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Matas Buzelis Cuts 2025 NBA Slam Dunk Contest Appearance Short

Originally posted on On Tap Sports Net
By Alejandro Delgado | Last updated Feb 16, 2025 4:27 PM ET

As the 2025 All-Star Weekend approached, rookie standout Matas Buzelis made it clear that he was not just there to lose. Buzelis had even consulted former teammate and two-time Slam Dunk Contest champion Zach LaVine for advice on the event.

Matas Buzelis can (finally!) talk about the dunk contest. He said it’s an honor to be invited. Had been working with Zach LaVine on dunks for awhile before the trade on Sunday.

His plan is to surprise fans: “Two of these dunks, I don’t think anyone has seen.” pic.twitter.com/OpB9xt0nRB
— Julia Poe (@byjuliapoe) February 5, 2025

After an encouraging outing in the Rising Star Games, many were ready to see what Buzelis had in store for the contest. However, the dunks did not go as planned.

The rookie started the contest by attempting a dunk from behind the backboard and then bouncing the ball between his legs. The attempt seemed very promising, but after numerous attempts, Buzelis failed to connect. As every other contestant made their initial dunk, it was difficult to see Buzelis moving forward in the contest.

MATAS BUZELIS TRIED THIS INSANE DUNK… BUT COULDN’T GET IT DONE IN TIME ❌ pic.twitter.com/0LJE2WO5Z5
— Courtside Buzz (@CourtsideBuzzX) February 16, 2025

Buzelis opted for a safer approach with his second dunk of the first round, completing an up-and-under dunk assisted by a pass from the side of the backboard. If he had started with this dunk, he likely would have advanced to the second round.

Matas with the up-and-under reverse oop on the opposite side @ATT | @BuzelisMatas pic.twitter.com/UGob25FjmZ
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) February 16, 2025

Mac McClung went on to become the three-time Slam Dunk Champion as he electrified the crowd with his nostalgic dunk over the Kia.