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Shaquille O'Neal to Lead Warner's DunkMan Competition as Chief Ambassador and Judge

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, November 18th 2025 at 16:20 GMT by Variety

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Shaquille O'Neal to Boost Warner’s DunkMan Basketball Competition: A Full‑Court Overview

In a move that has electrified both the NBA‑loving fan base and the growing circuit of amateur dunk contests, former NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal will be lending his star power to Warner’s DunkMan basketball competition. The three‑day event, slated to take place in Miami, Florida, from September 12th to 14th, promises a blend of high‑octane athleticism, cutting‑edge production, and a dash of Shaq’s trademark charisma. Below is a comprehensive rundown of what to expect from this sensational showdown, gleaned from the latest report on MSN Sports and the accompanying press releases.

The Star‑Studded Roster

At the heart of the DunkMan extravaganza is Shaq O’Neal, who has been announced as the chief ambassador and head judge for the competition. O’Neal’s involvement follows a successful partnership with the event’s sponsors over the past two years, during which he served as a special guest and mentor to rising dunk artists. In his role this year, he will:

• Host the Finals – Deliver a keynote introduction, set the tone for the final round, and announce the winners.
• Serve as a Live Judge – Score the top three categories (Highest Difficulty, Best Style, and Crowd Favorite) alongside a panel of former NBA players and current athletes.
• Offer Live Coaching – Host a pre‑final “Shaq’s School” workshop for the finalists, providing technique feedback and motivational tips.

The competition will also welcome a host of other high‑profile names. According to the event’s press release, former NBA guards Jason Kidd and Tony Parker will serve as co‑judges. Former NBA star and current broadcaster Derek Fisher will provide commentary, while local Miami-based YouTube sensation, “The Dunk Master,” will run a social media challenge live from the arena.

How the Competition Works

The DunkMan competition follows a tiered format that tests the participants on a spectrum of criteria. Participants are required to perform a sequence of three dunks per round: a baseline (in‑field), a mid‑range, and a high‑floor or off‑court spectacular. Each dunk is evaluated based on:

1. Technical Difficulty – Complexity of the move and degree of risk.
2. Aesthetic Style – Creativity, flair, and overall showmanship.
3. Audience Reaction – Crowd cheers and the “pop” factor, captured via a real‑time live poll.

The competition will run for 48 participants, narrowed down through a series of prelims and semi‑finals that will be streamed live on ESPN+ and Warner Bros. Discovery’s platforms. Each round’s top scorers will automatically qualify for the next stage, culminating in a 12‑person final showdown.

The Prize Package

While the competition’s primary allure is the global exposure and the opportunity to play in front of a massive live audience, the prize money is equally compelling. The winners will receive:

• First Place – $100,000 in cash, a brand‑new Mercedes‑E, and a spot in the next season’s NBA Dunk Contest as an invitee.
• Second Place – $50,000 in cash and a custom-designed “DunkMan” sneaker collection from the sponsor’s apparel line.
• Third Place – $25,000 in cash, a private training session with Shaquille O’Neal, and a signed ball from the NBA’s Hall of Fame.

Additionally, each finalist will earn a feature on Warner’s “DunkMan Academy” platform, an educational series for upcoming dunk artists.

History & Expansion

The DunkMan competition, first launched in 2019, has steadily grown from a niche online contest to a mainstream event broadcasted on major sports networks. Over the last five years, the competition has seen a 300% increase in participant numbers and a 200% rise in global viewership. Notably, the 2023 edition, held in Los Angeles, attracted over 10,000 live attendees and was viewed by more than 3 million viewers across digital platforms.

The current season’s Miami location was chosen for its proximity to O’Neal’s home base, providing him with an intimate audience and logistical support. The arena, known for hosting high‑profile basketball events, offers an optimal setting for an event that relies heavily on acoustics and lighting to enhance the spectacle.

Community Engagement & Outreach

Beyond the competition itself, the event includes a series of community outreach initiatives aimed at encouraging youth participation in sports. The “DunkMan Kids” program will feature free basketball clinics in local schools and an online mentorship series where participants can receive one‑on‑one advice from Shaq and the judges.

The organization also partnered with local charities to host a fundraising gala during the finals. Proceeds from the gala will be earmarked for the “Play to Grow” program, supporting under‑funded youth sports leagues across Florida.

Final Thoughts

Shaquille O’Neal’s presence is the single most influential factor that sets this year’s DunkMan competition apart. As a former NBA superstar with an unshakable love for dunk culture, his involvement not only lends credibility but also inspires participants to push their limits. Coupled with a solid prize structure, a robust broadcasting platform, and a strong community component, the 2025 DunkMan event promises to be a watershed moment in the world of athletic dunk competitions.

Fans can tune in via ESPN+ or the official Warner’s streaming service, and they can expect a full‑court experience that blends raw athleticism, heart‑stopping visuals, and the unmistakable swagger of Shaquille O’Neal. Whether you’re a seasoned dunk aficionado or a casual basketball fan, this event is set to deliver one of the most exhilarating sports spectacles of the year.