The NBA is giving its most iconic All-Star showcase a fresh identity in 2026. With new names, new energy, and a notable absence, the Slam Dunk Contest is set to deliver a different kind of spectacle in Los Angeles.
Who Is Competing in the 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest?
The NBA Slam Dunk Contest 2026 will feature four first-time participants:
- Jaxson Hayes – Los Angeles Lakers center
- Carter Bryant – San Antonio Spurs rookie
- Keshad Johnson – Miami Heat forward
- Jase Richardson – Orlando Magic rookie
Jase Richardson adds a legacy storyline to the event, following in the footsteps of his father, two-time dunk champion Jason Richardson.
When and Where Will the Contest Take Place?
The contest will be held on February 14 during NBA All-Star Weekend at the home of the LA Clippers in Los Angeles.
What Is the Format of the NBA Slam Dunk Contest?
The NBA is sticking with the traditional two-round format:
- Opening Round – All four players perform, with judges scoring each dunk
- Final Round – The top two scorers advance and compete for the title
This classic structure keeps the focus squarely on creativity, athleticism, and execution.
Why Is Jaxson Hayes a Key Headliner?
At 7 feet tall and now in his seventh NBA season, Jaxson Hayes brings size, experience, and intrigue. Currently in his third season with the Lakers, Hayes enters the contest shortly after serving a one-game suspension earlier this month following an incident involving a Wizards mascot.
Now, the spotlight shifts from controversy to competition, as Hayes looks to make a statement with his athletic ability on one of the NBA’s biggest stages.
Why Is Mac McClung Not Participating?
Chicago guard Mac McClung, who won the Slam Dunk Contest three consecutive times, will not defend his title in 2026.
Instead, McClung will participate in the Rising Stars game, where he replaces the injured David Jones Garcia. His absence guarantees a new dunk champion this year.
What Other Events Are Returning for NBA All-Star Weekend?
The NBA also confirmed the return of the Shooting Stars competition, marking its first appearance since 2015.
How Does the Shooting Stars Format Work?
Each team will include:
- Two active NBA players
- One retired NBA legend
Teams will be led by notable figures such as:
- Jalen Brunson
- Karl-Anthony Towns
- Scottie Barnes
- Ron Harper Sr.
The format blends current stars with NBA history, adding variety to All-Star festivities.
Why This Slam Dunk Contest Matters for the NBA
With no returning champion and a lineup full of newcomers, the NBA Slam Dunk Contest 2026 represents a reset—one that emphasizes discovery, unpredictability, and fresh narratives.
Los Angeles sets the stage, new faces take flight, and the NBA prepares to crown a brand-new dunk king.
✅ FAQ Block
Who is participating in the 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest?
The 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest features Jaxson Hayes, Carter Bryant, Keshad Johnson, and Jase Richardson as first-time participants.
When will the NBA Slam Dunk Contest 2026 take place?
The NBA Slam Dunk Contest will take place on February 14 during NBA All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles.
Where is the NBA Slam Dunk Contest being held?
The contest will be held at the home arena of the LA Clippers in Los Angeles.
What format is used for the NBA Slam Dunk Contest?
The NBA uses a two-round format where all four players compete in the opening round, and the top two scorers advance to the final round.
Why is Mac McClung not competing in the Slam Dunk Contest?
Mac McClung will not compete because he is participating in the Rising Stars game as a replacement for the injured David Jones Garcia.
Is the NBA Shooting Stars competition returning in 2026?
Yes, the NBA Shooting Stars competition is returning for the first time since 2015.
Quinton de Kock Equals Sachin & Rohit as He Smashes Seventh ODI Ton in India
December 6, 2025
In a high-stakes decider at Visakhapatnam on Saturday, Quinton de Kock delivered one of the finest ODI innings of his career, rising from a quiet series to rewrite multiple world records in a single knock. After scores of 8 and 0 in the first two ODIs of the India vs South Africa series, de Kock walked in for the final
India Vs South Africa 3rd ODI Live Updates:Kuldeep’s Four-Fer Turns The Match After De Kock’s Century
December 6, 2025
India Vs South Africa 3rd ODI Live Updates:India skipper KL Rahul celebrated briefly after successfully breaking his team’s long-standing bad luck with the toss. India won the toss and chose to field first. Washington Sundar has been sidelined, and Tilak Varma has been chosen As the India vs South Africa ODI series heads into a thrilling decider, the dew factor
India vs South Africa Series Decider: Dew Factor, Injuries & Momentum Set the Stage
December 6, 2025
As the India vs South Africa ODI series heads into a thrilling decider, the dew factor remains the biggest talking point. In both previous games, the chasing team came extremely close or crossed the finish line comfortably. This has been the trend across this part of the world, especially in evening matches.With dew expected again, the team batting second holds
Dhurandhar Movie Review: A Dark, Powerful & Emotionally Charged Saga of Espionage
December 5, 2025
In Dhurandhar, Ranveer Singh exhibits an unusual restraint, showcasing one of his best performances. The boiling frustration, anger, and sorrow in his gaze is unmistakable. Dhurandhar Movie Review: Aditya Dhar transformed modern patriotic narratives with Uri: The Surgical Strike. Now arrives Dhurandhar, his second feature film. At its finest, it can be characterized as a masterclass in crafting a deshbhakti
Dhurandhar: Ranveer Singh’s Fiercest Avatar Explodes in Aditya Dhar’s High-Voltage Thriller
December 5, 2025
Undoubtedly, Ranveer Singh has made a stunning comeback, demonstrating that he can take on any role or persona — and Dhurandhar is evidence of that. He is wild, cunning, and a ruthless killer who unexpectedly possesses a beating heart in Aditya Dhar’s lavish film that oscillates between a high-energy cross-border espionage tale and a gangster narrative. Why Dhurandhar Stands Out:
Dhurandhar Sets the Screen Ablaze: Early Reviews Praise Ranveer Singh’s Intensity
December 5, 2025
Dhurandhar Film Review And Rating News: Ranveer Singh’s movie features Sara Arjun, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal, Akshaye Khanna, and R Madhavan in key roles. Dhurandhar Film Review And Rating News: Ranveer Singh’s Movie has now premiered in cinemas, and initial critiques indicate it’s a ‘must-see’. The movie, featuring Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal, Akshaye Khanna, R Madhavan, and Sara Arjun in
Dhurandhar 1st Review: Ranveer Singh Delivers His ‘Most Intense’ Performance Yet
December 4, 2025
Dhurandhar Movie Review And Ratings: Starring Ranveer Singh in the lead role, Dhurandhar features Sara Arjun alongside him. The film is helmed by director Aditya Dhar. Ranveer Singh Exhibits ‘Most Powerful’ Performance In This ‘Compelling’ Film What Makes Dhurandhar Stand Out? Fans are counting down to the release of Ranveer Singh’s highly anticipated film, Dhurandhar, which premieres in theaters on
Mitchell Starc Rewrites History: Becomes Most Successful Left-Arm Test Pacer
December 4, 2025
Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has officially carved his name into cricket’s record books, surpassing the legendary Wasim Akram to become the most successful left-arm fast bowler in Test cricket. The landmark moment arrived at the Gabba on Day 1 of the second Ashes Test when Starc dismissed England’s Harry Brook, taking his tally past Akram’s iconic 414-wicket milestone. Mitchell
John Cena Set for Final WWE Match on December 14: Gunther vs LA Knight to Decide His Last Opponent
December 4, 2025
The countdown to an emotional moment in WWE history has officially begun. John Cena, one of the most iconic superstars of all time, is preparing to step inside the ring for the final time on December 14, and the world now knows who could stand across from him. After weeks of intense competition, the John Cena Last Time Is Now
Virat Kohli’s Back-to-Back Hundreds Push Him Toward Historic Milestone
December 3, 2025
In the second ODI against South Africa in Raipur, Indian cricket star Virat Kohli scored his second century in consecutive matches. The 37-year-old, who had previously netted 135 runs in the series opener in Ranchi, took only 90 balls to achieve this milestone. This marked his 53rd century in ODIs, further extending his record in the format. Virat Kohli Reaches