Air Bud ( Also Known As: MVP (Most Valuable Pooch)) is a Comedy Drama film directed by Charles Martin Smith and written by Kevin DiCicco (character "Air Bud"), Paul Tamasy . It released on 1 August 1997 (USA) . The film stars Michael Jeter, Kevin Zegers, Wendy Makkena.A young boy and a talented stray dog with an amazing basketball playing ability become instant friends. Rebounding from his father's accidental death, 12-year-old Josh Framm moves with his family to the small town of Fernfield, Washington.