Three-time NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion Mac McClung shocked NBA fans by announcing he will not participate in this year’s competition.
According to a report from Hoops Hype, McClung revealed that other NBA players didn’t want to compete if he was involved.
He explained, “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’, and I thought it’s best if I just sit out this year and let it be, no matter what.”
This revelation left NBA fans both surprised and frustrated.
Many felt that McClung’s dominance had turned him into the “final boss” of the contest, discouraging others from entering.
On social media, reactions poured in.
@KelvinJ87984 commented, “So basically Mac McClung is the final boss of the Dunk Contest and everyone rage-quit Fair play to him for sitting this one out.”
So basically Mac McClung is the final boss of the Dunk Contest and everyone rage-quit Fair play to him for sitting this one out
— KelvinMindset (@KelvinJ87984) February 12, 2026
@BullzOverBearz added, “Jesus Christ NBA players are weak lol.”
And @OBTracksz wrote, “They don’t wanna lose to a g league player lol.”
With McClung sitting out, the AT&T Slam Dunk Contest will crown a new champion. This year’s field includes Carter Bryant of the San Antonio Spurs, Keshad Johnson of the Miami Heat, Jase Richardson of the Orlando Magic, and Jaxson Hayes from the Los Angeles Lakers.
While these athletes bring excitement, NBA fans believe McClung’s absence leaves a huge void in the competition.
“Should be in the NBA if you’re the dunk champion at least”: NBA fans welcome Mac McClung back in the league
A week before the NBA All-Star Weekend, Mac McClung has found his way back to the NBA after being signed by the Chicago Bull on a two-way contract according to Bleacher Report’s Jake Fischer.
This will be McClung’s second run with the Bulls, as he had a 10-day contract with them back in 2021. NBA fans were ecstatic to find out that he was given another chance by the organization following his exploits with their G-League counterparts.
@ScatterV1sion expressed, “Hope he does not get waived or put on G league again, should be in the NBA if you’re the NBA dunk champion at least.”
@castleheart, added, “This is a W. He deserves to play in the NBA fellas.”
On the lighter side, @betswithbrian joked, “over under 3.5 days until he’s waived?”
Whether he thrives with the Bulls or not, NBA fans continue to rally behind him, proving his impact goes far beyond the Slam Dunk Contest.
