Anticipation Builds for the 2025 NBA AT&T Slam Dunk Contest

Anticipation Builds for the 2025 NBA AT&T Slam Dunk Contest

Basketball fans, get ready to be dazzled! This Saturday, the 2025 NBA AT&T Slam Dunk Contest is set to take center stage, featuring four of the most electrifying dunkers in the game today. The lineup is a mix of fresh talent and seasoned expertise, promising a night of jaw-dropping athleticism and creativity.

First up, we have Matas Buzelis, a rookie forward from the Chicago Bulls. Buzelis has already made waves in his debut season, and fans are eager to see what he brings to the dunk contest stage. Joining him is Stephon Castle, a rookie guard from the San Antonio Spurs, who is known for his explosive athleticism and flair.

Representing the Milwaukee Bucks is guard Andre Jackson Jr. Jackson Jr. has been a highlight reel in the making, and his participation adds an exciting dynamic to the competition. And let’s not forget the two-time defending champion, Mac McClung of the Osceola Magic, the G-League affiliate of the Orlando Magic. McClung’s previous performances have set a high bar, and he’s back to defend his title with even more gravity-defying moves.

The dunk contest has always been a platform for players to showcase their creativity and athleticism, and this year promises to be no different. While the star power may vary from year to year, the history of the competition is rich with unforgettable moments. Who can forget Dwight Howard’s Superman slam or Gerald Green’s candle-blowing dunk? These are the kinds of performances that linger in the minds of fans long after the event is over.

Memorable Dunk Contests Through the Years

Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the most iconic dunk contests in NBA history:

• 2023, Utah: Mac McClung burst onto the scene with a debut that left everyone in awe. Known for going viral with his high school dunks, McClung didn’t disappoint. He executed a series of jaw-dropping dunks, including jumping over two people for a reverse backboard tap slam and a two-hand 360 reverse windmill. His performance earned him multiple perfect scores and his first dunk contest trophy.
• 2016, Toronto: This contest is often remembered for the epic showdown between Aaron Gordon and Zach LaVine. Gordon’s use of the Magic’s mascot, Stuff the Magic Dragon, and LaVine’s free throw line alley-oop were just some of the highlights. Both dunkers earned perfect scores in three of the four championship rounds, with LaVine ultimately taking the win.
• 2000, Oakland: After a year without an All-Star Weekend, the NBA returned with a bang. Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady lit up the stage with their incredible dunks. Carter’s “it’s over” dunk, where he put the ball between his legs, remains one of the most iconic moments in dunk contest history.
• 1997, Cleveland: At just 18 years old, Kobe Bryant became the youngest player to win a dunk contest. Despite missing two dunks, his between-the-legs slam earned him a score of 49 and secured his place in the history books.
• 1988, Chicago: Michael Jordan, representing the home team, faced off against Dominique Wilkins in a legendary duel. Jordan’s free throw line dunk, complete with his signature tongue-out pose, earned him a perfect score and the title of 1988 Slam Dunk Contest champion.
• 1986, Dallas: Spud Webb, standing at just 5-foot-7, defied the odds to win against his taller competitors. His perfect dunks put pressure on Dominique Wilkins, leading to Webb’s unforgettable victory.
• 1976, Denver: The first professional dunk contest, held by the ABA, featured Julius Erving’s iconic free throw line dunk. This contest set the stage for the NBA’s future dunk competitions.

As we gear up for the 2025 contest, the anticipation is palpable. Will McClung secure a three-peat, or will a new champion emerge? One thing is for sure: the stage is set for another unforgettable night of high-flying action.