Mac McClung reveals the shocking reason he skipped the Dunk Contest

The Chicago Bulls entered the All-Star weekend with an unexpected story as Mac McClung addressed his decision to skip the NBA slam dunk contest. Fresh from signing a two-way contract last week, the top full-back explained why he will not be defending the title despite owning the tournament for three consecutive years.

McClung won the dunk contest crowns in 2023, 2024 and 2025, putting themselves on the edge of history. A fourth straight win would secure a rare top four and further cement his legacy as one of the competition’s most elite performers. Instead, the 27-year-old decided to retire.

After signing with Chicago, McClung remained active in the rising star festivities, but uncertainty surrounded his dunk contest status. Speculation intensified in January when reports suggested he might step down. Clarity arrived in an article published Thursday by Ciro Asseo of HoopsHipe, which shared a revealing statement from the current champion.

“I think it was just back and forth that we were like this, and then they called me, they were like ‘People didn’t want to do it if I was doing it,’ and I thought the best thing this year is to just sit back and let it be, no matter what.”

His comments confirmed what many in the league suspected. Several potential participants reportedly hesitated to enter the competition if the guard had committed a crime. Instead of creating tension or complicating the terrain, he voluntarily removed himself from consideration.

The decision has significance for both Chicago and the league. McClung misses out on becoming the first player to win four consecutive NBA slam dunks. His absence also underscores the balance between star dominance and maintaining broad participation in All-Star Weekend events.

League sources said his participation has quietly affected the willingness of other players to enter the annual event.

The Bulls still kept McClang on a two-way deal, and he remains part of the weekend celebration. However, his choice speaks volumes. When competitors hesitate to challenge the reigning champion, it confirms just how thoroughly McClung has reshaped the modern slam dunk competition stage.