No McClung, No Problem: NBA Unveils New Dunk Contest Lineup

Last Updated:February 08, 2026, 14:57 IST

Jaxson Hayes, Carter Bryant, Keshad Johnson, and Jase Richardson headline the 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest in Los Angeles.

The NBA Slam Dunk Contest is getting a fresh coat of paint and a lot of new bounce.

Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes headlines a group of four newcomers announced Saturday for next week’s All-Star festivities in Los Angeles. Hayes will be joined by San Antonio rookie Carter Bryant, Miami Heat forward Keshad Johnson, and Orlando Magic rookie Jase Richardson — yes, the son of two-time dunk champion Jason Richardson.

The contest tips off February 14 at the home of the LA Clippers and will stick to the classic two-round format. Judges will score each dunk, with the top two performers advancing to the final for a shot at the crown.

Hayes, a 7-footer in his seventh NBA season and third with the Lakers, brings size and intrigue. He’s been in the headlines recently — not just for his hops, but for a one-game suspension earlier this month after shoving a Wizards mascot. Now, he’ll try to let his dunks do the talking.

Notably absent is Chicago guard Mac McClung, who made history by winning the contest three straight years. McClung will instead suit up for the Rising Stars game, replacing the injured David Jones Garcia.

The NBA also confirmed the return of the Shooting Stars competition, back for the first time since 2015.

The revamped format features two active NBA players and a retired legend per team, with squads led by names like Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, Scottie Barnes, and Ron Harper Sr.

(with AFP inputs)

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