'Space Jam 2' release date, cast, spoilers: Is 2019 NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo part of the sequel?

The production of “Space Jam 2” is underway with Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James taking the lead. It is obvious that bringing in the biggest names in the league is one of his goals for the film, but does the cast include recently crowned NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo?

“Space Jam 2” cast: Why Milwaukee Bucks star is not included

The film series is a classic among basketball-loving fans and those who grew up watching Looney Tunes. The first live-action movie followed a fictionalized plot and featured real-life basketball stars who starred in the film as themselves. While the overall plot of “Space Jam 2” is still unknown, it appears that the sequel will follow the same format.

This also means that “Space Jam 2” is going to be the culmination of the biggest names in the current generation of NBA gathered by James. With Antetokounmpo being one of the sought-after athletes in the league right now, some fans may find it quite shocking that he is actually not part of the upcoming movie.

His decision was actually confirmed earlier this year, even before the 2018-19 playoffs season began. Antetokounmpo told ESPN at the time that makes sure he spends time with family during summer. But the main reason he did not join “Space Jam 2” is simply because he does not like the Hollywood spotlight. “I don't like all this extra drama,” he added. So even if the filming takes place during the off-season, obviously not to interfere with the players’ training, Antetokounmpo declined the movie project.

“Space Jam 2” production, release date: James, other NBA stars convene for filming

Fans will surely miss Antetokounmpo in the sequel, but James still managed to recruit a long list of highly followed NBA stars for “Space Jam 2.” Moviegoers can reportedly count in new Laker Anthony Davis, Chris Paul, Damian Lillard, and James’s former Miami Heat teammate Chris Bosh.

Recent on-set photos also suggest that Golden State Warriors stars Draymond Green and Klay Thompson have joined James on a filming location of “Space Jam 2.” Several WNBA players slated to star in the movie include Diana Taurasi, Chiney Ogwumike, and Nneka Ogwumike. Meanwhile, “Star Trek: Discovery” actress Sonequa Martin-Green stars as James’ wife, Savannah James.

The 15-time NBA All-Star player confirmed in a tweet on June 24 that they have officially started filming “Space Jam 2.” The movie is set to premiere on July 16, 2021.