2026 NBA Slam Dunk, Shooting Stars Competitors Announced

New faces to compete in dunk contest, while Shooting Stars Challenge returns after 11-year hiatus

Feb. 7, 2026 at 1:47pm

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The NBA has revealed the participants for the 2026 Slam Dunk competition and Shooting Stars Challenge at NBA All-Star Weekend. The dunk contest will feature four newcomers, including Chicago Bulls two-way player Mac McClung, who has won the last three competitions but declined to go for a fourth title. The Shooting Stars Challenge, which features two current players and a 'Legend' connected by a common theme, is returning to All-Star weekend for the first time since 2015.

Why it matters

The Slam Dunk contest is one of the most anticipated events of NBA All-Star Weekend, showcasing the league's most athletic and creative players. The return of the Shooting Stars Challenge adds another layer of excitement and nostalgia to the festivities. These events help drive fan engagement and interest in the NBA's marquee midseason showcase.

The details

In the Slam Dunk competition, Jaxson Hayes of the Los Angeles Lakers and Jase Richardson, a rookie guard with the Chicago Bulls, will be among the four newcomers competing for the title. Hayes is attempting to become the first seven-footer to win the contest, while Richardson has dunk contest royalty in his blood as the son of former champion Jason Richardson. The Shooting Stars Challenge will feature teams of two current players and one 'Legend' connected by a common theme, such as college alma mater or family ties.

  • The 2026 NBA Slam Dunk competition and Shooting Stars Challenge will take place on Saturday, Feb. 14, at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California.
  • The participants for the 3-point shooting contest at NBA All-Star Weekend have not yet been revealed.

The players

Mac McClung

A two-way player for the Chicago Bulls who has won the last three NBA Slam Dunk competitions but declined to defend his title this year.

Jaxson Hayes

A center for the Los Angeles Lakers who is attempting to become the first seven-footer to win the NBA Slam Dunk contest.

Jase Richardson

A rookie guard for the Chicago Bulls whose father, Jason Richardson, won the NBA Slam Dunk competition in 2003 and 2004.

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What’s next

The league has not revealed the participants in the 3-point shooting contest at NBA All-Star Weekend.

The takeaway

The 2026 NBA Slam Dunk competition and Shooting Stars Challenge will feature a mix of new faces and returning stars, adding to the excitement and anticipation of NBA All-Star Weekend. The dunk contest, in particular, will be closely watched as players look to make their mark and potentially join the ranks of the event's all-time greats.