During a recent discussion on ESPN’s The Hoop Collective, Brian Windhorst shared his views after watching Steph Curry’s animated film, GOAT, with his son, sparking reactions for taking a subtle jab at LeBron James’ movies. The Golden State Warriors star, who is also a producer on the project, has garnered widespread praise for the film, which contrasts with the mixed reception of LeBron’s Space Jam sequel.
Windhorst Praises Curry’s Film While Taking a Dig at LeBron
Brian Windhorst revealed on Friday that he attended the premiere of Steph Curry’s movie GOAT with his son, who thoroughly enjoyed the film. Windhorst himself found the plot enjoyable and highlighted how the animated movie was well-written and produced. Despite Curry not appearing as a lead actor, he lent his voice to the character Lenny Williamson and contributed as one of the producers through his company, Unanimous Media.
After describing his experience, Windhorst made a pointed comparison that appeared to undermine LeBron James’ involvement in movie projects.
“With all due to respect to Space Jam 2, GOAT is the goat. That’s all I’m going to say,” Brian Windhorst, ESPN Analyst
This remark triggered an immediate and intense reaction from fans on X (formerly Twitter), with many defending LeBron and criticizing Windhorst for seemingly taking an unfair shot at the Lakers superstar.
Fan Reactions Highlight Tensions Over Windhorst’s Comments
Social media users expressed amusement, frustration, and disbelief at Windhorst’s statement, with comments questioning his allegiance and motives. Several fans suggested Windhorst may have distanced himself from LeBron or the Klutch Sports agency, while others challenged the necessity of the comparison.
“klutch cheque got bounce windy?😂” Fan on X
“Windhorst finally off that Lbj tip, looks good on him,” Another fan on X
“What was the point of even bringing that up ppl just taking shots at Bron for zero reason,” Concerned fan on X
Some comments also referenced a strained relationship reportedly existing between LeBron James and Windhorst, highlighting past interactions and disagreements.
“LeBron should’ve never called Windy weird. 😂” Fan commentary
“WTF was the point of bringing up Space Jam 2 other than to get views This is EXACTLY why Bron made it clear that he doesn’t know this fat f**k…” Angry fan on X
“Windy off the Klutch payroll forreal forreal,” Another fan remarked
Comparison of Box Office and Critical Response Between GOAT and Space Jam 2
The sequel to the iconic Space Jam franchise, starring LeBron James, debuted in July 2021 with high anticipation but received mixed critical reviews. Rotten Tomatoes gave it a low approval rating of 25%, though it achieved moderate commercial success, earning over $70 million domestically and $163 million globally.
In contrast, Steph Curry’s GOAT has been met with much higher acclaim. The animated film scored 93% on Popcornmeter and 82% on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting stronger positive feedback from audiences and critics alike. Curry’s involvement as a producer and voice actor has played a noteworthy role in the film’s success, underscoring his influence beyond basketball.
This dynamic adds another layer to the rivalry often observed between Curry and LeBron, extending it from the basketball court into entertainment.
Significance of the Film Rivalry Within NBA Culture
The friendly, yet intense, competition between Steph Curry and LeBron James is mirrored in how their off-court ventures are received. Windhorst’s comments and the ensuing fan backlash reveal the deep passions fans hold for these athletes, not only as players but as personalities shaping cultural narratives.
With both stars continuing to expand their footprints in media and entertainment, audiences can expect ongoing comparisons between their projects. How this rivalry influences future collaborations or productions remains to be seen, but it clearly plays a role in shaping public perception of their legacies.
Brian Windhorst (@WindhorstESPN) praises Steph Curry's GOAT Movie:
"I went with my son's basketball team to see The GOAT movie last weekend, Steph Curry's movie . . . awesome, awesome . . . with all due to respect to Space Jam 2, GOAT is the goat🐐, that's all I'm going to say" pic.twitter.com/y55tcPzFGr
— Chef (@CurryForGame) February 27, 2026
Windhorst finally off that Lbj tip, looks good on him
— Rando 🏆 (@amallgoodman) February 27, 2026
What was the point of of even bringing that up ppl just taking shots at Bron for zero reason
— Tone (@Anthony01032074) February 27, 2026
WTF was the point of bringing up Space Jam 2 other than to get views
This is EXACTLY why Bron made it clear that he doesn’t know this fat fuck… This planet made a CAREER of pretending to be the LeBron whisperer & now he’s acting like Stephen A, FOH fats pic.twitter.com/78IvD5znqO
— Barry Spike 🎙 (@SpikeReeds) February 27, 2026
Windy off the Klutch payroll forreal forreal https://t.co/AYDBxmNJ1l
— L (@LENism) February 27, 2026
