“There are no rules that prevent a dog from playing basketball.” According to Variety, the iconic Air Bud franchise is making a highly anticipated return to theaters in the summer of 2026 with the new release titled Air Bud Returns. This upcoming film marks the astonishing fifteenth installment in the series — yes, you read that right — how on earth did we end up with fourteen previous Air Bud movies? It’s truly surprising and frankly hard to believe how this franchise has expanded over the years. What a remarkable journey it has been!
As we look forward to Air Bud Returns, we should note that the film will be crafted by the talented Robert Vance, who has not only produced the entire franchise but has also helmed ten of the earlier films as director and writer. Isn’t it astonishing? While I may not have been the target demographic for these films in a long time, I never realized just how prolific this series actually was. Each installment seems to have added to the rich legacy of this beloved canine.
The narrative of the new film centers around Jacob, a determined 12-year-old boy with aspirations of becoming a star basketball player. “After the death of his father, achieving that dream seemed even more distant. However, everything takes a turn when he and his mother move into his father’s childhood residence in Fernfield,” according to the film synopsis. “While there, Jacob stumbles upon an original VHS tape of the ‘Air Bud’ film among his father’s possessions and encounters a stray golden retriever he names Buddy. Together, they embark on an emotional journey of healing, rally together a team of underdogs, and chase after a championship title. Throughout their adventure, they learn the importance of playing from the heart, believing in one another, and always taking their shot!“
In a recent statement, Vance expressed, “‘Air Bud Returns’ is not merely another sequel or a simple remake — it presents a distinct and engaging story. This film aims to captivate nostalgic fans of Air Bud while simultaneously introducing a new generation to the cherished basketball-playing golden retriever, Buddy. It builds on the legacy of the original ‘Air Bud,’ featuring all the fun, magic, and heartwarming moments, along with Buddy showcasing his basketball skills. Ultimately, it’s a profoundly human story about the bond between a dog and a boy, highlighting themes of adaptability, redemption, and teamwork.”
Yolanda Macias, the chief motion pictures officer at Cineverse, a partner with Air Bud Entertainment for this project, added, “For those who track box office trends, it’s evident that we are at a significant juncture where ’90s and early 2000s nostalgia intersects with millennial parents in search of family-friendly films to enjoy with their children. With the revival of an iconic franchise that has maintained its popularity since Robert launched the original Air Bud over 28 years ago, we are offering a true delight that will resonate with fans across multiple generations. This project represents an ideal opportunity for us as we broaden our theatrical strategy to focus on the kids and family entertainment sector.“
The filming of Air Bud Returns is set to commence this summer in Fort Langley, British Columbia, the very location where the original film was shot nearly three decades ago. It’s a nostalgic return to the roots of this beloved series.
