Mac McClung talks NBA dunk contest, Yuki Kawamura, and more
As the NBA world descends on Los Angeles for All-Star Weekend 2026, the biggest storyline of Saturday night might be the absence of its reigning king. Mac McClung, the three-time defending Slam Dunk Contest champion, has officially hung up his contest sneakers, opting to sit out this year’s event. In a candid media session, the Chicago Bulls two-way guard opened up about his decision to retire from the competition, his evolving career, and his electric on-court chemistry with viral sensation Yuki Kawamura.
McClung, who etched his name in history by dominating the event from 2023 to 2025, revealed that his decision to step aside wasn't just about fatigue—it was about the ecosystem of the contest itself. He noted that potential high-profile competitors were hesitant to sign up if they had to face him, creating a "fear factor" that ironically stifled the star power the league desperately craves. By stepping aside, McClung hopes to open the door for a new generation of high-flyers, though his focus has clearly shifted from halftime entertainment to legitimate NBA rotation minutes.
The conversation quickly pivoted to his current reality with the Windy City Bulls, where he shares a backcourt with Japanese playmaker Yuki Kawamura. The duo has become a must-watch attraction in the G-League, recently combining for 64 points in a single game. McClung didn't hold back his praise for the 5-foot-8 guard, calling him "amazing" and noting how effortless it is to play alongside such an unselfish facilitator. "Yuki’s the man," McClung said, highlighting how Kawamura’s passing wizardry has unlocked new layers in his own scoring game.
While he won’t be dunking on Saturday, McClung isn’t missing the festivities entirely. He was named an injury replacement for the Rising Stars Challenge, a nod that validates his grind to be viewed as a complete basketball player rather than just a dunker. For Bulls fans, the developing chemistry between McClung and Kawamura offers a fascinating subplot to a developmental season, proving that the most exciting basketball isn't always played on the main stage.
McClung, who etched his name in history by dominating the event from 2023 to 2025, revealed that his decision to step aside wasn't just about fatigue—it was about the ecosystem of the contest itself. He noted that potential high-profile competitors were hesitant to sign up if they had to face him, creating a "fear factor" that ironically stifled the star power the league desperately craves. By stepping aside, McClung hopes to open the door for a new generation of high-flyers, though his focus has clearly shifted from halftime entertainment to legitimate NBA rotation minutes.
The conversation quickly pivoted to his current reality with the Windy City Bulls, where he shares a backcourt with Japanese playmaker Yuki Kawamura. The duo has become a must-watch attraction in the G-League, recently combining for 64 points in a single game. McClung didn't hold back his praise for the 5-foot-8 guard, calling him "amazing" and noting how effortless it is to play alongside such an unselfish facilitator. "Yuki’s the man," McClung said, highlighting how Kawamura’s passing wizardry has unlocked new layers in his own scoring game.
While he won’t be dunking on Saturday, McClung isn’t missing the festivities entirely. He was named an injury replacement for the Rising Stars Challenge, a nod that validates his grind to be viewed as a complete basketball player rather than just a dunker. For Bulls fans, the developing chemistry between McClung and Kawamura offers a fascinating subplot to a developmental season, proving that the most exciting basketball isn't always played on the main stage.
