The 2025 NBA Slam Dunk Contest wasn’t just another highlight in Mac McClung’s growing legacy—it was straight-up dominance! The Orlando Magic guard pulled off something no one’s ever done before—winning his third dunk contest in a row. But just as fans were losing their minds over his insane dunks, an unexpected off-court twist took things to another level. This wasn’t just about jaw-dropping hops—McClung found a way to turn his latest win into something even bigger.
ESPN’s Shams Charania broke the news that McClung is donating the $34,000 KIA sedan—yep, the one he literally jumped over—to a foundation in his hometown of Gate City, Virginia.
Most players would take the car, maybe post a flex on Instagram, and call it a day. Not McClung. He flipped the script, deciding to give his prize to a cause that actually meant something to him.
Fans loved it. Social media lit up with people praising him for using his moment for something more than just personal glory. McClung has always had that underdog mentality, but this move proved his journey isn’t just about himself—it’s about lifting others up, too.
Mac McClung is donating the car used in tonight’s dunk contest to a foundation in need in his hometown of Gate City, Virginia. https://t.co/3yoRrwxApg
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 16, 2025
And honestly? That’s what sets him apart. He turned a dunk contest prop into something that’ll make a real difference, proving that being a star isn’t just about racking up trophies. It’s about character, and McClung just showed that his generosity might be as impressive as his vertical.
Mac McClung’s Hidden Jersey Tribute Sparks Wild NBA Reactions
As if his big-hearted donation wasn’t already enough, another cool little detail about his dunk contest performance just came to light—one that ties him to NBA vet Channing Frye in the most unexpected way. McClung rocked the number 8 jersey throughout the contest, which, at first, seemed like just a random choice. But turns out, it was actually a nod to Frye, who wore that number during his career. And when Frye found out? His reaction was priceless.
“Hey, Matt, listen, when you want to harness the elite, superior athleticism of some of the greatest jumpers ever, just put my number on, dog,” Frye joked. “It’s like putting a cape on Superman.”
Feb 15, 2025; San Francisco, CA, USA; Osceola Magic guard Mac McClung competes in the slam dunk competition during All Star Saturday Night ahead of the 2025 NBA All Star Game at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images
Classic! NBA Twitter went nuts over the unexpected connection. While Frye was never exactly known for his dunking, the tribute from McClung made the whole night even more memorable. It showed that even in his biggest career moments, he’s thinking about those who came before him.
For McClung, wearing number 8 wasn’t just for show—it was a quiet way of showing respect. Whether it was planned all along or just a fun coincidence, it added an extra layer to a night that was already one for the books.
At this point, Mac McClung isn’t just dominating the Dunk Contest—he’s changing what it means to be a star. Three straight titles, a growing collection of viral highlights, and now a donation that no one saw coming? His story is turning into something way bigger than basketball. Because in the end, greatness isn’t just about what you do on the court—it’s about how you use your platform. The dunk contest might be McClung’s stage, but his legacy? That’s something much bigger.
And with each year, he keeps raising the bar—not just for himself, but for what the contest, and the NBA, can be.
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