Did The NBA Find Its Dunk Contest Participants on LinkedIn?

The NBA Slam Dunk Contest is back, and so is the annual question: where are the superstars?

Since it seems like the NBA picked the slam contest participants from amongst LinkedIn profiles, I am updating my profile to showcase my best dunks in hopes of being added to the field.

This year’s lineup features Jaxson Hayes, Carter Bryant, Keshad Johnson, and Jase Richardson. All four can absolutely fly. Hayes brings size and bounce. Bryant arrives with rookie fearlessness. Johnson has the underdog energy fans love. Richardson carries legacy DNA as the son of former champ Jason Richardson.

Talent is not the issue. Star power is.

The NBA continues to produce elite athletes, yet its biggest names treat the dunk contest like it is a live wire. No one wants to risk becoming a meme. No one wants to lose brand equity because a windmill went wrong.

Still, All Star Saturday always finds a way to deliver at least one dunk that melts social media and makes us forget we spent the week complaining.

After reviewing the participant list and realizing I had to double check half the names, I have reached a bold conclusion. The contest clearly needs one more fearless competitor.

I am officially declaring myself eligible for the 2026 dunk contest.

Vertical leap remains under review. Rim clearance is considered ambitious. Confidence, however, is at an all time high.

If the stars are sitting this one out, someone has to step up. Why not me???

See you at All Star Saturday Night!!!