Gabrielle Union, Steph Curry on How 'Goat' Embraced Basketball Culture

Variety

by Payton Turkeltaub

February 13, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Sony Pictures Animation’s *Goat*, an animated film produced by four-time NBA champion Stephen Curry and featuring an all-star voice cast including Gabrielle Union and Steph Curry himself, dives deep into the world of basketball culture through its fictional sport, roarball. The movie captures the essence of how basketball transcends the court, becoming a cultural phenomenon that influences fashion, music, and social media. Set in a vibrant animated universe where animals play a high-stakes version of basketball, *Goat* explores the lifestyle and identity of these athletes both on and off the court, mirroring the real-world influence of basketball in pop culture. The film follows Will Harris, a young Boer goat with big dreams, as he navigates his journey from a roarball super-fan to a professional player. Working as a delivery goat to make ends meet, Will spends his free time practicing at a local streetball court, embodying the classic underdog story of an aspiring athlete. His rise to fame begins after a viral video of him competing against a rival player catches the attention of Flo Everson, owner of the struggling Vineland Thorns. This moment highlights the role of social media in modern sports, as Will’s viral moment parallels how real-life athletes gain recognition today. Beyond the on-court action, *Goat* delves into the cultural aspects of basketball, such as the importance of fashion and lifestyle. The characters sport luxury athleisure, flashy chains, and exclusive sneakers, much like their human counterparts in the NBA. The film also touches on the role of music and diss tracks within sports culture, with a scene where rival players engage in playful yet intense banter over a livestream. These elements emphasize how basketball has become intertwined with art, technology, and fashion, making it a global phenomenon. In its storytelling and cultural commentary, *Goat* stands out as a fresh take on animated sports films, offering a deeper exploration of basketball’s impact on pop culture than previous hits like *Space Jam*. Directed by Tyree Dillihay and Adam Rosette, the film aims to resonate with audiences interested in the intersection of sports, entertainment, and lifestyle. With its unique blend of humor, heart, and cultural insight, *Goat

Verticals

entertainmentfilm

Originally published on Variety on 2/13/2026