Mac McClung’s Historic Three-Peat: Conquering the NBA Slam Dunk Contest
In the annals of the NBA All-Star Weekend, few spectacles have captivated audiences like the Slam Dunk Contest. And amidst the high-flying acrobatics and gravity-defying feats, no name has left an indelible mark in recent years like Mac McClung.
In 2025, McClung etched his name into history as the first player to win the dunk contest in three consecutive years. His performance in San Francisco was a testament to his exceptional athleticism, creativity, and the unwavering support of those behind the scenes.
McClung’s Stellar Performance
McClung’s triumph began with an homage to Blake Griffin, the 2011 Slam Dunk champion. He soared over a silver KIA, reminiscent of Griffin’s iconic leap, but elevated the ante by having someone hang out of the sunroof with the ball. With precision and grace, McClung grabbed the ball at the car’s peak and executed a reverse dunk, earning a perfect 50 score.
His subsequent dunks were equally impressive. With a nod to Michael Jordan’s iconic free-throw line dunk, McClung jumped over two people on his way to a thunderous one-handed slam. He followed that up with a unique "through-the-legs" dunk, completing it with a stylish 360-degree spin.
McClung’s Humility and Gratitude
Beyond the spectacle, McClung’s victory was marked by his humility and gratitude. "Stuff like this doesn’t happen without sitting on the shoulders of a lot of people," the reigning G League MVP said. "I had a lot of help. People were opening gyms to fit a car in. People were letting me use their car. I’m just really grateful right now."
A Collegiate Journey Marked by Success and Transfer
McClung’s basketball journey began at Georgetown in 2018, where he led all Big East freshmen in scoring. Despite a sophomore season hampered by injury, he remained an offensive force. Seeking a change of scenery, he transferred to Texas Tech in 2020, where he averaged a solid 15.5 points per game before declaring for the 2021 NBA draft.
Uncharted Territory in the G League
Undrafted in 2021, McClung found his niche in the G League, the NBA’s developmental league. He became the G League Rookie of the Year with the South Bay Lakers, showcasing his scoring prowess and all-around game. After a stint with the Delaware Blue Coats, where he won a G League championship, McClung joined the Osceola Magic in 2023.
His dominance in the G League continued as he led the league in scoring and earned the 2024 Kia NBA G League MVP award. "It means a lot," McClung said. "It shows the relentlessness in my story. Maybe you look at me as a dunker or a highlight tape, but I’m G League MVP."
A Slam Dunk Legend in the Making
McClung’s back-to-back dunk contest victories in 2023 and 2024 placed him among the greats, alongside Michael Jordan, Jason Richardson, Nate Robinson, and Zach LaVine. But his three-peat in 2025 has cemented his status as a legendary dunker.
As McClung’s NBA future remains uncertain, his legacy in the Slam Dunk Contest is secure. His unique blend of athleticism, showmanship, and perseverance has made him an icon of the event. And while he may choose to step away from the dunk contest after this historic performance, Mac McClung’s name will forever be etched in the annals of NBA history.
