In just a few hours, the excitement of NBA All-Star Weekend will erupt, and fans from all corners of the world are ready to witness their favorite players perform their best jaw-dropping feats. Whether it’s the high-flying dunks, pinpoint 3-pointers, or the ultimate showdown, the All-Star Game will be nothing less than entertainment. But here’s the real kicker—it’s not just the spotlight and bragging rights these elite athletes are after. There’s a serious financial reward up for grabs.
What’s the return behind the competition? Respect, fame. But it’s not just the glory—there’s a hefty paycheck tied to those impressive performances. Curious about how much cash the players stand to make while dazzling fans with their skills? Keep reading to uncover the jaw-dropping prize money that makes this star-studded weekend even more thrilling.
What is the prize money for the NBA Dunk Contest?
The NBA Slam Dunk Contest needs no introduction, starting from the jaw-dropping moments to Hooper’s showing creativity, athleticism, and sheer power, it is like a blockbuster. But after the high-flying dunks and crowd-roaring moments, do you wonder how much the winner takes home?
So, let’s answer it. According to the NBA’s Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), is $125,000 for the victorious dunker. While the runner-up takes home $50,000. Oh, there are four teams this time! So how much do they take? It is $25,000 each for the last two teams, per player.
The prize, however, serves as an exciting bonus for the winner, especially given the competition they face. But where and when is it taking place? On February 15, by 8 p.m. Eastern time, the final event of All-Star Saturday will take place at the Chase Center, which is the NBA Slam Dunk Contest. With promises to cap off an action-packed evening, fans can catch all the high-flying action live on TNT. The contest itself remains a centerpiece of the weekend, with each dunker showcasing their skills in front of an enthusiastic crowd. This year’s Dunk Contest also features four exciting competitors.
First, we have San Antonio Spurs’ Stephon Castle, Matas Buzelis of the Chicago Bulls, Andre Jackson Jr. of the Milwaukee Bucks, and Mac McClung, who represents the Orlando Magic. McClung, a two-time defending champion, returns with high expectations. Last year, he wowed the crowd by jumping over NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal to complete an unforgettable dunk. McClung’s return has fans buzzing, eager to see if he can complete a historic three-peat.
Can anyone defeat Mac McClung in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest?
“Stephon Castle for the win. It’s about to become a Spurs party.” – Michelle Beadle
https://t.co/XNUHQofv6O@MichelleDBeadle | @ChandlerParsons | @TeamLou23 pic.twitter.com/7dHIh9mXs8
— Run It Back (@RunItBackFDTV) February 14, 2025
Castle enters the contest with a lot to prove. He’s part of the team’s long-term plans alongside future phenom Victor Wembanyama. Castle is known for his high-flying dunks and could very well bring Wembanyama into the action. Expect a unique dunk or two from this dynamic duo. Matas Buzelis, the Bulls’ rookie, will also bring some serious hops.
After Zach LaVine’s departure, Buzelis has been stepping up his game, like he scored 15.6 points per game and shooting 50% from beyond the arc. The Dunk Contest for sure will give him another platform to showcase his rising potential. Another rookie from the Bucks, Andre Jackson Jr. will be a good watch. With one of the most jaw-dropping dunks of the season, he has already proven his leaping ability. He has the potential to surprise fans and judges alike, making him a strong contender for the crown. This year’s Dunk Contest will feature a new twist.
This would lead to a major change. For the first time, fans will be able to participate in the judging process. Now, this makes it more existing. For this, fans will submit their scores via the NBA App or nba.com, and their votes will be averaged to create a fifth score that counts toward the final result. But that does not keep judges out of the game. The official panel of judges will include NBA legends Baron Davis, Kevin Garnett, Tracy McGrady, and Jason Richardson. Adding a fan vote creates an interactive experience, allowing the crowd to have a direct say in the outcome.
So, with the prize money and the added fan participation, the 2025 Slam Dunk Contest promises to be a night to remember. So with that, let’s look at the 3-PT Contest.
What is the prize money for the NBA 3-Point Contest?
The NBA 3-Point Contest is another high-stakes event in the NBA All-Star with its thrilling competition. The prize money for the event is a big motivator for players, especially when the winner walks away with $60,000. Second place is no slouch either, taking home $40,000, while third place receives $25,000. Those finishing fourth to seventh get $15,000, making the contest one that rewards everyone involved.
This year, the prize money is bound to fuel fierce competition. Now that you know about the prize money, here is some other major information that you must know. Firstly, the 2025 NBA 3-Point Contest will take place on February 15th, during All-Star Saturday Night, at the Chase Center in San Francisco. Fans can tune in at 8 p.m. ET to see who will rise to the challenge. This means the 3-Point Contest and Slam Dunk Contest will be at the same time. This is now a tough call for fans to decide what to watch.
There are eight hoopers and among this one familiar face or the most is two-time defending champion Damian Lillard. Known for his clutch shots, fans are excited to see if he can retain his title. However, it will be challenging because he faces tough competition.
Buddy Hield is yet another familiar face and a tough competitor. He is a former champion who won in 2020 and brings his sharpshooting to the contest. This year, he has the added advantage. Well, as you must have already guessed, it’s performing in front of a home crowd at the Chase Center in San Francisco. Then there’s Darius Garland of the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Garland enters the contest as the most accurate shooter in the field this season, with an impressive 43% shooting from beyond the arc. He’s determined to make a name for himself in the contest and could surprise some people with his steady shooting. Well, Jalen Brunson from the New York Knicks, Pistons’ Cade Cunningham, Tyler Herro from the Miami Heat, Cameron Johnson from the Nets, and Norman Powell from the Clippers are no less. It is time for you to tune into the All-Star weekend!
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