Release Date: February 13, 2026 | Studio: Sony Pictures Animation / Stephen Curry’s Unanimous Media | Director: Tyree Dillihay | Co-director: Adam Rosette | Stars: Caleb McLaughlin, Gabrielle Union, Stephen Curry, Aaron Pierre, Nicola Coughlan | Budget: $80-90 million | Opening: $32 million (4-day Presidents Day)
What is GOAT? Animated sports comedy about Will Harris (Caleb McLaughlin), teenage goat aspiring to “Greatest Of All Time” status in roarball—basketball-derived, full-contact, multi-species sport. Stephen Curry produces; his NBA career (undersized, underestimated, champion) inspires Will’s underdog arc.
What is roarball? The film’s invented sport: basketball with Mad Max violence. Hollow ball with holes, full contact allowed, arenas featuring lava, ice, swamps, sandstorms. “Homefield advantage” is literal—Vineland Thorns play in vine-choked urban court; away games in hostile environments.
Who does Caleb McLaughlin play? Will Harris, 16-year-old goat, delivery driver, orphan (yes, another animated orphan), basketball genius denied by “bigs” (larger animals) who dominate roarball. McLaughlin (Stranger Things‘ Lucas) brings teenage vulnerability and athletic credibility—he actually plays basketball, unlike voice-actors who fake it.
What is goat yoga? During press tour, McLaughlin and Union attempted actual goat yoga—yoga poses with goats climbing on participants. “Kicked in the nuts,” McLaughlin laughed on The Jennifer Hudson Show. Union: “That is a dot, dot, dot.” The experience became running gag: would they do it again? “Never.”
Who is Gabrielle Union’s character? Jett Fillmore, leopard superstar, all-time leading scorer, “flamboyant” veteran who “hogs the ball” and “isn’t a team player.” Union—Dwyane Wade’s wife, basketball insider—brings authenticity. Jett’s arc: learning to trust teammates, specifically Will.
What is Stephen Curry’s involvement? Producer and voice actor (Giraffe, “lost his passion for the game”). Curry’s Unanimous Media co-produced. The film is autobiographical allegory: Curry was underestimated for size (6’2″ vs. NBA average 6’7″), became 4-time champion. Will’s “night night” celebration—Curry’s signature—appears in film.
Who else is in the cast?
- Aaron Pierre: Mane Attraction, Andalusian horse, Will’s rival-turned-mentor
- Nicola Coughlan: Ostrich, social media addict
- Nick Kroll: Komodo dragon, bizarre accent
- David Harbour: Rhino, father of twins, aggression tamed by parenthood
- Patton Oswalt: Proboscis monkey coach, “grief counseling” pep talks
- Jenifer Lewis: Flo, Thorns owner, “publicity-hungry”
- Jelly Roll: Wolf announcer
- Jennifer Hudson, Ayesha Curry, Dwyane Wade, A’ja Wilson, Kevin Love, Angel Reese: Various voices
What is the critical reception? Mixed: 79% Rotten Tomatoes (certified fresh), but AP News called it “disappointing air ball,” “predictable, saccharine.” Common Sense Media praised “positive themes” and “parent’s enduring love.” The Wrap: “Doesn’t live up to its title, but plenty of fun.”
Why did it open soft? $32 million 4-day (projected) versus Wuthering Heights‘ $40 million. Family competition: Zootopia 2 still in theaters, Hoppers (Pixar) coming March. But CinemaScore “A” and 5-star kid ratings suggest legs—Migration (2023) opened $12.7 million, reached $300 million global.
What is the NBA connection? Beyond Curry: Wade, Wilson, Love, Reese cameos. In-jokes for serious fans: Michael Jordan/Larry Bird “Nothing But Net” commercial reference, Allen Iverson crossovers, Dennis Rodman comparison (Modo character). Curry’s jersey number and celebration appear.
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