Mac McClung: Why He’s Not Playing Now & What Actually Happened to Him
Who Is Mac McClung?
Mac McClung is an American professional basketball guard known globally for his athleticism and viral dunks. After starring in high school and college (Texas Tech University), McClung went undrafted in 2021, and his early career was defined by turbulence and a constant battle for NBA relevance.
Though he hasn’t secured a permanent NBA role, McClung has become one of the most famous dunkers ever, winning multiple NBA Slam Dunk Contests and thrilling fans with jaw-dropping performances.
Why Is Mac McClung Not Playing in 2026?
1. He Skipped the 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest
McClung’s absence from the 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest has become one of the biggest headlines around his name — and it’s not simply due to injury. After becoming the first player in NBA history to win three straight Slam Dunk Contests (2023–2025), McClung decided not to defend his title in 2026, ending a historic streak.
That decision came down to several factors — both personal and competitive:
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McClung had already signaled he might be done with dunk contests after three wins.
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He told reporters and HoopsHype that part of his choice was influenced by the fact that other potential participants felt hesitant to enter if he was involved, fearing they couldn’t compete with him.
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He opted to let the event evolve and give other athletes a chance to shine instead of dominating again.
The Real “Not Playing” Situation – It’s Not Just the Dunk Contest
Many fans have also asked why McClung isn’t playing more in actual NBA games. This part is a mix of injuries, roster decisions, and overall NBA fit issues.
2. Calf Injury Explained
Although McClung’s decision to skip the dunk contest wasn’t solely due to health, physical setbacks have affected his participation in other All-Star events.
He was slated to play in the 2026 Rising Stars Challenge, but a calf injury kept him out, leading to Miami Heat guard Jahmir Young replacing him on the roster.
This same calf issue also impacted his availability in G League play and likely limited his overall playing time in recent weeks.
Why Hasn’t McClung Solidified a Regular NBA Spot?
Despite his athleticism, slam dunk fame, and viral highlight reels, McClung’s NBA résumé has been inconsistent since he first entered the league.
3. Constant G League & Two-Way Contracts
McClung has spent much of his professional career in the NBA G League, bouncing between teams and converting short contracts rather than enjoying a stable NBA career.
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He’s played for Windy City Bulls, Delaware Blue Coats, Osceola Magic, South Bay Lakers, and others in the G League.
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He’s had brief NBA stints with multiple NBA franchises, often on two-way or short-term deals.
In 2025, McClung finally signed a multi-year NBA deal with the Indiana Pacers, a breakthrough many fans thought would secure his NBA future.
However…
4. Pacers Waived Him After Just 10 Days
Despite the initial optimism, McClung was waived by the Pacers just 10 days after signing that contract — a move that shocked many basketball followers.
Reasons included roster balancing and return of other players from injury, leaving McClung’s deal expendable.
This brief tenure means he has still not yet firmly established himself as an everyday NBA rotation player, even with elite athleticism.
Trying Again — Chicago Bulls Two-Way Deal
In 2026, McClung found another opportunity — a two-way contract with the Chicago Bulls.
This gives him a chance to prove he can contribute at the NBA level beyond highlights and dunk contests.
Though he’s still seeing limited minutes, his presence on an NBA roster keeps his professional dream alive and gives fans hope he can carve out a long-term role if he continues to develop his all-around game.
What Happened to His NBA Dreams?
The core reason McClung isn’t currently a full-time NBA player boils down to competition and fit.
5. NBA Level Is About More Than Dunks
NBA coaches and front offices look for:
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Consistent shooting
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Defense
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Decision-making
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Two-way contributions
Though McClung excels athletically, scouts and decision-makers have viewed him as more of a dunker and scorer than a complete backcourt performer.
That has made it hard for him to earn long-term trust as an NBA rotation player.
What Is Mac McClung Doing Now?
6. Staying Ready and Playing Competitive Basketball
As of early 2026:
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McClung is with the Chicago Bulls organization on a two-way contract.
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He’s participating in G League games to stay sharp and prove his value.
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Though he skipped the dunk contest, he still made an appearance at NBA All-Star Weekend in other events.
His goal remains the same: build a complete game and earn consistent NBA minutes.
Is Mac McClung Ever Going Back to the Dunk Contest?
McClung hasn’t officially ruled out returning to the Slam Dunk Contest, but in 2026 he chose to step aside and let others shine.
Whether he returns will depend on:
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His personal interest
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The competition format
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How his professional career unfolds
Key Takeaways
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Mac McClung isn’t participating in the 2026 Slam Dunk Contest — a decision influenced by his own choice and dynamics with other competitors.
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Calf injury played a role in his absence from the Rising Stars Challenge.
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McClung continues to chase a stable NBA role through two-way contracts and G League success.
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His fame comes from dunk contest success, but NBA teams want all-around players, and that is what he’s striving to prove.
FAQs About Mac McClung
Q: Why isn’t Mac McClung playing in the 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest?
A: McClung decided to step away after winning three straight titles; part of the reason was other players’ reluctance to compete against him, and he wanted to give others a chance.
Q: Is Mac McClung injured right now?
A: He has dealt with a right calf issue that affected his participation in the Rising Stars game, though this wasn’t the main reason he skipped the dunk contest.
Q: What happened to his NBA contract?
A: McClung briefly signed a multi-year deal with the Indiana Pacers in 2025 but was waived after 10 days. He later signed a two-way contract with the Chicago Bulls in 2026.
Q: Has he played much in real NBA games?
A: Yes, but his NBA minutes have been limited. Most of his court time has been in the G League.
Q: Could he return to the Slam Dunk Contest in the future?
A: It’s possible — McClung hasn’t completely ruled it out, but he chose to sit out in 2026.
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