Mac McClung Recreates Iconic Suns Dunk

Bulls player pays homage to Nash-Stoudemire headbutt dunk from 2005 All-Star Game

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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In a series of online videos after the 2026 NBA Dunk Contest, veteran player Mac McClung recreated the iconic headbutt dunk originally performed by Steve Nash and Amar'e Stoudemire for the Phoenix Suns during the 2005 NBA All-Star Game. McClung opted to sit out this year's dunk contest, allowing for more competitive participation.

Why it matters

McClung's recreation of the Nash-Stoudemire dunk has sparked nostalgia among Suns fans, reminding them of one of the most memorable moments in the franchise's history. While McClung did not participate in this year's dunk contest, his decision to sit out allowed for a more competitive event, as participants may have felt overshadowed by McClung's presence.

The details

In a series of online videos, McClung recreated the famed Nash-Stoudemire headbutt dunk from the 2005 NBA All-Star Game. McClung, who is currently on a two-way deal with the Chicago Bulls, opted to sit out this year's dunk contest, citing concerns that his participation would make the event less competitive for other players.

  • The 2026 NBA All-Star Game weekend took place in Inglewood, California.
  • McClung released the videos recreating the Nash-Stoudemire dunk after the 2026 dunk contest completed.

The players

Mac McClung

A veteran player currently on a two-way deal with the Chicago Bulls, who opted to sit out the 2026 NBA Dunk Contest.

Steve Nash

Former Phoenix Suns point guard who performed the iconic headbutt dunk with Amar'e Stoudemire during the 2005 NBA All-Star Game.

Amar'e Stoudemire

Former Phoenix Suns power forward who performed the iconic headbutt dunk with Steve Nash during the 2005 NBA All-Star Game.

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What they’re saying

“I think there was just back and forth of us being like this, and then they were calling me, being like 'People didn't want to do it if I was doing it,' and I thought it's best if I just sit out this year and let it be, no matter what.”

— Mac McClung (ClutchPoints)

The takeaway

McClung's recreation of the iconic Nash-Stoudemire headbutt dunk has sparked nostalgia among Suns fans, while his decision to sit out the 2026 dunk contest allowed for a more competitive event, showcasing the league's rising talent.