Here are my top 10 best NBA Slam Dunk Contest winners of all time before Mac McClung’s recent run as champion:
1. Vince Carter (2000): His performance is widely regarded as one of the greatest in dunk contest history, with four dunks that showcased his incredible athleticism and creativity.
2. Michael Jordan (1988): His iconic free-throw line dunk cemented his status as one of the greatest dunkers in NBA history.
3. Spud Webb (1986): The 5-foot-7 point guard defied gravity with his impressive dunks, including a 360-degree slam.
4. Dominique Wilkins (1985 and 1990): A two-time dunk contest winner, Wilkins earned the nickname “Human Highlight Film” for his electrifying performances.
5. Blake Griffin (2011): Griffin’s dunk over a Kia car is one of the most memorable moments in dunk contest history.
6. Jason Richardson (2002-03): A back-to-back dunk contest winner, Richardson’s athleticism and creativity made him a fan favorite.
7. Kobe Bryant (1997): At just 18 years old, Bryant won the dunk contest with his impressive between-the-legs dunk.
8. Dwight Howard (2008): The 6-foot-11 center showed off his athleticism and strength with a series of impressive dunks, including one where he stuck a sticker on the backboard.
9. Nate Robinson (2006, 2009-10): A three-time dunk contest winner, Robinson’s small stature belied his incredible leaping ability and creativity.
10. Zach LaVine (2015-16): LaVine’s back-to-back dunk contest wins showcased his incredible athleticism and artistry, including a memorable dunk where he jumped from the free-throw line.
With Mac McClung’s third consecutive NBA Slam Dunk Contest win, he definitely deserves a spot on the list. His consistent dominance and creativity in the dunk contest have earned him a place among the all-time greats.
Mac McClung had quite the impressive dunk over a Kia during the 2025 NBA Dunk Contest last night. This dunk was a nod to Blake Griffin’s iconic dunk over a Kia Optima in 2011. McClung’s impressive performance earned him a perfect score from the judges, and he went on to win his third consecutive NBA Slam Dunk Contest title.
I’d argue that McClung’s achievement is even more impressive than some of the other multiple-time winners, given the high level of creativity, and the fact that he’s won three years in a row.
If I had to revise the list, I’d probably put McClung in the top 5, possibly even top 3. He’s certainly in the conversation with Vince Carter, Michael Jordan, and Dominique Wilkins as one of the greatest dunk contest winners of all time.
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