A trip down to memory lane ā NBA All-Star 2023 Slam Dunk contest had many expectations. Many known NBA stars took the stage, but one made history. That player was none other than Mac McClung. He has yet again caught the headlines for winning the Slam Dunk Contest back-to-back. But it could be Shaquille OāNealās motivation that might have played a big role in his success.
Shaquille OāNeal, in the 2023 Slam Dunk contest, advised the young G League star. McClung would go on to win the event with a perfect 50 points from all judges and win the Slam Dunk contest against all odds. This is what Shaq told Mac McClung:
Nobody knows your name. Make em remember your name.
Shaquille OāNeal to Mac McClung ahead of NBA Dunk Contest 2023
Well if those words of magic worked last year, this year, it was an even better display from him. McClung would end the event with a spectacular backhand dunk over Shaquille OāNeal. It left everyone in awe with his dazzling move. And like last year, history repeated itself as the player would go on to score a perfect 50 again, winning back-to-back Slam Dunk titles.
āNobody knows your name. Make āem remember.ā
Shaq with words of inspiration to Mac McClung before winning the dunk contest last year šÆ pic.twitter.com/cjqw0m1WMS
ā Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) February 17, 2024
The Slam Dunk Contest has undoubtedly been one of the most anticipated events in the NBA yearly events. It captured some of the best and most eye-gauging dunks ever. And to put your name in the trophy as the best dunker whilst playing in the NBA G League is quite an achievement. And maybe one day, the fans could see him bring his magic to the NBA and bless the fans with some outrageous highlights.
Mac McClung reveals deserving of the opportunity to play in the NBA
After winning the Slam Dunk contest, all eyes were on the back-to-back title holder, Mac McClung. The NBA fanbase adored McClung after his performance last night. And when asked if he was more deserving of the opportunity to play in the NBA, he had a great reason to back his answer.
Mac McClung after winning back-to-back NBA All-Star Slam Dunk contests (Via The Athletic)McClung said he believed in playing in the NBA. He explained that without his grind and struggle, there would have been noises around people telling him to give a shot at the NBA. He thanked the platform he has received in order to express himself, adding to the story of his light an even better light to shine in the coming years.
It would be the most beautiful and inspirational if he makes it into the NBA. To see one of the most skillful players grace the court of the biggest league in the NBA. And while he is edging closer and closer, the day could be near when we see those mouth-dropping dunks in the NBA.
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