San Antonio Spurs rookie Carter Bryant has accepted an invitation to compete in the 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest during All-Star Weekend. He joins Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes as the first two participants announced for the event on February 14 in Inglewood, California.
The NBA All-Star Weekend in Inglewood promises excitement, with the Slam Dunk Contest set to feature fresh talent. According to ESPN's Shams Charania, Carter Bryant, the 14th overall pick in the 2025 NBA draft, will represent the Spurs in the competition. This marks the fifth time a Spurs player has participated, following teammate Stephon Castle's appearance last year.
Bryant has had a limited role this season, appearing in 37 games and averaging 2.5 points and 1.7 rebounds while shooting 35.1% from the field. His standout performance came on January 19, when he scored a season-high 11 points, grabbed three rebounds, blocked two shots, and added a steal in a victory over the Utah Jazz. Earlier this month, on January 9, he played in the G League for the Spurs' affiliate, posting 15 points, five rebounds, and two blocks on 6-of-13 shooting in 29 minutes during a win against the South Bay Lakers.
The contest will seek a new champion after Mac McClung, the three-time reigning winner, announced he will not defend his title this year. Philadelphia 76ers rookie VJ Edgecombe also declined interest in participating. The Saturday night event, headlining the festivities, begins after the Skills Challenge and 3-Point Contest, which start at 5 p.m. EST on NBC and Peacock.