Few events capture the imagination of basketball fans quite like the NBA Slam Dunk Contest. Since its debut in 1984, the dunk contest has turned All-Star Weekend into must-watch television, showcasing jaw-dropping creativity, athleticism, and flair. Some contests have been forgettable—but others? Absolute classics. Here’s a look at the greatest NBA dunk contests of all time.

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1988: Michael Jordan vs. Dominique Wilkins

When fans talk about the gold standard of dunk contests, they often go back to 1988 in Chicago. Michael Jordan and Dominique Wilkins put on a head-to-head duel for the ages.

• Jordan sealed his win with the now-iconic free throw line dunk.

• Wilkins countered with thunderous two-handed windmills.

• The crowd at Chicago Stadium was electric, turning the event into a cultural phenomenon.

Why it’s great: This was the contest that elevated the event into mainstream sports history.

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2000: Vince Carter’s Legendary Performance

The 2000 dunk contest is often called the greatest of all time—and for good reason. After a two-year hiatus, the event returned with Vince Carter putting on the most dominant performance ever.

• “It’s over!” became the phrase of the night as Carter unleashed a 360 windmill, between-the-legs dunk, and the elbow hang.

• Teammate Tracy McGrady and Steve Francis also delivered incredible dunks, making it a deep contest.

Why it’s great: Carter redefined what was possible in the dunk contest, making it unforgettable.

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2006: Nate Robinson’s 14-Foot Leap

Standing just 5'9", Nate Robinson made history by defeating Andre Iguodala in a marathon contest. His highlight came when he dunked over 5’7” Spud Webb, the 1986 dunk champion.

• Robinson’s relentless energy and creativity made him a fan favorite.

• His win also highlighted the power of underdogs in the event.

Why it’s great: It showed that the dunk contest wasn’t just for high-flyers—it was about creativity and heart.

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2016: Zach LaVine vs. Aaron Gordon

The 2016 dunk contest in Toronto is considered the best head-to-head showdown since Jordan vs. Wilkins.

• Aaron Gordon wowed the crowd by leaping over the Orlando Magic mascot and pulling off mid-air contortions.

• Zach LaVine answered with free-throw line variations, including between-the-legs finishes.

• The duel went into multiple overtime rounds, with LaVine ultimately taking the crown.

Why it’s great: Many fans still argue Gordon was robbed, making this one of the most debated contests in history.

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1985: Dominique Wilkins Makes His Mark

Known as “The Human Highlight Film,” Dominique Wilkins won his first dunk contest in 1985 with a series of power dunks that set the tone for his legacy.

• His emphatic windmills and tomahawk jams brought raw force to the contest.

• This victory established Wilkins as one of the all-time dunk contest legends.

Why it’s great: It marked the rise of Wilkins as the NBA’s most feared in-game dunker.

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Why Dunk Contests Matter

The dunk contest isn’t just about points or trophies—it’s about creativity, entertainment, and pushing the limits of human athleticism. From Jordan to Carter to LaVine and Gordon, these contests have given fans timeless highlights that define NBA history.

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