More than 25 years after he first wowed audiences with his jump shot, Air Bud is lacing up again. Cineverse and Air Bud Entertainment have announced Air Bud Returns, a brand-new movie hitting theaters in Summer 2026. That’s right, It’s everyone’s favorite golden retriever is back to win hearts, championships, and probably a few hot dogs.
From VHS Nostalgia to Modern-Day Hoops
The new film follows 12-year-old Jacob, who’s mourning the loss of his dad when he discovers a dusty VHS tape of the original Air Bud. Then, just like fate (or a very clever screenwriter) intended, he meets a stray golden retriever who’s got serious game. Together, they form a team of misfits, bond through basketball, and learn lessons about healing, teamwork, and believing in yourself.
And yes, Buddy dunks.
You don’t need VHS to watch the original version. It’s available to stream on Disney+
Cineverse Gets in the Game
Air Bud Returns is the first kids and family theatrical release from Cineverse’s new Motion Pictures Group. Filming kicks off this summer in Fernfield (aka Fort Langley, British Columbia) the same charming town where Buddy’s story began. It’s part of Cineverse’s strategy to revive legacy IP with heartwarming new storytelling.
“Anyone who follows the box office knows that we are experiencing an important moment at the intersection of 90s and early 2000s nostalgia and Millennial parents looking for family-friendly movies to share with their kids,” said Cineverse Chief Motion Pictures Officer Yolanda Macias. “With the return of an iconic franchise that has remained popular since Robert created the OG Air Bud more than 28 years ago, we are offering a real treat that will resonate with fans across generations. This is the ideal first project for us as we expand our theatrical strategy to the kids and family category.”
The sentiment was echoed by writer-director Robert Vince, the man behind the OG film. Said Vince, “This movie will engage nostalgic Air Bud fans while introducing a new generation to the beloved basketball-playing golden retriever.
While the movie’s heading to theaters first, Cineverse is a streaming-savvy studio—so expect Air Bud Returns to land on a digital platform sometime after its box office run. No streaming service has been announced yet, but given the franchise’s billion-views history, don’t be surprised if Buddy shows up with a big streaming deal.
Until then, you might want to dust off that old VHS player…or better yet, stream the original Air Bud on Disney+ and relive the magic. Because when it comes to family-friendly hoops and heart? Buddy still rules the court.
