities

Sony Pictures Animation has officially slated the premiere of its upcoming feature-length animated film, "Goat," for February 13, 2026. This strategic release date is meticulously timed to align with the National Basketball Association's (NBA) All-Star Weekend, which is set to take place in Los Angeles. The film aims to capture the massive sporting audience gathered in the city for one of the biggest events in the professional basketball calendar.

The movie is described as an original action-comedy set within a vibrant universe populated entirely by animals. At the helm of this production is director Tyree Dillihay, a seasoned veteran of the industry known for directing 32 episodes of the hit sitcom "Bob's Burgers" and earning two Emmy Award nominations for his work. The narrative centers on Will Harris, a diminutive goat harboring massive aspirations. Will finds himself competing in "roarball," a fictional and intense high-contact sport dominated by much larger and faster predators. His journey is fueled by the defiant motto "smalls can ball!", as he seeks to prove that heart and skill outweigh physical stature.

The world of roarball is characterized by its high-energy, oversized arenas that incorporate natural environmental hazards such as slippery ice and hanging vines. These elements force the animal athletes to utilize their biological advantages, from powerful horns and sweeping tails to agile wings. Executive producer Michelle Raimo Kouyate has described the film's aesthetic as a "visual stew," a unique stylistic fusion that blends the lushness of the jungle with the urban grit of Brooklyn. This visual language is further enriched by deep influences from hip-hop culture, high fashion, and the global basketball community.

A prestigious ensemble of talent has been assembled to bring these animated characters to life. Caleb McLaughlin, widely recognized for his role in "Stranger Things," provides the voice for the protagonist, Will Harris. Joining him is four-time NBA champion Stephen Curry, who serves as an executive producer and lends his voice to a giraffe named Lenny Williamson. Curry has noted that the film carries a timeless message, emphasizing that genuine passion is the primary ingredient for success. The supporting cast is equally impressive, featuring Gabrielle Union as the star panther Jett Fillmore, alongside Nicola Coughlan, Nick Kroll, Jennifer Hudson, and former NBA legend Dwyane Wade.

The February 13, 2026, debut is specifically chosen to coincide with the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game held at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles. This serves as a prelude to the main event, the 2026 NBA All-Star Game, which will feature a "USA vs. World" format on February 15 at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. By launching during this window, Sony ensures the film is at the center of the basketball frenzy gripping the Los Angeles metropolitan area. Additionally, the Motion Picture Association has granted the film a PG rating, citing instances of crude humor and brief suggestive language.

Director Dillihay envisions "Goat" as a "generation-defining underdog story" that balances deep emotional resonance with high-stakes inspiration. The film promises plenty of comedic moments derived from the inherently absurd sight of various animals decked out in professional sports gear. Complementing the visual storytelling is a musical score composed by Chris Bowers, intended to elevate the film's energetic and motivational tone.