Keshad Johnson Crowned 2026 AT&T Slam Dunk Champion in Thrilling Finale
LOS ANGELES – The 2026 AT&T Slam Dunk Contest, held at the Intuit Dome, delivered a spectacle of aerial prowess and unexpected star turns as Miami Heat forward Keshad Johnson soared to victory, etching his name into NBA dunk history. Johnson, whose nickname "Showtime" aptly describes his pregame warmup flair, out-pointed a determined Spurs rookie, Carter Bryant, in a final round that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
A Contest of Ambition Over Name Recognition
While the lineup for the 2026 AT&T Slam Dunk Contest might not have boasted the household names of past years, it certainly didn't lack in ambition, creativity, or thrilling athleticism. The four participants – Keshad Johnson, Carter Bryant, Jase Richardson, and Jaxon Hayes – were all eager to prove their mettle on the All-Star Saturday stage. For many in the audience, this was their introduction to these rising talents, a chance to witness the future of dunking.
The Underdog Story of Keshad Johnson
Johnson's journey to this national spotlight is a testament to perseverance. Undrafted in 2024, he recently earned a recall from the G-League and has been making his mark with the Miami Heat, playing in 21 games this season. His victory in the AT&T Slam Dunk Contest is more than just a trophy; it's a significant boost to his burgeoning career, providing him with a measure of visibility and celebrity that will undoubtedly serve him well moving forward.
Navigating the Competition: From Early Exits to a Dramatic Comeback
The path to the championship was not without its drama. Jaxon Hayes, the most accomplished player in terms of NBA experience as a backup center for the Los Angeles Lakers, was an early elimination. Jase Richardson, son of two-time contest winner Jason Richardson, also faced adversity. In the second round, Richardson suffered a scary fall after missing a dunk, hitting his head on the court. Despite successfully completing a third attempt, the Orlando Magic guard was ultimately eliminated.
The Final Showdown: Johnson vs. Bryant
The contest ultimately came down to a compelling matchup between Keshad Johnson and Carter Bryant. The final round demanded a second dunk comeback from Johnson, highlighting his resilience under pressure. Bryant set a high bar early in the round, scoring the only perfect 50 of the contest with a spectacular dunk that involved tossing the ball high and bringing it between his legs mid-air. However, Bryant struggled to maintain that momentum with his subsequent attempt, scoring a 43.0.
Johnson's Consistency Seals the Deal
Johnson, known for punctuating his pregame warmups with gravity-defying dunks, showcased his consistency and flair. He delivered a pair of solid dunks in the final round, earning scores of 49.6 and a championship-clinching 47.8. His ability to perform under the immense pressure of a perfect score from his opponent proved to be the deciding factor. The crowd's reaction to Johnson's final dunk was electric, a clear indication that he had won them over.
A New Chapter for "Showtime"
Keshad Johnson's victory at the 2026 AT&T Slam Dunk Contest marks a significant moment in his career and adds another chapter to the storied history of NBA dunk champions. His performance was a masterclass in athleticism, creativity, and mental fortitude. As he continues his development with the Miami Heat, this All-Star Saturday triumph is sure to serve as a powerful springboard, showcasing his potential and electrifying audiences for years to come.
Official release updated on February 15, 2026, 1:09 AM.