Miami Heat's Keshad Johnson Wins 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest

The 24-year-old forward impressed the judges with his high-flying dunks, including leaping over rapper E-40.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Keshad Johnson of the Miami Heat won the 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest at NBA All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles. Johnson scored a total of 97.4 points in the final round, including a 49.6 on a between-the-legs dunk, to edge out Carter Braynt and claim the title. The contest featured four players who performed for a panel of five NBA legends as judges.

Why it matters

The Slam Dunk Contest is one of the marquee events of NBA All-Star Weekend, showcasing the league's most athletic and creative players. Johnson's victory continues the Miami Heat's strong history in the event, as he joins former champions Harold Miner and Derrick Jones Jr. as Heat players to win the contest.

The details

In the opening round, Johnson took the lead with 47.4 points after leaping over rapper E-40 during his dunk. Braynt scored 49.2 to advance to the finals. In the championship round, Johnson scored 49.6 on a smooth between-the-legs dunk, while Braynt replied with a perfect 50-point dunk. However, Johnson's final slam of 47.8 points gave him the overall victory with 97.4 total points.

  • The 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest took place on February 15, 2026 during NBA All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles.

The players

Keshad Johnson

A 24-year-old forward for the Miami Heat who won the 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest.

Carter Braynt

One of the four players who competed in the 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, finishing as the runner-up.

E-40

A rapper who Keshad Johnson leapt over during one of his dunk attempts.

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What they’re saying

“I just came out, first and foremost, thank my Lord and savior Jesus Christ for allowing me to be here. Everybody's journey is different. To all the kids out there, keep dreaming. Have crazy faith. Anything can happen.”

— Keshad Johnson (NBA)

What’s next

The 2026 NBA All-Star Game will take place on February 16, 2026 at Intuit Dome in Los Angeles.

The takeaway

Keshad Johnson's victory in the 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest showcases the Heat's continued success in the event and inspires young fans to pursue their dreams through hard work and faith.