The NBA’s slam dunk contest could be set for an electrifying resurgence, as former two-time champion Zach LaVine teased a potential return following Mac McClung’s historic third consecutive victory on Saturday night. McClung’s jaw-dropping performance, which included leaping over a Kia sedan, ignited a flurry of responses from NBA stars, with Ja Morant and Giannis Antetokounmpo expressing interest in participating in future contests.
Morant, the high-flying Memphis Grizzlies guard, took to social media to declare that McClung’s display “might make me decide to dunk.” He then extended an invitation to LaVine and Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon, who engaged in an epic duel with LaVine in the 2016 dunk contest. LaVine emerged victorious that year, securing his second straight title, but has not participated in the event since.
LaVine Hints at a Comeback
However, LaVine’s reply to Morant’s post on Sunday suggests that the Sacramento Kings guard may be ready to lace up his sneakers once again:
Thinking I might have too again….
Zach LaVine, via X (formerly Twitter)
The prospect of LaVine’s return has sent shockwaves through the basketball community, as fans eagerly anticipate the possibility of witnessing another legendary showdown. LaVine’s gravity-defying athleticism and creativity have made him one of the most exciting dunkers in NBA history, and his presence would undoubtedly elevate the contest to new heights.
Antetokounmpo Joins the Fray
Not to be outdone, Milwaukee Bucks superstar and two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo also expressed interest in participating, telling Morant that if the Grizzlies guard entered the contest, he would follow suit. Antetokounmpo even joked about his preparation, stating:
I just gotta to warm up for 3 weeks prior to the contest
Giannis Antetokounmpo, via X (formerly Twitter)
While Antetokounmpo’s dunking prowess is well-known, he has only competed in the dunk contest once, failing to advance to the final round in 2015. However, his incredible athleticism and competitive spirit would undoubtedly make him a formidable contender.
McClung Flattered, Open to Challengers
As for McClung, the newly crowned three-time champion expressed his appreciation for the interest shown by Morant and Antetokounmpo. While he had considered retiring from the contest after this year’s victory, he left the door open for a potential return:
I was probably thinking about hanging it up after this one, but I never want to say never.
Mac McClung, following his 2025 NBA Slam Dunk Contest victory
The NBA’s slam dunk contest has long been a fan favorite, showcasing the league’s most athletic and creative players. With the potential return of Zach LaVine and the interest expressed by Ja Morant and Giannis Antetokounmpo, the stage is set for an unforgettable showdown that could rival the greatest contests in the event’s storied history.
As fans eagerly await official announcements regarding next year’s participants, one thing is certain: the 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest has the potential to be a spectacle unlike any other, featuring a star-studded lineup of the league’s most electrifying dunkers. Will LaVine reclaim his throne, or will Morant, Antetokounmpo, or McClung emerge victorious? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure—basketball fans are in for a treat.
