Stephen A. Smith Blames LeBron James for NBA Dunk Contest Decline

ESPN personality criticizes James for never competing in the event despite his dunking prowess.

Feb. 17, 2026 at 7:15am

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Following the poorly received 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith blamed LeBron James for the event's decline in recent years. Smith claimed that despite James' greatness and impact on the NBA, his decision to never compete in the dunk contest was the "provocateur to ruin" the event.

Why it matters

The NBA Slam Dunk Contest has long been one of the marquee events of All-Star Weekend, but it has struggled to attract top star power in recent years. Smith's criticism of James, one of the NBA's all-time greats, highlights the ongoing debate around the responsibility of superstars to participate in and elevate the dunk contest.

The details

During his Monday morning segment on First Take, Smith said he was unimpressed by the 2026 dunk contest, which was won by Miami Heat forward Keshad Johnson. Smith then turned his attention to James, stating that despite James' greatness, his decision to never compete in the dunk contest was the main reason for the event's decline.

  • The 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest took place on February 14, 2026 in Los Angeles.
  • Smith made his comments criticizing LeBron James on his First Take segment on February 16, 2026, two days after the dunk contest.

The players

Stephen A. Smith

An ESPN personality and commentator known for his outspoken opinions on the NBA and its players.

LeBron James

One of the greatest NBA players of all time, who has never competed in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest despite his impressive dunking ability.

Keshad Johnson

The Miami Heat forward who won the 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest.

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What they’re saying

“I'm going to blame LeBron James. Now I've sat here for months and I've applauded his greatness and all the things he had done and he has meant to the NBA, but I've said it and I'm going to be very consistent... the person who really is the provocateur to ruin the slam dunk contest is him.”

— Stephen A. Smith, ESPN Commentator

The takeaway

While LeBron James' decision not to compete in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest may have contributed to the event's decline in recent years, it is unfair to solely blame him for the contest's struggles. As one of the NBA's all-time greats, James has no obligation to participate in every marquee event, and the responsibility to maintain the dunk contest's prestige lies with the league and the players who do choose to compete.