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Keshad Johnson is a professional basketball player for the Miami Heat, known for his athleticism and dunking ability. He gained significant attention during the 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend by winning the Slam Dunk Contest. Johnson's performance included a memorable dunk over rapper E-40, showcasing his creativity and skill. He is a second-year forward, and his victory in the dunk contest has positioned him as a rising star in the NBA.
The NBA Slam Dunk Contest is an annual competition held during the NBA All-Star Weekend, where players showcase their dunking skills. Contestants perform a series of dunks, judged by a panel or fan voting based on creativity, difficulty, and execution. The contest has a rich history, featuring iconic moments and legendary dunkers. It highlights the athleticism and flair of players, making it one of the most anticipated events of the All-Star festivities.
The NBA 3-point Contest involves players shooting from beyond the arc to score points. Each contestant has a set amount of time to shoot a series of basketballs, with designated money balls worth extra points. The player with the highest score at the end of the round wins. This contest emphasizes shooting accuracy and technique, and it has become a fan favorite, showcasing some of the league's best shooters in a competitive format.
Damian Lillard, a star guard for the Portland Trail Blazers, has faced significant injuries, particularly a torn left Achilles tendon that sidelined him for the entire 2025-26 season. Despite this setback, Lillard made a surprising return to participate in the 2026 NBA 3-point Contest, where he won for the third time, tying him with legends Larry Bird and Craig Hodges. His resilience and ability to compete at a high level even while recovering from injury highlight his determination and skill.
During the 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend, Damian Lillard achieved the remarkable feat of winning his third NBA 3-point Contest title, tying him with Larry Bird and Craig Hodges for the most titles in the event's history. Lillard's victory was particularly noteworthy as he had not played all season due to injury, making his performance even more impressive. This win further solidified his reputation as one of the league's premier shooters.
In the 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, Keshad Johnson faced off against several competitors, including San Antonio Spurs rookie Carter Bryant, who delivered a strong performance, even achieving perfect scores on some dunks. In the 3-point Contest, Lillard competed against notable players like Devin Booker of the Phoenix Suns, who finished as the runner-up. These contests featured a mix of established stars and emerging talents, adding excitement to the All-Star Weekend.
The NBA Slam Dunk Contest has evolved significantly since its inception in 1984. Initially, it featured simpler dunks, but over the years, players have introduced increasingly complex and creative moves, often incorporating props and themes. The contest has seen legendary performances from players like Michael Jordan and Vince Carter, setting high standards for creativity and athleticism. Today, it continues to be a highlight of All-Star Weekend, drawing fans and showcasing the evolution of basketball artistry.
Contestants in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest often employ strategies that involve a mix of creativity, technical skill, and audience engagement. They may plan unique dunk sequences to impress judges and fans, sometimes incorporating props or thematic elements. In the 3-point Contest, players focus on rhythm and consistency, often practicing specific shooting spots and techniques to maximize their scoring potential. Both contests require a balance of showmanship and precision to succeed.
Winning or performing well in the NBA Slam Dunk and 3-point Contests can significantly impact a player's career by enhancing their visibility and marketability. Victories in these events often lead to increased fan support, endorsements, and recognition as elite athletes. Players like Lillard and Johnson can leverage their contest performances to solidify their status in the league, inspire younger players, and create lasting legacies in basketball history.
Fans typically react enthusiastically to NBA All-Star events, including the Slam Dunk and 3-point Contests. These competitions are highly anticipated, drawing large audiences both in-person and via broadcast. Fans enjoy the showcase of athleticism, creativity, and entertainment, often celebrating standout performances with cheers and social media engagement. The contests provide an opportunity for fans to connect with their favorite players in a fun and lighthearted environment, contributing to the overall excitement of All-Star Weekend.
