The NBA Slam Dunk Contest has been a fan favorite and a highlight of the All-Star weekend since its inception in 1984. It has showcased some of the most electrifying and gravity-defying moments in basketball history, with legends pushing the limits of athleticism and innovation.
History of Winners
Here is a list of notable NBA Slam Dunk Contest winners since 1984:
| Year | Winner |
|---|---|
| 1984 | Larry Nance |
| 1985 | Dominique Wilkins |
| 1986 | Spud Webb |
| 1987 | Michael Jordan |
| 1988 | Michael Jordan |
| 2000 | Vince Carter |
| 2006 | Nate Robinson |
| 2016 | Zach LaVine |
| 2023 | Mac McClung |
| 2024 | Mac McClung |
| 2025 | Mac McClung (TBD) |
NBA Dunk Contest, 2025
The excitement around the NBA Slam Dunk Contest continues to grow, especially with the recent event held during the All-Star Weekend in February 2025. This year’s contest featured an impressive lineup of participants, including:
- Mac McClung (Orlando Magic) – The reigning champion aiming for a three-peat.
- Stephon Castle (San Antonio Spurs) – A rising star making his Dunk Contest debut.
- Matas Buzelis (Chicago Bulls) – Known for his acrobatic style.
- Andre Jackson Jr. (Milwaukee Bucks) – A powerful dunker looking to make a mark.
Judges and Format
The judges for the 2025 contest included Hall of Famers Kevin Garnett and Tracy McGrady, along with former players Baron Davis and Jason Richardson. The format remained similar to previous years, with each participant showcasing their best dunks in multiple rounds.
Highlights
- Mac McClung kicked off the contest with a perfect score of 50.0 for his first dunk, impressing both fans and judges alike.
- Stephon Castle followed closely behind with a score of 47.2, showcasing his unique style.
- Matas Buzelis struggled with a score of 40.0 but still managed to entertain the crowd with his creativity.
- Andre Jackson Jr. earned a score of 43.8, demonstrating his power and finesse.
As the contest progressed, all eyes were on Mac McClung as he aimed to secure his third consecutive title in this prestigious event.
Iconic Moments
Some memorable moments in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest include:
- Michael Jordan’s Free-Throw Line Dunk (1988): Jordan’s leap from the free-throw line to secure his second consecutive title is arguably the most famous dunk in history.
- Vince Carter’s 2000 Performance: Carter’s display included a 360 windmill, between-the-legs alley-oop, and the “elbow in the rim” dunk.
- The LaVine vs. Gordon Rivalry (2016): Zach LaVine and Aaron Gordon had an unforgettable showdown that is still talked about today.
The excitement surrounding this year’s contest proves that the NBA Slam Dunk Contest continues to be a platform for showcasing incredible talent and creativity.
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