The popularity of the NBA Slam Dunk Contest is declining, as the most famous players are refusing to compete. Not only are the most recognizable names going begging, even the best dunkers see no justification in putting themselves out there for the glory of being the league’s dunk king. The prestige that the competition once had is no longer there. But Phoenix Suns owner Matt Ishbia is on his way to doing something to try to change players’ minds.
In an appearance on the Pat McAfee Show, the Suns owner pledged $2 million to revitalize the Slam Dunk Contest.
“My take on it is how can we bring great players to it. How can we make it a great event. How can we make the fan experience phenomenal. We’re going to make it an amazing event,” Ishbia said. “Let’s do this. We can do this. Tell me what we’re doing?”
McAfee said, “You will invest one million dollars for the winner. And then donate one million dollars to the charity of their choice.”
“Done. Let’s get the best people in there. Let’s make it amazing,” Ishbia responded.
Suns owner Matt Ishbia has one last attempt to revive the NBA Slam Dunk Contest
The 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest is considered by many to be one of the worst ever. Jackson Hayes did a warmup dunk in the actual contest. Jess Richardson risked his life. Carter Bryant tried, but he couldn’t keep up with Keshad Johnson and his bizarre dance moves.
Giving monetary incentives has certainly worked wonders in the past, although it is not at all clear whether this will give the best players a chance to compete again as they already have millions and crores in their bank accounts and will not be incentivized in any way.
#Pat #McAfee #promised #Matt #Ishbia #million #Slam #Dunk #Contest
