The story of the original 1996 film Space Jam is a fictionalized account of the time between Michael Jordan 's 1993 retirement and 1995 return to the NBA . In the film, the enlist Jordan’s help to win a high-stakes basketball match against the Monstars —a group of aliens who have stolen the talents of several NBA stars to enslave the Tunes as attractions for an intergalactic amusement park.
: In outer space, the failing amusement park Moron Mountain needs new attractions. Its owner, Mr. Swackhammer, sends five small aliens called the Nerdlucks to capture the Looney Tunes. Space Jam
: Bugs Bunny tricks the small aliens into a basketball game for the Tunes' freedom. However, the Nerdlucks travel to Earth and steal the "talent" of NBA stars like Charles Barkley , Patrick Ewing , and Muggsy Bogues , transforming into the hulking Monstars . The story of the original 1996 film Space
: During the climactic game, the Monstars play aggressively, but the Tune Squad uses "cartoon physics" and a motivational "secret stuff" (just water) to catch up. Its owner, Mr
: The Looney Tunes pull Michael Jordan into their world through a golf hole to lead the "Tune Squad". Joined by Lola Bunny , Jordan helps the ragtag team train for the ultimate showdown.