Shaqir O’Neal Triumphs in 2026 College Dunk Contest: Highlights and Reactions

Shaqir O’Neal, a forward at Sacramento State, won the State Farm College Slam Dunk Championships on Friday in Indianapolis. He defeated six other competitors to secure the title.

The competitors

The field included players from a range of colleges. They were Nico Ashley (Central Connecticut), Bryson Dawkins (Youngstown State), Jaylin Henderson (Portland State), LaJae Jones (Florida State), William Kyle (Syracuse), and Sam Phipps (UT-Tyler).

Semifinals and scoring

O’Neal and Nico Ashley advanced to the later rounds. The pair were nearly even in the semifinals.

O’Neal posted 89 points across two dunks. Ashley scored 88 points over his two attempts.

The final showdown

Ashley opened the final with a perfect 50. His first dunk was a reverse slam off the side of the backboard, performed over William Kyle and a cameraman.

O’Neal answered with a honey-dip dunk that evoked Vince Carter’s 2000 performance. He then executed the move again over two players, including Kyle and Chauncey Wiggins of Florida State.

Ashley could not complete a successful second dunk before time expired. That left O’Neal needing to finish only one dunk to avoid a score of zero.

He completed a reverse windmill to clinch the championship. Judges awarded him the win.

Other contest winners

Elle Evans of Kansas won the women’s three-point contest. CJ Gunn of DePaul won the men’s three-point contest.

Highlights and reactions

The 2026 College Dunk Contest produced several memorable highlights. Shaqir O’Neal’s performances were a focal point all night.

Fans and analysts offered quick reactions on social media. Many noted the influence of his father, Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal, on the attention he receives.

Filmogaz.com covered the event and compiled scoring details and standout moments. The evening reinforced O’Neal’s rising profile in college basketball.