Imagine the electrifying energy of thousands of basketball fans packed into a stadium, their eyes glued to the court as some of the world's most athletic players defy gravity with jaw-dropping dunks and precision three-pointers. This was the scene at the 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles, a celebration of basketball excellence that left spectators in awe. But here's where it gets controversial: while the slam dunk contest has long been a fan favorite, some argue it's losing its luster compared to the rising popularity of the three-point contest. Is the dunk contest still the crown jewel of All-Star Weekend, or has the three-point showdown stolen the show? Let’s dive into the highlights and let you decide.
The weekend kicked off with the slam dunk contest, a high-flying spectacle that showcased the raw athleticism and creativity of the NBA’s brightest stars. San Antonio Spurs’ Carter Bryant stole the spotlight with a series of gravity-defying dunks that had the crowd roaring. His performance was so dominant that he became an instant fan favorite, though some critics debated whether his dunks were truly innovative or just well-executed classics. Miami Heat’s Keshad Johnson wasn’t far behind, delivering a jaw-dropping dunk that left him clutching the rim in a moment that will surely become a highlight reel staple. But it wasn’t all smooth sailing—Orlando Magic’s Jase Richardson took a literal fall during his attempt, a reminder that even the best can stumble under pressure. And this is the part most people miss: Richardson’s resilience after the fall showcased the mental toughness required to compete at this level.
Meanwhile, the three-point contest brought its own brand of excitement, with Portland Trail Blazers’ Damian Lillard emerging as the undisputed champion. Lillard’s ice-cold precision from beyond the arc left no doubt about his prowess, and his emotional reaction to winning the trophy was a heartwarming moment for fans. Yang Hansen, also of the Trail Blazers, put up a strong fight but ultimately fell short, proving that even the smallest margins can make the biggest differences in this contest.
The Shooting Stars competition added a unique twist, blending teamwork and skill as New York Knicks’ Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns took home the trophy. Their chemistry on the court was undeniable, leaving fans wondering if this duo could translate their success to the regular season.
As the weekend wrapped up, Keshad Johnson lifted the slam dunk trophy, solidifying his place in All-Star history. But the real question remains: Which event truly captured the essence of basketball’s future—the high-flying dunks or the precision shooting? Is the slam dunk contest still the ultimate showcase of athleticism, or has the three-point contest become the new king of All-Star Weekend? Weigh in below and let us know your thoughts!
