Mac McClung's Quest for Full-Fledged NBA Recognition

The NBA's top dunker struggles to translate viral fame into a permanent NBA roster spot

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Mac McClung is the winner of the last three NBA Slam Dunk Contests, making him the only player ever to win three in a row. However, his dunking fame has not translated into a stable NBA career, as he has bounced between the NBA and G League over the past five seasons. Despite his viral popularity and highlight-reel dunks, McClung remains on the outside looking in when it comes to securing a full-time NBA roster spot.

Why it matters

McClung's story highlights the challenges that even the most talented players can face in transitioning from viral internet fame to sustainable NBA success. While his dunking prowess has made him a fan favorite, NBA teams seem to value more well-rounded skills like consistent perimeter shooting over pure athleticism. McClung's struggle to find a permanent home in the NBA also speaks to the limited roster spots available and the intense competition to make it at the highest level.

The details

McClung, a 27-year-old guard, has played for four different G League teams in five seasons, with only 10 NBA games for five different teams during that time. He turned down multiple lucrative offers to play overseas, determined to make it in the NBA. McClung has been called up twice this season, first by the Indiana Pacers on a non-guaranteed contract, which he was waived from after just one week. He then signed a two-way deal with the Chicago Bulls, allowing him to split time between the NBA and G League. Despite his historic three-peat in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest, McClung's NBA career has been defined by the constant back-and-forth between the G League and the NBA.

  • On October 29, 2025, McClung scored 7 points in 12 minutes for the Indiana Pacers in his NBA debut.
  • On October 31, 2025, McClung scored 12 points in 19 minutes for the Pacers against the Atlanta Hawks.
  • On November 1, 2025, McClung did not play in the Pacers' game against the Golden State Warriors, and was subsequently waived a week after signing with the team.

The players

Mac McClung

A 27-year-old guard who has won the NBA Slam Dunk Contest a record three times in a row, but has struggled to find a permanent home in the NBA, bouncing between the NBA and G League over the past five seasons.

Marcus McClung

Mac McClung's father, who played football at Virginia Tech and has been a strong supporter of his son's NBA aspirations.

Lenoir McClung

Mac McClung's mother, who spoke with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver after her son's first dunk contest win about getting him on an NBA roster.

Dylan Murphy

Mac McClung's former G League coach with the Osceola Magic, who was a mentor to McClung and helped him tailor his game to NBA analytics.

Patrick Ewing

The Hall of Fame center who was the head coach at Georgetown when he offered McClung a scholarship to play point guard for the Hoyas.

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What they’re saying

“We need to get your kid on a team.”

— Adam Silver, NBA Commissioner (Lenoir McClung)

“Vince Carter, you are being challenged for the greatest dunker in dunk history!”

— Kenny Smith, TNT Analyst (TNT Broadcast)

“There's 450 NBA players. There's 90 two-way players, and there's probably another 200 guys that are capable of being in the NBA. But there just are only so many spots.”

— Dylan Murphy, Osceola Magic G League Coach (ESPN)

What’s next

The judge in McClung's case with the Indiana Pacers will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow him out on bail.

The takeaway

Despite his viral fame and historic dunking accomplishments, Mac McClung's quest to establish himself as a full-time NBA player remains an uphill battle. His story highlights the challenges even the most talented players can face in translating internet stardom into sustainable professional success, as NBA teams seem to value well-rounded skills over pure athleticism. McClung's perseverance in the face of repeated setbacks, however, has endeared him to his hometown and proven his determination to keep knocking on the NBA's door until someone answers.