Mac Clung: The King of the Slam Dunk Contest
In the heart of San Francisco, at the Chase Center, Mac Clung once again stole the show at the 2025 NBA All-Star AT&T Slam Dunk Contest. While Clung may not have an extensive NBA career—currently holding a two-way contract with Orlando and having played only five NBA minutes this season—he has undeniably secured his place in basketball history. Clung’s performance on Saturday night made him the first player in NBA history to win the Dunk Contest three consecutive years, a feat that even legends like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and three-time winner Nate Robinson could not achieve.
A Love for the Contest
Clung’s dominance in the Dunk Contest is as much a product of his athleticism as it is of his genuine passion for the event. "I think the biggest thing is I genuinely love this contest, and I’m very honored to be here and just very appreciative," Clung expressed. His enthusiasm and dedication to the contest are evident in his performances, which have consistently wowed the crowd and the judges. This year, he once again delivered, receiving four perfect scores in a row, solidifying his reign as the reigning dunk champion.
Elevating the Energy
All-Star Saturday night often has a mixed energy, sometimes feeling a bit flat despite the high caliber of talent on display. However, Clung changed the atmosphere the moment he stepped onto the court. His first dunk, a re-creation of Blake Griffin’s iconic dunk over a car, immediately electrified the Chase Center. The crowd, which had been relatively subdued, came to life as Clung’s energy and creativity took center stage. His second dunk, which involved grabbing one ball from a man spinning on a hoverboard and the other from the rim, earned him another perfect score of 50. Clung’s dunks are not just about athleticism; they are a blend of innovation and showmanship that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.
A Close Competitor
San Antonio’s Stephon Castle, a Spurs rookie, put up a strong challenge. Castle’s dunks were impressive and, in any other year, might have been enough to win. However, he faced the unfortunate timing of competing against a dunker who has set the bar exceptionally high. Despite finishing in second place, Castle’s performance was commendable. "I mean, [McClung’s] dunks are crazy. I would give all his dunks 50, too, but I feel like he earned it and he did a great job," Castle said. The other competitors, Matas Buzelis and Andre Jackson Jr., also showcased their skills but were eliminated in the first round.
The Final Showstopper
For his final dunk of the night, Clung saved the best for last. He jumped over 6’11" Evan Mobley, who was standing on a board that raised him about five inches. Clung not only cleared Mobley but also tapped the front of the rim before slamming the ball through. It was a jaw-dropping performance that left the audience in awe. Clung’s ability to combine height, precision, and creativity in his dunks makes him a standout talent. "It’s just wild to see—and it’s inspiring other big name players who hint they may jump into the Dunk Contest down the line," observed one commentator.
Beyond Dunking
Despite his success in the Dunk Contest, Clung’s journey in the NBA has been challenging. He is the reigning G-League MVP and now a three-time Dunk Contest champion, yet he has yet to secure a permanent spot in the league. "I love hooping more than I love dunking," Clung said. "I really just am at peace with that, that I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be, and I’m going to keep applying pressure [to get into the NBA], for sure." Clung’s resilience and positive attitude are as inspiring as his dunks, reminding everyone that success is a journey, and sometimes the path to it is just as important as the destination.
A Legacy in the Making
Mac Clung’s dominance in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest has etched his name in the annals of basketball history. Whether or not he eventually secures a permanent spot in the NBA, his impact on the Dunk Contest is undeniable. Clung’s performances have not only entertained but have also pushed the boundaries of what is possible in the contest, inspiring the next generation of dunkers. For now, Clung owns the Slam Dunk Contest, and his legacy as a dunker is secure.
