NBA slam dunk contest winner Mac McClung may be prepared to leave the event for good—but not quite.
The 26-year-old high flyer said that although he's pleased with his dunk contest résumé, fans are making it hard for him to remain retired.
Fans Want McClung Back for Another Title Defense
After throwing down electrifying dunks during the contest, McClung became a crowd favorite once again. But though he is enjoying the immense adoration, he is not very certain about getting back to the contest in 2026, TMZ Sports reports.
"The people haven't really allowed me to get too much peace with it," McClung said. "They're already thinking about next year. I'm pretty content where I am, but you know, I never say never."
With that comment, McClung made it possible that he could be back, particularly with NBA All-Stars considering entering the contest.
NBA Stars Might Make 2026 Dunk Contest A Must-View
The 2026 dunk contest is already creating excitement with top stars Ja Morant, Zach LaVine, and Aaron Gordon considering it. Their presence could make the contest next year one of the most competitive ones in recent memory.
McClung himself is looking forward to the chance to spot those big names competing.
"I like the contest, and I believe it merits those guys," he said. "It's such a pretty weekend. I'd enjoy seeing them out there."
Will McClung Come Back to Defend His Title?
Though Mac McClung is being coy, the increasing hype for the 2026 dunk contest may change his mind. With superstars Morant and LaVine entering the competition, McClung may feel obligated to show his stuff against the crème de la crème.
If McClung chooses to come back, the 2026 dunk contest might be an all-time classic.
In another report by TalkSport, McClung's NBA career earnings were tripled after he won the slam dunk contest. The Orland Magic guard pulled off a retro move by jumping on top of the silver Kia sedan.
If you had watched the golden days of Blake Griffin, you would know immediately that this was a reference to the 2011 dunk.
McClung won $310,000 for his recent dunk contest win.
Elsewhere, Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving shares his plans of leaving Team USA to hop on a new national team in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
According to Sports World News, the 32-year-old point guard said that he wants to represent Australia in the next Olympics. The Australian Boomers were a known powerhouse in the Asia Pacific region. If Irving plays in the Aussie squad, he won't be the lone NBA player to participate.
Some known NBA cagers who will join the Boomers include Josh Green, Ben Simmons, Josh Giddey, Dyson Daniels, Patty Mills, and Dante Exum.
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