NBA Slam Dunk Contest Faces Uncertain Future

Lackluster performances and lack of innovation spark calls to end the annual event

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The NBA Slam Dunk Contest, once a highlight of All-Star Weekend, is facing growing criticism and calls for its demise after another underwhelming showing this year. Featuring forgettable dunks and TikTok-inspired celebrations, the contest has failed to capture the imagination of fans, leading some to argue it's time to retire the event altogether.

Why it matters

The Slam Dunk Contest was once a marquee event that showcased the athleticism and creativity of the NBA's best players. However, in recent years, it has struggled to maintain relevance, with many feeling the quality of dunks has declined significantly. This raises questions about the future of the contest and whether the NBA should focus its efforts on other events during All-Star Weekend.

The details

This year's Slam Dunk Contest featured several disappointing performances, including a dunk attempt by Orlando's Jase Richardson that was described as "committing self-CTE" and a dunk by Los Angeles Lakers' Jaxson Hayes that was deemed "one of the most ordinary dunks the committee has seen since the early 80s." The winner, Keshad Johnson of the Miami Heat, won with a windmill dunk from the middle of the restricted area and a TikTok-inspired celebration, further fueling the criticism that the contest has lost its luster.

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

The players

Jase Richardson

A player for the Orlando Magic who attempted a dunk that was criticized as dangerous and unimpressive.

Jaxson Hayes

A big man for the Los Angeles Lakers who performed a dunk that was described as ordinary and unworthy of the Slam Dunk Contest.

Keshad Johnson

The winner of the 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, representing the Miami Heat, who performed a windmill dunk from the middle of the restricted area and a TikTok-inspired celebration.

Mac McClung

A player for the Chicago Bulls who is the three-time reigning Slam Dunk Contest champion and has performed some of the most impressive dunks in recent years, but was not a participant in the 2026 contest.

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What they’re saying

“Seriously, how could anyone have watched this garbage last night and still wanted it to continue?”

— Austin Perry, Author (outkick.com)

“We used to watch people jump over cars, over mascots, even go between the legs from the free throw line. But now, we are stuck with concussions and TikTok dances.”

— Austin Perry, Author (outkick.com)

“The public opinion is aligned as well. Everyone hates the Slam Dunk Contest.”

— Austin Perry, Author (outkick.com)

What’s next

The NBA will likely evaluate the future of the Slam Dunk Contest in the coming months, with the possibility of canceling the event or implementing changes to revive fan interest.

The takeaway

The decline of the NBA Slam Dunk Contest highlights the challenge of maintaining the relevance and excitement of long-standing events in professional sports. As fan expectations and preferences evolve, the league may need to consider bold steps to either reinvent the contest or retire it in favor of new initiatives that better capture the imagination of modern audiences.