50 Best Sports Movies Ever

44. Space Jam

Year: 1996
Sport: Basketball
Starring: Michael Jordan, Wayne Knight, Theresa Randle, Bill Murray, Looney Tunes
Director: Joe Pytka

Forgive my nostalgia, but comedy or otherwise, Space Jam is one of the most memorable sports movies ever made. It’s quirky and fun instead of serious and inspirational, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t one of the 50 best.

Starring NBA legend Michael Jordan, Seinfeld’s Wayne Knight, beloved actor Bill Murray, and the Looney Tunes, Space Jam is an eternally entertaining sports film.

There’s nothing rational about this film, but that’s why it’s such a fun experience for people of any age. There’s lasting comedy on the behalf of the Looney Tunes, fun cameos by NBA legends, and Michael Jordan’s solidification as the best player in the galaxy.

The last part may be a bit of a stretch—pun intended—but the fact that Space Jam is watched and discussed today is evidence enough of its quality.

With Knight and Murray facilitating the live-action comedy, and the Looney Tunes doing what they do best, the NBA stars stepped up to steal their scenes. Jordan was the main character, but the likes of Charles Barkley, Larry Bird, Muggsy Bogues, Shawn Bradley, Patrick Ewing, and Larry Johnson all appeared in the film.

LeBron James has not denied his involvement in a rumored Space Jam 2.

Next: 43. Happy Gilmore