The film follows basketball legend Michael Jordan (played by himself) during his brief retirement from the NBA, when he decides to pursue a career in baseball. Meanwhile, in outer space, the evil alien theme park owner Swackhammer (voiced by Danny DeVito) seeks to boost attendance by abducting the Looney Tunes characters and forcing them to entertain his customers.
When Bugs Bunny (voiced by himself) and the other Looney Tunes characters challenge Swackhammer to a basketball game to win their freedom, Swackhammer enlists the help of his minions, the Monstars, who steal the basketball talents of NBA players Charles Barkley, Patrick Ewing, Muggsy Bogues, Larry Johnson, and Shawn Bradley.
With the fate of the Looney Tunes on the line, Bugs Bunny recruits Michael Jordan to help lead their team, known as the Tune Squad, in a high-stakes basketball game against the Monstars. Michael reluctantly agrees, and together with the Looney Tunes characters, they train rigorously to prepare for the game.
As the game begins, the Monstars quickly gain the upper hand, using their stolen basketball talents to dominate the court. However, with Michael’s leadership and the Looney Tunes’ unconventional tactics, the Tune Squad begins to make a comeback.
In the final moments of the game, with the score tied, Michael performs a dramatic slam dunk from half-court, stretching his arm to an incredible length to secure the winning basket. The Tune Squad emerges victorious, defeating the Monstars and saving the Looney Tunes from a lifetime of captivity.
With the Monstars defeated and the Looney Tunes characters freed, Michael decides to return to basketball, reclaiming his place in the NBA. The film ends with Michael and the Looney Tunes bidding farewell as they part ways, having formed an unlikely bond and shared an unforgettable adventure.
“Space Jam” is praised for its blend of live-action and animation, its nostalgic appeal for both basketball fans and Looney Tunes enthusiasts, and its memorable soundtrack featuring the hit song “I Believe I Can Fly” by R. Kelly. It has become a beloved cult classic and remains a favorite among audiences of all ages.