Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes and San Antonio Spurs rookie forward Carter Bryant have been named as participants in the NBA slam dunk contest during All-Star Weekend, according to ESPN’s Thursday report. Their inclusion marks the first confirmed players for the event, traditionally featuring four contestants.
Overview of Hayes and Bryant’s Careers
Hayes, a 7-foot center entering his seventh NBA season and third with the Lakers, will make his debut in this year’s dunk contest. Known for his athleticism, he recently executed a between-the-legs dunk in a Lakers victory over the Chicago Bulls, currently averaging 6.4 points and 3.9 rebounds per game.
Bryant, selected 14th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft, has played 37 games off the bench for the Spurs and is averaging 2.5 points per game as a rookie forward. He will be competing against more experienced players despite his limited minutes.
Event Timing and Notable Absence
The dunk contest is scheduled for February 14 in Inglewood, California, one day before the All-Star Game. Notably, three-time defending champion Mac McClung will not be participating this year, opening the field for new contenders like Hayes and Bryant.
Significance of This Year’s Contest
The addition of Jaxson Hayes and Carter Bryant brings fresh energy to the dunk contest, presenting opportunities for emerging talents to impress fans during the high-profile All-Star Weekend. Their participation may shift the competitive dynamic following McClung’s absence, increasing anticipation around the event’s outcome.
