Mac McClung's Decision to Skip Dunk Contest

Chicago Bulls guard Mac McClung has announced that he will not participate in the upcoming 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, a competition he has dominated for the past three years. After clinching the title consecutively, he has now decided to take a step back, expressing that sometimes, it’s best to let others shine.

A Three-Time Champion

McClung's impressive performance over the last three years has placed him in a league of his own within the NBA. Accomplishing the feat of winning the Slam Dunk Contest three times puts him alongside former standout Nate Robinson, marking them as the only players in the history of the league to achieve such an honor. However, McClung noted that reaching a fourth victory was uncertain, hinting at his retirement from the competition.

Communication with Friends and Coaches

In an interview with HoopsHype's Cyro Asseo, McClung reflected on the conversations that led to his decision. "Originally, I told everybody I was done," he said, revealing that he had intended to retire from the contest after last year's event. Despite his friends and teammates encouraging him to reconsider, the final decision hinged on the dynamics of participation from others. He stated, "I think there was just back and forth of us being like this, and then they were calling me, being like 'People didn't want to do it if I was doing it'..." Ultimately, he felt that stepping aside would be better for this year's event.

Perfect Scores but a Hesitant Future

As McClung prepared for the Dunk Contest, he felt a mixture of hesitation regarding both participation and future involvement. He stated, "I don’t know if it’ll ever be in my future or not, but I’ve definitely enjoyed it these last three years." His performances last year were nothing short of remarkable. In the 2025 NBA Dunk Contest, he earned perfect scores for all four of his dunks, showcasing not just talent but also remarkable creativity and precision.

All-Star Festivities Await

Even though McClung is skipping the Dunk Contest, he will not be absent from NBA All-Star weekend. He has been selected as a replacement for the Rising Stars challenge, a competitive showcase featuring promising young talent. He will represent Team Austin, a selection made up of players who have competed in G League games this season, reflecting his solid performance and enduring potential in the league.

Upcoming Dunk Contest Competitors

The 2026 Slam Dunk Contest entrants include notable players such as Jaxson Hayes from the Los Angeles Lakers, Carter Bryant of the San Antonio Spurs, Jase Richardson representing the Orlando Magic, and Keshad Johnson of the Miami Heat. Each of these athletes brings a unique style to the contest, which will take place on Saturday. With McClung's absence, admirers of the dunking exhibition will be keen to see who emerges victorious this year.

Conclusion: The Legacy of a Dunking Dynamo

As Mac McClung takes a step back from the spotlight of the NBA Slam Dunk Contest, his legacy as a three-time champion remains intact. This decision showcases his maturity and understanding of the evolving dynamics of competitive sports — stepping aside so that newer talents can showcase their skills. While McClung leaves the Dunk Contest for now, his continued presence in the league through the Rising Stars contest assures fans that they will not have to wait long to see him compete at high levels again. The excitement surrounding the event remains palpable, as the NBA kingdom eagerly awaits to see who can fill the impressive shoes left by McClung in this year’s contest.