The NBA’s Slam Dunk contest will take place on Saturday, February 18, 2023, at 10:00 PM EST.

As usual, there will be four competitors participating in the contest.

Houston Rockets forward Kenyon Martin Jr. was one of the first contestants announced. Despite being only 22 years old, Martin Jr. is in his third NBA season.

G-League guard Mac McClung is the next man up. While he is not currently an active NBA player (McClung signed a two-way contract with the Sixers today), McClung was chosen for his incredible athleticism and dunk versatility. McClung’s only NBA stint came in the 2021-22 season, where he played one game each for the Lakers and Bulls.

New York Knicks center Jericho Sims brings a big-man presence to the competition. At 24 years old, the University of Texas product is the oldest player competing. Sims replaces Trail Blazers rookie guard Shaedon Sharpe, who dropped out of the contest to focus on the second half of the season.

The fourth and final contestant is Trey Murphy III, New Orleans Pelicans guard. Though known for his three-point shooting, Murphy III brings ample athleticism to this contest.

Slam Dunk Contest Predictions

First player eliminated: Jericho Sims

Sims is plenty athletic. He recorded a 44.5-inch max vertical jump at the 2021 Draft Combine, the third-highest mark in combine history. But, the Slam Dunk Contest is not typically a center’s expertise. Sims has the leap to make it interesting, but maybe not the dunk creativity to stick around in this contest.

Best dunk of the night: Mac McClung

McClung is a reckless dunker, and I mean that as a compliment. At a mere 6-2, McClung has been dropping jaws with high-flying dunks since his high school days. McClung has a recorded 43.5-inch max vertical jump, which is all the more impressive at his stature. I predict a flashy reverse windmill from McClung will impress the judges.

Dunk contest winner: Mac McClung

McClung is the flashiest dunker of the four, which bodes well for his Slam Dunk Contest odds. Despite being the odd man out, hailing from the G-League, McClung is a fan favorite. He has the dunk creativity and flare to give the Salt Lake City crowd what it wants.

Final prediction: McClung defeats Martin Jr. in the final round.