NBA Star Stephen Curry Takes Producer Role in Animated Sports Film 'GOAT'
Four-time NBA champion Stephen Curry has expanded his creative portfolio by joining the production team of the upcoming animated feature "GOAT" from Sony Pictures Animation. The film, which explores universal themes of perseverance and teamwork through a fictional professional sport, is scheduled to premiere in Philippine cinemas on February 11, 2026.
A Unique Animated World of Competitive Sports
The animated movie centers on Will, a small goat voiced by actor Caleb McLaughlin, who unexpectedly receives an opportunity to compete in the professional league of roarball. This fictional sport is depicted as intensely physical and dominated by larger animals, creating significant challenges for smaller competitors like Will. The narrative follows his journey as he navigates this demanding athletic environment.
According to producer Michelle Raimo Kouyate, roarball incorporates diverse natural settings including jungles and tundras, allowing animals to utilize their unique physical attributes during gameplay. "The game allows animals to use physical traits such as paws, tails, horns, wings, and other attributes," Kouyate explained, highlighting the creative world-building behind the sport.
Personal Connections to Underdog Themes
Stephen Curry, who serves as a producer on the project, expressed strong personal resonance with the film's central narrative. "I relate to the entire story of 'GOAT,'" Curry revealed. "My journey resembles Will's — being overlooked, underrated — but finding your self-confidence through it all. It's about the power of the team: No matter what walk of life, you can't do anything great without the people around you."
The basketball superstar emphasized how the film incorporates elements from contemporary sports culture into its animated framework. "We included the accessories, the clothes, a dope soundtrack – the cultural references that everybody can laugh at and appreciate," Curry noted. "This is a timeless story – if you watch it 20 years from now, you'll go back to a moment in time."
Universal Appeal of Overcoming Adversity
Caleb McLaughlin, who provides the voice for protagonist Will, discussed the widespread appeal of underdog narratives. "I think underdog stories hit people because we've all felt like underdogs at some point," McLaughlin observed. "We all start from a low place and have to push through our own version of concrete. And when you finally reach a goal, you remember the moments you struggled, or wanted to give up, but didn't."
Co-producer David Schulenburg elaborated on the central conflict of a smaller animal competing in a dangerous professional sport. "In our world, there's no difference between bigs and smalls as far as the culture is concerned," Schulenburg stated. "But roarball is so dangerous — the pace, the terrains — the idea that a small goat would play the game is just unheard of."
Beyond Sports: A Story About Dreams
Co-director Adam Rosette emphasized that while sports provide the backdrop, the film's core message transcends athletics. "It represents what it's like to have a dream, not only what it's like to play sports," Rosette explained. "It's about Will's dream, which just happens to be becoming a pro roarball player."
The production team has worked to create a film that balances specific sports culture references with broader themes of determination and collaboration. With its scheduled Philippine release in early 2026, "GOAT" aims to deliver an inspiring animated experience that resonates with audiences through its celebration of perseverance against odds.
