SAN FRANCISCO — A year ago, Mac McClung believed he had completed his journey in dunk contests. After winning the event during the NBA’s All-Star weekend twice, he felt satisfied and thought he had nothing left to prove. However, just a week later, he found himself in the gym practicing new dunks, realizing he had one more performance left in him. “I love the contest, man,” stated McClung. “It’d be an act of fear not to do it again. So, I’ll do it — one last time.”
Standing at 6-foot-2, McClung has made a name for himself as an outstanding guard in the G League, even though he has played in just five NBA games. He is returning to All-Star weekend with the aspiration of becoming the first player to win the dunk title three years in a row. Although Nate Robinson is the only player who has won the dunk contest three times, his victories were not consecutive.
In 2023, McClung revitalized the dunk contest and earned acclaim from many prominent NBA figures when he clinched the title for the first time. He followed that victory by soaring over Shaquille O’Neal to secure his second title. Now, he is set to vie for a third consecutive win in San Francisco on Saturday, competing against rookies Stephon Castle from San Antonio and Matas Buzelis from Chicago, as well as Milwaukee’s second-year player Andre Jackson Jr.
“I’m not going there to lose,” Buzelis proclaimed confidently. Jackson added, “I just want to be myself and put on a show.” Castle shared his own feelings of anticipation, admitting that while he feels nerves before most games, he views this experience as just another event in his evolving career.
Once the weekend concludes, all contestants will return to their respective roles in the NBA. McClung, however, continues to await a more prominent opportunity. Throughout his five games with four different NBA teams — Chicago, Los Angeles Lakers, Philadelphia, and Orlando — he has accumulated 33 points, with a total of 20 points scored in one game with the 76ers against Brooklyn on April 9, 2023. Since that outing, he has not added another point to his NBA tally.
“It’s all about opportunity,” McClung emphasized. He noted that he is not alone in his situation; numerous G League players possess the skills to succeed in the NBA. He has observed many athletes from the G League make significant strides once given a chance in the league. In the face of challenges, McClung maintains his faith in God and believes he is always where he’s meant to be. Currently, he competes with the Osceola Magic under a two-way contract with Orlando. McClung is delivering impressive numbers this G League season, averaging 24.5 points and 6.1 assists. He has also previously won Rookie of the Year, G League champion, and holds the title of reigning G League MVP.
“I take pride in the G League,” McClung declared. “Every year is a challenge, especially on a two-way contract, where the emphasis is on staying ready. But I am focused on winning in the G League. Achieving a championship is essential, and I hope we can accomplish that this year in Osceola.”
Achieving back-to-back dunk titles has certainly elevated McClung’s profile. While recognition has increased, he remains grounded, comfortable in his casual attire, driving a Ford Bronco, and socializing with his close-knit group of friends who keep him humble. Proud of his roots in the small town of Gate City, Virginia, he is just an ordinary guy with extraordinary jumping ability who has captured global attention for his dunking prowess.
Despite lucrative offers from European teams, the NBA remains McClung’s dream, and he is not ready to abandon it. Having always embraced the underdog role, he finds ways to transform aspirations into reality. “It’s funny. I don’t even see myself as just a dunker,” he said. “Those who know me best recognize that I’m a competitor first. I may not have yet made a significant impact in the league, but that’s where I want to be and who I aspire to become. That’s my true passion.”
This Saturday, he will step onto the NBA stage once more, with an opportunity to make history through his exceptional dunking skills.
