Malcolm D. Lee replaces Terence Nance as director of 'Space Jam 2' starring LeBron James

It's not the first time someone leading a group starring LeBron James departs prior to the end goal (apologies, David Blatt). Except this time, the final product will come to fruition on the big screen instead of the basketball court. 

Malcolm D. Lee has assumed the director's chair for the highly anticipated "Space Jam 2," which will have James in the leading role and supported by a cast of NBA and WNBA players, along with the lovable Loony Tunes characters. The production parted with original director Terence Nance after the studio and he could not agree on the creative vision, according to Deadline. 

Lee, 49, is a cousin of acclaimed director/producer Spike Lee and is best known for directing "The Best Man" (1999), "Undercover Brother" (2002), "Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins" (2008) and "Girls Trip" (2017). 

In addition to starring, James is an executive producer under his SpringHill Entertainment label, as is his manager Maverick Carter. Last week, Deadline reported that actor Don Cheadle will team up with James in the film. 

"Space Jam 2" is expected to premiere on July 16, 2021. 

The original "Space Jam" starred Michael Jordan and grossed $230 million globally.