‘Air Bud’ Star Dies Of Cancer

Buddy, the basketball-playing pooch who starred in the Disney movie “Air Bud,” has died of cancer.

Buddy’s death Tuesday came six months after the golden retriever had his leg amputated because of synovial cell sarcoma, a rare form of cancer. He died in his sleep at his San Diego home, Disney said.

“Air Bud,” released last summer, showcased Buddy’s ability to make baskets by hitting the ball with his nose. Even after the amputation of his right rear leg, Buddy was still able to shoot hoops, owner Kevin DiCicco said.

A stray believed to have been between 9 and 10 years old, Buddy also was adept at stopping soccer and hockey goals and catching baseballs. In addition to the movie, Buddy appeared on “America’s Funniest Home Videos” and “Full House.”