'Air Bud Returns' Movie Announced in New Photo, Release Date Set for Summer 2026

Air Bud is back, for the 15th time.

Cineverse and Air Bud Entertainment revealed a movie poster for Air Bud Returns on Thursday, with the canine hooper returning to the big screen in Summer 2026 for the 15th entry into the film series.

"Air Bud Returns isn't just another sequel or remake—it's a unique story," the movie's writer and director, Robert Vince, said in a statement (h/t Variety.). "This movie will engage nostalgic Air Bud fans while introducing a new generation to the beloved basketball-playing golden retriever, Buddy. It builds upon the legacy of the OG Air Bud with all the fun, the magic, heartwarming scenes, and Buddy playing basketball. More than anything, it's a deeply human story about a dog and boy, centered on themes of adaptation, redemption, and teamwork."

The original Air Bud released in 1997 and was a surprise commercial success despite receiving mixed reviews, spawning a franchise in its aftermath. Its direct sequel, Air Bud: Golden Retriever flopped at the box office, however, and the remaining movies in the series were direct-to-video releases.

As for the upcoming entry in the series, is Buddy ready to adapt to the modern spacing of the NBA game? Is he a genuine 3-and-D option?

Well, this version of Air Bud is taking a slightly different approach.

The press release noted that it will center upon a 12-year old boy, Jacob, who has "always dreamt of being a star basketball player. After the passing of his father, that dream felt even more impossible. But everything changes when he and his mom move into his dad’s childhood home in Fernfield. There, Jacob discovers an original VHS of the Air Bud movie in his father's belongings and has a chance meeting of a stray golden retriever he names Buddy. Together they embark on a journey of healing, unite a team of misfits, and chase a championship. Through it all they learn to play from the heart, believe in each other, and always take the shot!"

Filming on the project is set to begin this summer, per Variety.