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.
28,000 Runs in 624 Innings: Virat Kohli Overtakes Sachin Tendulkar
January 12, 2026
Virat Kohli Overtakes Sachin Tendulkar | On Sunday, during the first ODI against New Zealand at the Kotambi International Stadium (BCA) in Vadodara, Virat Kohli achieved 28,000 international runs. He became the quickest player to reach the milestone, doing so in 624 innings. The former record was set by Sachin Tendulkar, who achieved the milestone in 644 innings. Kohli stepped
“I Don’t Feel Good About It”: Virat Kohli Calls Out Crowd Cheering Indian Wickets
January 12, 2026
Virat Kohli voiced his unease over fans celebrating Rohit Sharma’s dismissal, noting he witnessed similar behavior towards MS Dhoni and feels ‘uncomfortable with it’. Virat Kohli stated on Sunday (January 11) that he ‘doesn’t feel comfortable’ when the home fans cheer and celebrate an Indian player getting out, merely to witness the legend come to bat. The identical situation occurred
Where Did Daniil Medvedev Win His 22nd Career Title?
January 12, 2026
Daniil Medvedev triumphed at the Brisbane International, securing his 22nd career title in a distinct 22nd city. Pitbull may need to clear some space — tennis has a fresh Mr. Worldwide, and he’s called Daniil Medvedev. World No. 13 Medvedev began 2026 in impressive fashion, maneuvering and battling his way to the Brisbane International title and further enhancing his expanding
How Did Endrick Perform on His Lyon Debut? One Goal, One Statement
January 12, 2026
Endrick dazzled in his Lyon debut, netting the crucial goal against Lille in the Coupe de France and propelling Lyon to the round of 16. Endrick quickly caught France’s attention. On a chilly evening in northern France, the 19-year-old Brazilian scored on his debut for Lyon, appearing at the far post to secure a 2–1 Coupe de France victory against
Why Macclesfield vs Crystal Palace Will Be Remembered as the Greatest FA Cup Shock
January 11, 2026
Macclesfield shocked Palace 2-1, marking the first time a non-league team has knocked out FA Cup champions. The 117-place gulf is currently the biggest disparity ever bridged in FA Cup history. Sixth-tier Macclesfield FC achieved the most remarkable upset in the tournament’s history, eliminating defending champions Crystal Palace 2-1, causing a stir in English football. A non-league team had never
Who Won the United Cup Semi-Final Between Poland and USA?
January 11, 2026
Poland narrowly defeated the USA 2-1 in Sydney to secure a spot in the United Cup final, as Kawa and Zielinski clinched the win. Switzerland defeated Belgium 2-1, with Belinda Bencic in the lead. Also Read | How Did Macclesfield Beat Crystal Palace in the FA Cup? United Cup 2026: Poland Knock Out Defending Champions USA Poland secured their spot
How Did Macclesfield Beat Crystal Palace in the FA Cup?
January 11, 2026
John Rooney’s Macclesfield shocked Crystal Palace 2-1 in the FA Cup, resulting in Wayne Rooney feeling emotional and proud as his brother’s team achieved history at Moss Rose. Wayne Rooney struggled to hold back tears as his younger brother engineered one of the biggest surprises in FA Cup history. John Rooney’s Macclesfield, a mid-table team from the sixth division, shocked
Graeme Smith Wishes South Africa Can Beat India in Home T20 World Cup
January 11, 2026
Graeme Smith is optimistic that South Africa will triumph over India in the T20 World Cup final hosted at home, supporting SA20 as an ideal preparation and commending the increasing depth of the Proteas in white-ball cricket. South Africa ranks among the World Champions after they astonished Australia in the World Test Championship last year to claim the mace in
One Last Roar in Melbourne: Stan Wawrinka’s Possible Farewell Set for 2026 Australian Open
January 10, 2026
Stan “The Man” Wawrinka receives a wildcard for the 2026 Australian Open, signaling a potential goodbye at Melbourne Park, the site of his initial major victory. Stan “The Man” Wawrinka is returning to Melbourne, and this time it’s going to be impactful. Tennis Australia has officially granted the 40-year-old Swiss icon a wildcard for the Australian Open 2026, allowing one
How Soon Will Prabhas’ ‘The Raja Saab’ Hit Japanese Theatres?
January 9, 2026
Aiming to reach the large fan following of actor Prabhas in Japan, the team behind director Maruthi’s horror comedy ‘The Raja Saab’, starring actor Prabhas in the lead role, has announced their intention to launch the dubbed Japanese version of the film in Japan, three to six months after its release in India. During a pre-release event hosted by the