SAN FRANCISCO — Approximately a year ago, Mac McClung believed he had hung up his dunking shoes for good. After winning the NBA’s famed dunk contest during the All-Star weekend twice and showcasing his incredible flair, he felt there was little left to accomplish.

However, a week later, he found himself practicing new, exhilarating dunks and realized he still had one more contest left in him. “I love the contest, man,” McClung expressed. “It’d be a shame not to do it again. So, I’ll participate — one last time.”

Standing at 6-foot-2, McClung is a prominent figure in the G League who has only played five games in the NBA. As he prepares to return to the All-Star weekend, he aims to become the first player in league history to win the dunk title for three consecutive years. While Nate Robinson is the only player to capture the dunk contest title three times, his victories did not occur in consecutive years.

McClung reinvigorated the dunk contest and earned accolades from top NBA personalities after winning in 2023 and thrilling audiences by leaping over Shaquille O’Neal the following year. This Saturday night in San Francisco, he tries for another victory, facing off against San Antonio rookie Stephon Castle, Chicago rookie Matas Buzelis, and Milwaukee’s second-year wing Andre Jackson Jr.

“I’m not going there to lose,” declared Buzelis confidently. Jackson added, “I just want to be myself and put on a show.” Castle shares a similar confidence but admits to feeling a bit anxious about the upcoming event. “I get nervous for most games,” Castle admitted. “I think it’s just going to be another event for me.”

Once the weekend concludes, each athlete will return to their respective NBA roles. Currently, McClung is still waiting for a meaningful opportunity. He has played for four different teams during his brief five-game NBA career — one game with the Chicago Bulls, one with the Los Angeles Lakers, two with the Philadelphia 76ers, and one with the Orlando Magic. In total, he scored 33 points, with 20 of those points coming in one game with the 76ers against Brooklyn on April 9, 2023. Since that game, he has not added to his scoring tally.

“The easy answer is opportunity,” McClung reflected. “It’s not just me; there are many G League players who can excel in the NBA. I’ve seen players make the leap to the NBA and suddenly people think they’ve improved significantly. In reality, they’ve been talented all along. I have faith in God and believe I’m where I’m supposed to be.”

Currently, his focus is on playing for the Osceola Magic. Under a two-way contract with Orlando, he has been averaging 24.5 points and 6.1 assists in the G League regular season. Over his career, he’s celebrated various successes, including being named rookie of the year, winning a championship, and this season, holding the title of G League MVP.

“I take pride in the G League,” McClung stated. “Every year is a challenge because those on two-way contracts are told to stay ready. Yet, my priority is winning in the G League. That’s crucial to me. Winning a championship is the goal, and I hope we can achieve that this year in Osceola.”

His consecutive wins in the dunk contest have brought him considerable recognition. Although he is now more widely known, his demeanor hasn’t shifted. He remains casual in jeans and T-shirts, drives a Ford Bronco, and keeps close ties with friends who keep him grounded. Proudly identifying as a small-town boy from Gate City, Virginia, he stands out as one of the most remarkable dunkers globally.

He has received offers to play in Europe for more lucrative sums compared to his G League salary. Nevertheless, his aspirations remain fixed on the NBA, and he is not ready to relinquish that dream. Throughout his journey, McClung has often embraced the underdog role and found ways to turn his aspirations into reality.

“It’s interesting; I don’t even see myself strictly as a dunker,” McClung shared. “Those who know me understand I’m a competitor first. While I haven’t made a considerable impact in the league yet, that’s the player I want to be and the place I aspire to be. That’s where my heart truly lies.”

He’s set to take the NBA stage again on Saturday with the opportunity to carve out a place in history through his dunking prowess.