Get ready for a high-flying spectacle that will leave you on the edge of your seat! The NBA has just unveiled the lineup for the 2026 AT&T Slam Dunk Contest, and this year’s event is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet, with a fresh roster of competitors ready to defy gravity. But here’s where it gets controversial: can a rookie truly outshine seasoned veterans in this electrifying showdown? Let’s dive into the details.
What: AT&T Slam Dunk Contest
When: Saturday, February 14, 5:00 PM ET (3rd event of NBA All-Star Saturday)
Where: Intuit Dome, Inglewood, California
How to Watch: Tune in on NBC or stream live on Peacock
Rules: For the full breakdown, check out the official competition rules here.
On February 7, 2026, the NBA revealed the four athletes set to battle it out for the title of Slam Dunk champion. This year’s contest is unique—all four participants are making their debut, ensuring a fresh and unpredictable competition. Here’s the lineup:
- Carter Bryant (San Antonio Spurs): A 6-foot-6 rookie forward drafted 14th overall in 2025, Bryant is ready to showcase his athleticism on the big stage.
- Jaxson Hayes (Los Angeles Lakers): Standing tall at 7 feet, this veteran center is in his seventh NBA season and third with the Lakers. Will his experience give him the edge?
- Keshad Johnson (Miami Heat): A 6-foot-6 forward in his second NBA season, Johnson split his time last year between the Heat and their G League affiliate, the Sioux Falls Skyforce.
- Jase Richardson (Orlando Magic): Another rookie, Richardson was drafted 25th overall in 2025. Fun fact: he’s the son of two-time Slam Dunk champion Jason Richardson (2002 and 2003). Could the apple fall far from the tree? Or is Jase destined to follow in his father’s footsteps?
The contest will follow a two-round format. In the first round, each player will perform two dunks, with judges scoring each attempt. The top two scorers advance to the final round, where they’ll execute two more dunks to determine the champion. But here’s the part most people miss: the judges’ criteria include creativity, difficulty, and execution—meaning it’s not just about the flashiness but also the finesse.
And this is where it gets even more intriguing: with two rookies and two veterans in the mix, will experience or raw talent reign supreme? The 2026 AT&T Slam Dunk Contest promises to be a battle of innovation and skill, leaving fans wondering who will take home the crown.
Don’t miss this thrilling event on February 14 at 5:00 PM ET on NBC and Peacock. Who do you think will emerge as the champion? Is it too bold to predict a rookie victory, or will the veterans hold their ground? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
