'Space Jam 2' release date, cast: Filming kicks off; Klay Thompson joins LeBron James on set despite ACL injury

Shortly after the NBA 2018-19 Finals and 2019 Draft, the league is busy again with the free agency now officially open. Meanwhile, some of its biggest stars are making time for LeBron James’s upcoming movie “Space Jam 2” including the still-injured Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson.

Klay Thompson joins star-studded ‘Space Jam 2’ cast

Thompson exited season 2018-19 in an unfortunate situation after tearing his left ACL during the NBA 2018-19 Finals game 6 where the Toronto Raptors took home their first-ever franchise championship win. On the bright side, it now appears that Thompson is recovering well since then.

TMZ shared a video from the supposed set of “Space Jam 2” where Thompson is seen walking with a single crutch and hugging James, the movie’s main star. Though Thompson seems to be in good health, it is unclear how he could participate in filming the movie now that he is still nursing an injury.

James, who plays as himself in the sequel, will be joined by other NBA stars for “Space Jam 2.” Thompson’s teammate Draymond Green (reportedly could be traded by the Warriors), Lakers’ new star Anthony Davis, and Damian Lillard who just agreed to stay in Portland were all reportedly spotted in Los Angeles for the sequel.

Aside from the mentioned NBA stars, “Space Jam 2” will also star “The Walking Dead” alum Sonequa Martin-Green who will play as LeBron’s wife and businesswoman Savannah James. The much-awaited sequel is also bringing together several WNBA athletes including Diana Taurasi, Nneka Ogwumike, and Chiney Ogwumike. Of course, the movie will not be complete without its main animated stars Lola Bunny and Bugs Bunny.

When will ‘Space Jam 2’ premiere?

As mentioned, the filming of “Space Jam 2” appears to be underway still. It is also important to note that these basketball superstars will have to squeeze in filming schedules in the middle of training camps during the off-season. This was one of the reported reasons why, in April, NBA 2019 MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo refused to join the movie.

Details about the “Space Jam 2” plot are still scarce, but fans can count on LeBron to play for the Tune Squad in the sequel. Meanwhile, IMDb lists its release date on July 16, 2021.