If you don't know the name Mac McClung, it is hard to really blame you. McClung is one of those players who really made a name for himself thanks to highlight tapes on social media. Throughout his time in high school and college, he was a dunking machine. Overall, he is just 6'2" which makes his bounce truly impressive. However, aside from his amazing dunking ability, he has yet to really make much of an impact in the NBA. He originally signed with the Lakers only to be relegated to the G-League. Subsequently, this past week, he signed a two-way deal with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Additionally, McClung opted to put his name into the ring for the dunk contest. As we all know, the NBA Dunk Contest isn't what it used to be as the star power isn't there. This year, many fans were stunned by the lack of name recognition, and the presence of a G-League player made it that much less appealing for some people. However, Mac McClung went into the competition with the mindset that he would try and win an NBA role. In the end, he certainly did not disappoint.
Mac McClung Takes It All
In the video clip above, McClung was able to secure the Dunk Contest title with a 540-degree dunk. This is a move that certainly impressed all of the judges and those in the arena. Moreover, McClung was swarmed by fans, players, and celebrities upon making this dunk. It was a truly special moment for the young man, and we're sure he was pumped by the reactions. In the eyes of many, he helped save the dunk contest.
As for NBA Twitter, they were also pumped about all of this. "Man was a viral HOH high school dunk phenom, still working his way to the League, but lemme go get that dunk contest trophy right quick and bring it back to life!!!" Steph Curry said. McClung also received immense praise from Magic Johnson, who said "Mac McClung has personally saved the slam dunk contest with his performance tonight." Needless to say, the G-League star came through with a heroic effort that may just earn him some playing time in the NBA.
