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Ja Morant Wins 2026 NBA Dunk Contest

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, February 14th 2026 at 16:21 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Colorado, Indiana, UNITED STATES

Indianapolis, IN - February 14, 2026 - Ja Morant of the Memphis Grizzlies has claimed the title of NBA All-Star Dunk Contest champion, besting a formidable field including Anthony Edwards in a breathtaking final round showdown. The contest, held tonight at Gainbridge Fieldhouse as part of the 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend festivities, delivered on its promise of high-flying action and solidified Morant's status as one of the league's most explosive athletes.

Morant's victory wasn't merely about completing dunks; it was about how he completed them. His signature behind-the-back dunk, executed with unparalleled power and finesse, was the defining moment of the night, earning a perfect 50 from multiple judges and ultimately sealing his win. While Anthony Edwards put up a valiant fight, showcasing incredibly complex aerial maneuvers and innovative approaches, he ultimately fell just short, finishing with a score of 98 to Morant's perfect 100 in the final round.

This year's contest featured a diverse group of participants, each bringing their unique style to the floor. Scottie Barnes and Paolo Banchero, while demonstrating impressive athleticism, were unable to advance to the final round. Barnes, known for his all-around game, presented solid, powerful dunks, but lacked the sheer showmanship needed to compete with the top two. Banchero, the Orlando Magic's rising star, displayed flashes of potential but struggled with consistency and execution under the intense All-Star spotlight.

A Breakdown of the Competition:

The first round saw a tightly contested battle, with Morant leading the pack with a score of 48, closely followed by Edwards at 47. Barnes (45) and Banchero (43) weren't far behind, indicating a competitive field. However, the second round separated the contenders. Morant ratcheted up the difficulty, earning a massive 96, while Edwards maintained his complex routine with a score of 95. Sadly, Banchero was eliminated, and Barnes was unable to match the intensity, receiving a score of 88.

The final round was a two-man affair, a duel between the established star in Morant and the rising force in Edwards. The tension was palpable as Edwards took the floor, attempting a daring dunk involving a spinning 360 and a one-handed grab that wowed the crowd but wasn't quite clean enough to earn a perfect score. Morant then responded with his signature behind-the-back dunk, a move that has become synonymous with his explosive playing style. The judges were unanimous - a perfect 50, and a championship for Ja Morant.

The Evolution of the Dunk Contest

This year's contest marks a potential turning point for the NBA Dunk Contest. For years, the event had been criticized for lacking innovation and excitement. Concerns arose that the focus had shifted away from creativity and towards safe, reliable dunks. However, the performances of Morant and Edwards suggest a renewed commitment to pushing the boundaries of aerial artistry. Edwards, in particular, introduced a level of complexity rarely seen in the contest, indicating a desire among younger players to redefine what's possible.

The increased athleticism and skill level of today's NBA players are clearly influencing the contest. Players are now more comfortable attempting - and landing - previously unimaginable dunks. Social media's influence also plays a role, with players undoubtedly aware of the importance of viral moments and crowd-pleasing theatrics.

Looking Ahead to 2027

As the dust settles on Morant's victory, fans are already speculating about who will compete in next year's Dunk Contest. Names like Zion Williamson, if healthy, and several other young, high-flying players are already being mentioned. The success of this year's contest has undoubtedly reignited interest in the event, and the NBA will be looking to build on this momentum in the years to come. The bar has been raised, and the expectations for future dunkers are higher than ever. The 2026 All-Star Weekend, and particularly the Dunk Contest, has proven that the spirit of innovation and athleticism is alive and well in the NBA.