Mac McClung’s name is now etched in NBA history books as one of only five players to win back to back NBA Slam Dunk contests following an impressive showing in Saturday night’s event. Now the question becomes whether he’ll pursue a three-peat, an accomplishment only former NBA guard Nate Robinson has achieved.
When asked about the likelihood of a return after his second victory, McClung didn’t commit to it but left the possibility of pursuing a three-peat in 2025 on the table.
“I’d have to think about it. I’d never say never, but I’ll think about it,” McClung said Saturday after securing his second slam dunk contest trophy.
“I’d have to think about it. Never say never, but I’ll think about it.”
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 18, 2024
Mac McClung on the possibility of him going for a 3-peat 👀pic.twitter.com/3YfANWZo3f
McClung finished with the highest total round-one score of 97.4, edging out his eventual finals opponent, Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown, who scored 96.4 over his first two dunks. But it was McClung who shined brighter with the final two dunks of the contest, receiving a 48.8 with his third dunk and a perfect 50 on the fourth dunk after he jumped over 7’1” NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal.
MAC OVER SHAQ.
— NBA (@NBA) February 18, 2024
50 FOR THE WIN...
THAT'S BACK-TO-BACK. https://t.co/13bfmfVUlg pic.twitter.com/28lk4WRG9z
McClung joined Michael Jordan, Jason Richardson, Zach LaVine and Robinson as the only five players to win back to back dunk contests. The 25-year-old guard also has put together a solid start to the 2023-24 NBA G League season, cementing himself as one of the top scorers through 14 games. He’s averaging 23.7 points on 50.4% shooting from the field and 39.3% from three-point range.