Mac McClung of the Orlando Magic, a two-way player, shocked everyone by securing a three-peat in the AT&T Slam Dunk Contest at All-Star Weekend. McClung, who was up against rookies Stephon castle (San Antonio Spurs), Matas buzelis(Chicago Bulls), and second-year Andre Jackson Jr. Many NBA analysts and fans shared on Twitter their opinions and comments about McClung’s win.
McClung’s Historic Achievement
McClung wanted to be the first to achieve a Slam Dunk Contest third consecutive title, even though he had less experience in game dunks than most of his opponents. McClung’s NBA career has consisted mainly of 10 day contracts and 2-way deals. According to observers, McClung hopes to use his Dunk Contest win as a springboard for a longer-term NBA contract.
It was his sheer will, creativity and athleticism that helped him win over the finalist Stephon.
The best moments and reactions from fans
NBA fans on all social media sites responded with passion to many of the exciting moments. The following is a summary of some key moments, reactions and highlights:
Stephon Castle Makes an Impressive Debut
Stephon castle, who just won the Castrol Rising Stars MVP, began his performance with a windmill 360. Kevin Garnett, Tracy McGrady and the talented judges praised Castle’s athleticism, creativity and talent.
Castle, who had a very strong performance, ultimately failed to unseat McClung. But some observers thought Castle’s talent was obvious.
Matas Buzelis’s Valiant Effort
Matas Büzelis, a 6-foot-10 wing from Lithuania, tried to perform a challenging slam between the legs below the rim. However, he failed to execute the maneuver and was eliminated during the first-round. Although the 6-foot-10 forward’s efforts were appreciated, his performance couldn’t compare to that of McClung or Castle.
Andre Jackson Jr.’s Struggles
Andre Jackson Jr. struggled early, failing his four first slam dunks before completing the two-handed flush. Some fans and analysts criticized his performance, questioning the quality of Slam Dunk Contest competitors in recent years. A Twitter user likened Jackson’s struggle to Kevin Huerter’s poor performance in the 3-Point Contest in 2023, which highlighted the high stakes and pressure of competing in such an environment. Jackson has been called the worst competitor in this contest.
McClung’s Defining Dunks
McClung stole all the attention with his gravity-defying and innovative dunks. McClung’s first, which was a jump over the Kia car’s highest point, reminded many of Blake Griffin’s famous 2011 dunk. However, observers felt that McClung had taken it to an entirely new level. After a failed first attempt, McClung nailed it on the second go, earning him a perfect score. The feat was lauded by fans for its creativity and his talent on social media. A reverse dunk was performed over a teammate.
The Final Showdown
McClung brought his A-game to the finals, as did Castle. Castle’s one-handed, between-the legs up-and down dunk was impressive. McClung nailed a complex two-ball dunk that involved a rotating teammate. Castle was awarded a perfect score on a dunk behind the back, however, McClung’s final dunking, in which he touched the rim, cemented his win and secured his place as a legend of Dunk Contest.
Analysis and Reactions
NBA analysts and fans took to Twitter to express their opinions following McClung’s win.
- Jerry Ferrara acknowledged that Stephon Castle “ran into an buzz saw” at McClung.
- Marc Stein stated that McClung’s run in the Dunk Contest would be studied and highlighted for many years.
- Keerthika uthayakumar remarked that McClung earned more from winning the Dunk Contest than playing NBA games.
- Aaron Gordon has been dubbed the greatest Dunk Contest participant in Magic’s history.
Mac McClung: What is Next?
McClung is facing a new challenge in his NBA career after winning the Dunk Contest for the third time. The Orlando Magic will he offer him a larger role in their team? Will he use his Dunk Contest victory to gain opportunities for other teams? Time will tell. But one thing’s for sure: Mac McClung is one of the best Dunk Contest competitors of all-time.