Former Arizona Wildcat Keshad Johnson wins NBA All-Star Slam Dunk Contest

Johnson tops fellow Wildcat Carter Bryant in the final round of the dunk competition

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Keshad Johnson, a former player for the University of Arizona Wildcats, won the 2026 NBA All-Star Slam Dunk Contest, defeating his fellow Arizona alum Carter Bryant in the final round. Johnson's acrobatic dunks, including going between the legs, were enough to edge out Bryant's powerful windmill slams and earn him the title.

Why it matters

The Slam Dunk Contest is one of the most anticipated events during NBA All-Star Weekend, showcasing the athleticism and creativity of the league's top dunkers. Johnson's victory represents a proud moment for the University of Arizona basketball program, as two of its former players faced off in the final round.

The details

In the final round, Johnson received a 49.6 for his first dunk going between the legs, while Bryant had a perfect 50 on his first attempt but struggled on his second dunk, scoring only a 43 for an average of 46.5. Johnson then scored a 47.8 on his second final round dunk to secure the victory with an average of 48.7.

  • The 2026 NBA All-Star Slam Dunk Contest took place on February 15, 2026.

The players

Keshad Johnson

A former player for the University of Arizona Wildcats, Johnson won the 2026 NBA All-Star Slam Dunk Contest.

Carter Bryant

A former player for the University of Arizona Wildcats, Bryant was the runner-up in the 2026 NBA All-Star Slam Dunk Contest, losing to his fellow Wildcat Keshad Johnson in the final round.

Jaxson Hayes

A player for the Los Angeles Lakers, Hayes competed in the 2026 NBA All-Star Slam Dunk Contest.

Jase Richardson

A player for the Orlando Magic, Richardson competed in the 2026 NBA All-Star Slam Dunk Contest. He is the son of two-time slam dunk champion Jason Richardson.

Mac McClung

The champion of the NBA All-Star Slam Dunk Contest for the past three years, McClung did not compete in the 2026 edition of the event.

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What’s next

The NBA will continue its regular season following the All-Star break, with the playoffs and NBA Finals taking place later in the year.

The takeaway

The 2026 NBA All-Star Slam Dunk Contest featured an all-Arizona Wildcats final, showcasing the talent and athleticism of the university's basketball program on the national stage. Keshad Johnson's victory over his former teammate Carter Bryant was a proud moment for the Wildcats and their fans.