Mac McClung’s anticipation is palpable as he prepares to step onto the court for the 2025 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, aiming for the historic milestone of winning three consecutive titles. This Saturday at the NBA All-Star Weekend, held in San Francisco, McClung, the two-time defending champion and the only G League player to capture the Dunk Contest title twice, hopes to etch his name even more deeply in NBA history.
Following two stellar performances where he wowed audiences and judges alike, McClung carries the pressure to prove he can deliver yet again. His previous wins, achieved through innovative and stunning dunks, revitalized interest in the annual spectacle, which had been waning as previous stars, like Zach LaVine and Aaron Gordon, chose not to participate.
Reflecting on his upcoming challenge, McClung stated, "I’m going to try my best. I’m nervous but super excited." Speaking with Taylor Rooks on NBA TV before the Rising Stars game Friday night, he acknowledged how nerves could motivate him to tap even harder during his preparation. "I think it just makes me want to prepare more," he noted, emphasizing his readiness to perform.
Initially considering his dunk contest days behind him after his first two victories, McClung has since dedicated countless hours to designing new dunks for this year’s contest. He joked about feeling like "an imposter" when receiving adoration from fans. Yet his humble demeanor is genuine. "It’s really surreal. I’m grateful to be part of this," he reflected, alluding to the long-standing legacy of great dunkers, which includes past legends like Vince Carter, whose memorable performances haunt the venue this weekend.
Competing against McClung are formidable challengers: Matas Buzelis from the Chicago Bulls, Stephon Castle of the San Antonio Spurs, and Milwaukee Bucks’ Andre Jackson Jr. Each contestant brings their own hype, with Buzelis vowing to push the limits. "I’m not going there to lose," he asserted, believing the atmosphere would fuel his creativity. Jackson and Castle share similar sentiments, acknowledging their nerves but eager to take part.
For McClung, coming back for another dunk contest is more than just winning; it's about the craft, the audience, and lifting the spirits of those who watch. He recalled how his previous performances not only spotlighted his skills on the court but also inspired many young athletes to pursue their dreams. "Winning the Dunk Contest has breathed life back to the event. It’s important for something like this to exist where creativity flourishes," he said.
Reflecting on his recent basketball career, McClung has spent most of his time honing his craft with the Osceola Magic of the G League, where he averaged 24.5 points per game earlier this season and was immortalized as the G League MVP. Despite the recognition, he hasn’t forgotten the struggles many G League players face trying to secure their footing in the NBA. McClung believes talented players often go unnoticed until they finally receive their opportunities.
"The easy answer is opportunity. There’s many G League guys who can play in the league. I really have faith in God, and believe I’m always right where I’m supposed to be," he asserted. His persistence and perseverance have always driven him, as someone who finds pride not just in dunking but also as being known as one of basketball's competitors.
Now, with all eyes upon him, McClung stands at the crossroads of professional ambition and creative expression. If he emerges victorious this year, he would not only set the record straight as the first player to achieve three consecutive wins but would also tie the legendary Nate Robinson for the most overall wins in the competition—an aspiration he considers monumental.
"It’d be special. It’d be really special," McClung mused about the concept of winning again. His vision extends beyond personal achievements, as he aims to leave behind not just slam dunks but also legacy—one centered on determination and creativity.
While McClung's immediate goal is the Dunk Contest title, he remains hungry for more. Concerning his future, he said, "The dream remains the NBA, and I’m not ready to give up on it." Whether he returns next season as the reigning champion or pursues new avenues, McClung’s narrative continues, transcending his dunking fame and leaving everyone eager to see what he accomplishes next.