Keshad Johnson of the Miami Heat captured the NBA Dunk Contest this year, besting San Antonio Spurs forward Carter Bryant. Despite Bryant starting strong with a perfect 50 for his between-the-legs dunk, he faltered on his final attempt. Needing just a 47.5 to win, he managed only a 43 with a 360-degree dunk.
Johnson’s final dunk landed him a score of 47.8. He soared from the key for a stunning windmill, which, while less impressive than he and others anticipated, followed a jaw-dropping between-the-legs dunk from under the basket. Johnson’s performance is especially remarkable given that he was undrafted in 2024 and has played limited minutes for the Heat this season, averaging just 3.1 points in 21 games. He now joins the ranks of notable Heat dunk contest victors, the last being Derrick Jones Jr. in 2020, and the first, Harold Miner, who won in 1993 and 1995.
Bryant’s strong start, including a spectacular windmill slam in the first round, almost secured him victory. He scored an impressive 49.2 on that dunk, placing him at the top of the initial round scores. Both Johnson and Bryant moved on past Jase Richardson and Jaxson Hayes, who struggled to keep up.
The judges this year were heavyweights in the dunking world, including former champions like Dwight Howard and Julius Erving. In a world where social media dominates, reactions poured in from fans who took to platforms like Twitter to express their opinions. Many felt Johnson’s creativity and flair won him the contest, while Bryant’s initial performance left them wanting more.
In addition to the dunk contest, the All-Star Saturday featured a thrilling 3-point contest. Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard made his season debut and emerged victorious, scoring 27 points in the first round and 29 in the finals, defeating Devin Booker. This marked Lillard’s third title in the event, putting him alongside legends like Larry Bird.
The excitement continued with the shooting stars contest, where Team Knicks took home the trophy. Players and legends teamed up for showcases that delighted fans.
Overall, this year’s NBA All-Star festivities were filled with surprising moments, showcasing not only the athletes’ skills but also their ability to captivate and entertain the audience.
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NBA Dunk Contest, Carter Bryant, Keshad Johnson, Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs, Jalen Johnson, Damian Lillard, Dominique Wilkins, Devin Booker, Jaxson Hayes, Los Angeles Lakers, Dwight Howard, Kon Knueppel, Derrick Jones Jr., Jase Richardson, Donovan Mitchell, Orlando Magic, Cleveland Cavaliers, Denver Nuggets, Trail Blazers, Tyrese Maxey, Jamal Murray, Milwaukee Bucks, Norman Powell, Karl-Anthony Towns, Jalen Brunson, Philadelphia 76ers, Charlotte Hornets, Clippers, Corey Maggette, Knicks
