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NBA Dunk Contest Set to Thrill in Indianapolis

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, February 14th 2026 at 1:59 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: New York, Indiana, UNITED STATES

Indianapolis, IN - February 14th, 2026 - The anticipation is building as the NBA Dunk Contest takes center stage tonight as part of the 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend festivities in Indianapolis. Basketball fans worldwide are tuning in to witness some of the league's most athletic players battle for dunking supremacy. With a promising lineup including Jaime Jaquez Jr., Anthony Edwards, and Scottie Barnes already confirmed, this year's contest is shaping up to be a spectacular display of aerial artistry.

The Dunk Contest, a staple of All-Star Weekend since 1984, consistently delivers moments of breathtaking athleticism and creativity. Over the years, legends like Michael Jordan, Dominique Wilkins, and Zach LaVine have etched their names into dunking folklore with iconic performances. The challenge for this year's participants is to not only execute difficult dunks but also to captivate the audience with showmanship and originality. The bar is set high, and fans are eager to see if any new legends will emerge.

Confirmed Participants and Early Predictions

• Jaime Jaquez Jr. (Miami Heat): The rookie sensation has quickly become a fan favorite with his all-around game and surprising athleticism. While relatively unknown as a dunker compared to others in the field, Jaquez possesses a strong work ethic and could unveil some creative, unexpected dunks. Don't underestimate the element of surprise he could bring.

• Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves): "Ant" is arguably the frontrunner heading into the competition. Known for his explosive athleticism and fearless attacks on the rim, Edwards has repeatedly showcased his dunking prowess in games. His confidence and competitive spirit make him a dangerous competitor, and many expect him to bring a series of high-flying, powerful dunks. He's openly expressed his desire to bring back the glory days of the dunk contest.

• Scottie Barnes (Toronto Raptors): Barnes is a versatile player with exceptional leaping ability. While he doesn't always prioritize dunking within the flow of a game, he's demonstrated in practice and occasional in-game flashes that he has the potential to deliver show-stopping dunks. His length and coordination could allow for some unique and creative attempts.

Several additional participants are yet to be announced, adding an element of mystery and excitement to the competition. Rumors are swirling around potential inclusions of high-flyers from across the league, raising the possibility of even more impressive performances.

How to Watch

For those eager to witness the action live, the NBA Dunk Contest will be broadcast on ESPN beginning at 8:00 PM ET. For cord-cutters and those seeking alternative viewing options, several streaming services will also carry the event:

• ESPN+: Available for $10.99 per month.
• Sling TV: Packages start at $40 per month.
• YouTube TV: Priced at $72.99 per month.
• Fubo: Starting at $74.99 per month.

Full All-Star Weekend Schedule

The NBA Dunk Contest is just one piece of the exciting All-Star Weekend puzzle. Here's a look at the complete schedule:

• Friday, February 13th, 2026: Rising Stars Game (9:00 PM ET)
• Saturday, February 14th, 2026: NBA Dunk Contest (8:00 PM ET), NBA 3-Point Contest (9:30 PM ET)
• Sunday, February 15th, 2026: NBA All-Star Game (8:30 PM ET)

The 3-Point Contest, following the Dunk Contest, promises another thrilling competition as the league's best shooters battle for bragging rights. And of course, the All-Star Game on Sunday will pit the top players from the Eastern and Western Conferences against each other in a showcase of talent and sportsmanship.

This year's All-Star Weekend in Indianapolis is poised to be a memorable one. The Dunk Contest, with its blend of athleticism, creativity, and entertainment value, is always a highlight. As the clock ticks down to 8:00 PM ET, basketball fans around the globe are bracing themselves for a night of gravity-defying dunks and unforgettable moments.