Mac McClung Explains Why He’s Sitting Out the Dunk Contest, and What’s Next
Mac McClung says he prepared for another NBA dunk contest but ultimately decided not to compete this All-Star Weekend. In a recent Q&A, the high-flying guard laid out why he stepped back, how he plans to share the work he put in, what life on a two-way contract looks like, and a surprising new creative pursuit off the court.
Why he opted out this year
McClung described the decision to sit out as mutual and measured. After making a public stop at the event in prior years he had told people he was done, but still prepared as a contingency. As the event drew closer, conversations became hesitant on both sides and he chose to step aside to avoid creating friction. He stressed there was no ill will, and framed the choice as an effort to let the All-Star festivities unfold without additional complications.
He’ll still share the dunks he worked on
Even though he won’t be on stage, McClung said he’s proud of what he developed in preparation for the contest and intends to release a compilation of the dunks. He’s partnering with a longtime equipment partner to distribute the footage on social channels. He emphasized the work was done with care and that fans will get to see what he had planned, even if it won’t be in a televised contest environment.
Thoughts on the state of the dunk contest
McClung acknowledged the challenge of keeping the dunk contest fresh. With so many creative attempts already recorded, he said surprises are harder to achieve and the physical and mental toll on participants is significant. The high-pressure nature of performing in front of a global audience and the scrutiny that follows are factors he said weigh heavily on repeat participants. He suggested the next big star to truly revive the event will need an authentic love of dunking and creativity to make it worth the risk.
Life on a two-way contract and team dynamics
Discussing day-to-day life, McClung offered a candid look at the realities of a two-way deal. He spoke warmly about teammates and locker-room chemistry, singling out a particular teammate as both a close friend and a standout player. McClung underscored the upsides—camaraderie, competitive growth—and the grind that comes with splitting time between assignments. His tone reflected patience and belief in his teammates’ potential, even as he navigates an uncertain professional path.
Endorsements, equipment and routine
McClung highlighted the importance of trusted gear in maintaining his game. He credited a long-term partnership with an insole maker for helping him feel more energetic and bouncy on the court, saying the relationship has become almost fraternal after four years. That stability, he noted, plays into preparation and confidence—especially when attempting physically demanding feats like contest dunks.
New pursuits: scriptwriting and life beyond the court
Beyond basketball, McClung revealed a budding interest in scriptwriting. He described exploring storytelling as a fresh outlet and an unexpected passion that provides balance to the rigors of professional sport. The pivot suggests McClung is thinking broadly about his future, cultivating creative work that could run alongside or beyond his playing career.
McClung’s message was pragmatic: he still loves dunking and competition, but timing, context and personal priorities will dictate his next moves. For now, fans will get a behind-the-scenes look at the dunks he prepared, while McClung continues to develop on-court skills, support teammates and pursue creative projects off the floor.
