CHICAGO — Mac McClung, the three-time defending NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion, will not participate in the 2026 competition tonight, February 14 2026, during the All-Star Weekend festivities. The Chicago Bulls guard, who has become the face of the event over the last three years, cited a right calf injury and a desire to focus on his long-term NBA career as the primary reasons for his absence.
Breaking: Injury Forces McClung Out of Rising Stars and Dunk Contest
The 26-year-old guard was recently ruled out of the 2026 Rising Stars game due to a right calf strain. This injury, combined with a strategic shift in his career goals, led McClung to decline the invitation to defend his title. McClung made history by winning the Slam Dunk Contest in 2023, 2024, and 2025, joining the ranks of legends like Nate Robinson as the only three-time winners.
In a recent interview, McClung revealed that his decision was also influenced by the competitive landscape. “I’ve heard from certain players that they didn’t want to participate if I was in it again,” McClung shared, suggesting that his dominance in the event may have inadvertently discouraged other high-profile stars from entering.
The Ultimate Gamble: Turning Down Millions for the NBA
McClung’s journey to a stable NBA roster spot has been a testament to his persistence. Despite his viral fame and G League MVP accolades, he has spent much of his professional career on two-way contracts. Recently, McClung revealed he turned down “millions” in lucrative offers from EuroLeague and Chinese teams to stay in the United States.
“I’m chasing the dream,” McClung said regarding his decision to decline overseas wealth. He currently holds a two-way contract with the Chicago Bulls, earning a base salary of approximately $245,064 for the 2025-26 season. His focus remains on proving he is more than just a “dunk specialist” by securing a permanent role in a rotation.
Mac McClung Career Stats and Physical Profile
While known for his 43.5-inch vertical leap, McClung has posted impressive numbers in the NBA G League that suggest he belongs on an NBA floor:
- Height: 6′ 2″
- Weight: 185 lbs
- G League Peak: Averaged 25.7 PPG and 6.6 APG with Osceola (2023-24).
- Recent Performance: Recorded 12 points and 3 steals in 19 minutes for the Bulls against the Hawks in late 2025.
What’s Next for the Bulls Guard?
With the 2026 All-Star Weekend moving forward without its most electric dunker, the focus for McClung shifts entirely to rehabilitation. The Bulls are hopeful that the guard can return to the Windy City Bulls and the main roster shortly after the break to provide backcourt depth and energy.
As the NBA world watches a new champion be crowned tonight, McClung’s legacy as the man who “saved the dunk contest” remains secure, even as he trades the spotlight for a chance at a long-term NBA home.