Mac McClung Has Single-Handedly Saved the NBA Dunk Contest

The NBA Dunk Contest was on life support just a couple of years ago. What was once the highlight of All-Star Weekend had become an afterthought, with fans tuning in out of habit more than excitement. Subpar performances, a lack of star power, and uninspired dunks had turned the once-iconic event into a snooze fest. But then came Mac McClung. And in 2025, the 26-year-old delivered a performance for the ages, officially resurrecting the Dunk Contest and reminding everyone why we fell in love with it in the first place.

On Saturday night, McClung made history, becoming the first player ever to win three consecutive NBA Dunk Contests — an unconventional 3-peat that even legends like Michael Jordan, Dominique Wilkins, and Vince Carter never achieved. But here's the kicker: McClung doesn't even play in the NBA. He’s a member of the Orlando Magic's G-League affiliate team, the Osceola Magic. While he might not have the skills to crack an NBA roster, when it comes to dunking, he's in a league of his own. And after his latest jaw-dropping performance, many are already calling him the greatest dunker of all time. 

From Relative Unknown to Dunk Contest Savior 

Two years ago, if you mentioned Mac McClung in basketball circles, you'd likely get a few blank stares. Sure, he was a high school mixtape sensation, but his name carried little weight at the professional level. Meanwhile, the Dunk Contest was in desperate need of a hero — someone to bring back the creativity, showmanship, and pure athleticism that made it legendary. Enter McClung. The 26-year-old G-Leaguer hasn’t just revived the contest; he’s made it more entertaining than the All-Star Game itself. His performance this year wasn’t just good; it was legendary.  

McClung wasted no time making a statement. On his very first attempt, he went for a dunk that instantly brought the crowd to its feet. He tried to dunk over a KIA — yes, a car. While Blake Griffin famously dunked over a car in 2011, he cleared only the hood. McClung? He aimed for the roof. Although he missed his first attempt, he nailed the second, soaring completely over the car and slamming it home for a perfect 50. The arena erupted. Even Giannis Antetokounmpo, who was sitting courtside, was left speechless. 

If that wasn't impressive enough, McClung’s third attempt took creativity to new heights. He dunked two balls at once — a feat that would be impressive on its own — but he added an extra twist. The second ball was held by a person who was spinning, making the timing and precision even more ridiculous. Another perfect 50. For his last dunk, McClung brought out Cleveland Cavaliers' seven-footer Evan Mobley. He then proceeded to jump clean over Mobley, touch the rim with the ball mid-air, and then finish the dunk with authority. The judges didn’t even need time to deliberate — another perfect 50. 

Reactions From Around the League 

McClung’s performance didn’t just impress the fans — NBA players couldn’t stop talking about it either. Social media exploded as stars weighed in. Ja Morant, one of the most electrifying dunkers in the league and someone fans have been begging to see in the Dunk Contest, tweeted, "Mac might make me decide to dunk." Giannis Antetokounmpo, who witnessed the show live, responded to Morant with, "If you do it, I’ll do it with you." 

And that wasn't all. Aaron Gordon, who many believe should've won the Dunk Contest in 2016, posted a cryptic thinking emoji with a side-eye. Zach LaVine, his rival from that legendary contest, replied, "Last Dance?"  

The prospect of a 2026 Dunk Contest featuring Mac McClung, Ja Morant, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Aaron Gordon, and Zach LaVine sent fans into a frenzy. The thought of these high-flyers going head-to-head has already generated more buzz than the All-Star Game itself. 

The Dunk Contest is Back — Thanks to One Man 

Just a few years ago, the Dunk Contest was considered dead. Fans were disengaged, and players didn’t care to participate. But thanks to Mac McClung, the event has undergone a full-blown resurrection. His creativity, athleticism, and pure love for the craft have reignited the excitement that once defined the Dunk Contest. So, Mac McClung, take a bow. You've not only saved the Dunk Contest — you've elevated it to new heights. And if the rumored 2026 lineup comes to life, we'll all have you to thank for what might be the greatest Dunk Contest of all time. 

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