NBA uses controversial artificial intelligence to replace players with Disney characters

NBA begins to unfold its controversial AI program announced in February 2024, with a Christmas broadcast in which the players on the court will be replaced by Disney characters.

Back in February, NBA commissioner Adam Silver first introduced the world to what they call “NB-AI.” The idea is to essentially remake live basketball games in completely different styles.

One example showed how an NBA game could look like it was set in a Spider-Man movie. It’s safe to say that the reception at the time was not very positive, with many voicing their criticism and asking who needs such a program anyway?

Well, like it or not, NB-AI is racing full steam ahead, with the first full broadcast now scheduled for Christmas. Instead of watching the regular New York Knicks vs. Spurs game on December 25, viewers can switch to an AI-powered broadcast from a virtual replica of Disney World.

The idea is for every second of real-life NBA action to match the real-time animation in Disney’s virtual world. So, if Chris Paul makes a three-pointer in real life, the additional broadcast will show Mickey Mouse making that particular three-pointer.

As the press release explains, it will be a 1:1 scale reflection of the actual game, brought to life using “state-of-the-art real-time rendering technology.”

This Christmas we’re making Mickey’s only wish come true

Live stream Disney Dunk the Halls featuring the Spurs and Knicks on Christmas Day on ESPN2, ESPN+ and Disney+ pic.twitter.com/zPLHxMrSps

— ESPN (@espn) November 20, 2024

Disney characters appearing in the “Dunk the Halls” special will also give pregame and halftime speeches, with Daisy Duck serving as a supporting reporter. Of course, there will be a lot going on in the background besides the competition itself.

The story takes place on Main Street USA at the Magic Kingdom theme park. Cameras will regularly pan around the Happiest Place on Earth, showing off all sorts of sights while Disney characters get up to all sorts of holiday antics.