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 with his explosive style and fearless approach to the rim. Joining him is Stephon Castle, a rookie guard from the San Antonio Spurs, who has been turning heads with his agility and flair.
Representing the Milwaukee Bucks is guard Andre Jackson Jr. Known for his high-flying antics, Jackson Jr. is sure to bring some serious competition to the table. 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 fans are eager to see if he can pull off a three-peat.
The Slam Dunk Contest has always been a highlight of the NBA All-Star Weekend, offering a platform for players to showcase their creativity and athleticism. Over the years, it has given us unforgettable moments that have become part of basketball lore. Who can forget Dwight Howard donning a Superman cape or Gerald Green’s candle-blowing dunk? These are the kinds of performances that keep fans talking 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 in 2023, making his dunk contest debut with a series of gravity-defying slams that left the audience in awe. Known for going viral with his high school dunks, McClung didn’t disappoint. He executed a reverse backboard tap slam by jumping over two people, followed by a two-hand 360 reverse windmill, and a reverse double double-pump dunk. His tribute to his high school career with a 360-plus slam sealed his first dunk contest victory, setting the stage for his eventual two-peat.
2016, Toronto
The 2016 contest was a showdown for the ages between Aaron Gordon and Zach LaVine. Gordon’s innovative 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 competitors earned perfect scores in three of the four championship rounds, but it was LaVine’s between-the-legs dunk from the free throw line that clinched the win.
2000, Oakland
After a year without an All-Star Weekend due to a lockout, the NBA returned with a bang in 2000. Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady lit up the court with their spectacular dunks. Carter’s “it’s over” dunk, where he put the ball between his legs with the help of McGrady, and his elbow-in-the-rim dunk are still talked about today. Carter’s 98 points secured his victory over Steve Francis and McGrady.
1997, Cleveland
At just 18 years old, Kobe Bryant made history as the youngest player to win a dunk contest. Despite missing two dunks, his between-the-legs slam earned him a score of 49, etching his name in the record books.
1988, Chicago
Michael Jordan, representing the Chicago Bulls, 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 1988 Slam Dunk Contest title.
1986, Dallas
Standing at just 5-foot-7, Spud Webb defied the odds to win the contest against his teammate and reigning champion, Dominique Wilkins. Webb’s perfect dunks put pressure on Wilkins, who ultimately finished second.
1976, Denver
The first professional dunk contest, held by the ABA, featured Julius Erving’s iconic free throw line dunk. Erving’s performance set the standard for future contests and remains a defining moment in dunk contest history.
- 1976: Julius Erving’s free throw line dunk
- 1986: Spud Webb’s underdog victory
- 1988: Michael Jordan’s iconic win
- 1997: Kobe Bryant’s record-setting performance
- 2000: Vince Carter’s unforgettable showcase
- 2016: The epic duel between Aaron Gordon and Zach LaVine
- 2023: Mac McClung’s sensational debut
As we gear up for the 2025 contest, the anticipation is palpable. Will Mac McClung continue his reign, or will a new champion emerge? One thing is for sure: the Slam Dunk Contest never fails to deliver unforgettable moments.
Originally Written by: Kalan Hooks
