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Mac McClung Addresses Decision to Skip NBA Dunk Contest
Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Mac McClung Addresses Decision to Skip NBA Dunk Contest

Originally posted on Athlon Sports  |  By Rolly Gacelo  |  Last updated Feb 12, 2026 11:23 PM ET

Mac McClung recently showed off an incredible dunk in the G-League where he plays for the Chicago Bulls' affiliate Windy City Bulls. The 6'2 guard left the crowd in disbelief after a reverse slam off a pass by Yuki Kawamura.

That is the same type of dunk he has displayed in the last three editions of the NBA Slam Dunk Contest that he won convincingly. Unfortunately for fans, the Bulls' two-way player won't be participating this year.

The 2026 dunk competition will not feature the 27-year-old guard, as he chose to skip it. It was not a decision made out of haste as he revealed he prepared some dunks in case he changes his mind.

He ultimately decided not to participate after hearing that some players were hesitant to join if he were in it.

Chicago Bulls guard Mac Mcclung goes for the lay-upDan Hamilton-Imagn Images

"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," he said in an interview with HoopsHype.

He is skipping this year, but not completely shutting down the possibility of returning.

"I don't know if it'll ever be in my future or not, but I've definitely enjoyed it these last three years."

With McClung and his creative slams, pressure is on the chosen players to deliver. Confirmed participants include Carter Bryant of the San Antonio Spurs , Jaxson Hayes of the Los Angeles Lakers , Keshad Johnson of the Miami Heat , and Jase Richardson of the Orlando Magic.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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