The Slam Dunk Contest has lost its shine over the years, and 2026 didn’t do much to change that narrative. Like recent seasons, this year’s All-Star event was missing the star power that used to make it appointment viewing.
The lineup featured younger talents still working to establish themselves in the league, with names like Jase Richardson, Carter Bryant and Keshad Johnson taking center stage.
Three-time All-Star Gilbert Arenas had a different idea about how to generate interest. He argued that bringing back Mac McClung would have injected some much-needed energy into the competition, though that suggestion didn’t land well with everyone.
Gilbert Arenas claims NBA Stars forced Mac McClung out
During a recent