In the annals of basketball, the dunk contest holds a special place, showcasing the aerial artistry and gravity-defying feats of the game’s most athletic performers. Over the years, countless iconic dunks have etched themselves into the collective memory of fans, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. These are the pinnacle of high-flying showmanship, moments that transcend mere competition and become etched into basketball’s enduring legacy.
Among the most memorable dunks of all time, Michael Jordan’s free-throw line dunk in the 1988 contest stands as a testament to sheer audacity and athleticism. The Bulls’ legend soared from the charity stripe, his body suspended in the air as if defying the laws of physics. With a thunderous slam that sent shockwaves through the crowd, Jordan etched his name into dunk contest history. Likewise, Vince Carter’s windmill dunk in the 2000 contest was a breathtaking display of coordination and power. From the moment he received the ball, Carter seemed to float through the air, completing a gravity-defying 360-degree rotation before slamming it home with authority.
The dunk contest has also witnessed moments of pure innovation. Dominique Wilkins’ between-the-legs dunk in the 1985 contest was an unprecedented maneuver, demonstrating his astonishing agility and creativity. And who could forget Blake Griffin’s Kia-sponsored dunk in the 2011 contest, where he soared over a parked car before throwing down a powerful slam? These dunks pushed the boundaries of what was considered possible, leaving fans in awe and forever altering the landscape of the contest. As the dunk contest continues to evolve, these iconic moments serve as a reminder of the artistry and athleticism that make it such a captivating spectacle.
The Cosmic Cartwheel
In 1989, the second dunk contest of Dominique Wilkins’ illustrious NBA career was destined to become one of the most memorable. Wilkins, known for his electrifying aerial abilities, had already captivated audiences with his awe-inspiring dunks. But this time, he had something even more spectacular in store.
With the clock ticking down, Wilkins received an alley-oop pass from teammate Kevin Willis. In a single, fluid motion, he leaped into the air and contorted his body into an extraordinary feat of coordination and athleticism. As he soared towards the rim, he extended his right leg behind him, forming a perfect cartwheel. At the peak of his jump, he released the ball and slammed it through the hoop with a thunderous force, completing the Cosmic Cartwheel.
The dunk sent shockwaves through the arena and forever cemented Wilkins’ place as a dunk contest legend. The Cosmic Cartwheel became a defining moment in his career, showcasing his unparalleled creativity and athleticism. It remains one of the most iconic and unforgettable dunks in the history of the sport, a testament to the enduring legacy and impact of Dominique Wilkins.
The Doctor’s Devastating Dunk
At the 1985 slam dunk contest, Julius Erving, known as Dr. J, performed not one but two legendary dunks that cemented his place in dunk contest history.
The First Dunk: “The Cradle”
This dunk was a masterpiece of timing and control. Erving took a simple bounce pass and executed a flawless cradle dunk, gently guiding the ball into the net as if he were cradling a baby. The crowd erupted in thunderous applause, recognizing the effortless grace and artistry of the dunk.
The Second Dunk: “The Free Throw Line Dunk”
Erving’s second dunk was even more astonishing and defied the laws of gravity. He started behind the free throw line, a full 15 feet from the rim. With explosive power, he leaped into the air, stretched out his arm, and slammed the ball through the hoop. The arena erupted in a frenzy, witnessing a dunk that seemed impossible mere moments before.
Dunk Stats:
| Dunk |
Distance from Rim |
Execution |
| The Cradle |
1 foot |
Flawless cradle dunk |
| The Free Throw Line Dunk |
15 feet |
Explosive jump, arm extension |
Erving’s “Free Throw Line Dunk” remains one of the most iconic and gravity-defying dunks in the history of the NBA. It transcended the realm of athleticism and became a symbol of human potential and the ability to push the limits of possibility.
The Dominique Wilkins Classic
Dominique Wilkins, known as “The Human Highlight Film,” was one of the most electrifying dunkers in NBA history. His dunk contest performances were legendary, and his most famous dunk is still considered one of the greatest of all time.
The dunk in question was performed in the 1985 NBA Slam Dunk Contest. Wilkins started by jumping over a line of seven players, including his teammate Moses Malone. He then caught the ball in mid-air and slammed it through the hoop with both hands, earning a perfect score of 50.
Wilkins’ dunk was not only impressive for its athleticism but also for its creativity. It had never been done before, and it set a new standard for dunk contest performances. The dunk helped Wilkins win the contest that year, and it cemented his place as one of the greatest dunkers of all time.
Elements of the Dunk
| Elements |
Description |
| Number of Players Jumped Over |
7 |
| Catching the Ball |
In mid-air |
| Dunking Motion |
Two-handed slam |
| Score |
50/50 |
Wilkins’ dunk was a combination of power, athleticism, creativity, and showmanship. It is still considered one of the greatest dunk contest dunks of all time, and it helped him become a legend in the NBA.
Jordan’s Iconic “Free Throw Line” Dunk
Michael Jordan’s iconic “Free Throw Line” dunk, executed during the 1988 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, remains one of the most unforgettable moments in basketball history. With his signature style and athleticism, Jordan captivated the audience by soaring from the free-throw line and completing a spectacular slam dunk.
The Free Throw Line Dunk is recognized not only for its athleticism but also for its iconic pose. As Jordan released the ball, his body was fully extended, creating a timeless silhouette that has become synonymous with the dunk contest.
The Execution
Jordan’s flawless execution of the dunk was a testament to his exceptional abilities. He started by dribbling from beyond the free-throw line, then took two powerful steps before leaping into the air. His vertical leap was so immense that he cleared the line by a significant margin.
At the peak of his jump, Jordan tucked his legs and extended his arms, creating an optimal aerodynamic position. With perfect timing, he released the ball just before reaching the basket, ensuring a clean and powerful slam dunk.
The Impact
Jordan’s “Free Throw Line” dunk had a profound impact on the NBA Slam Dunk Contest. It set a new standard for athleticism and creativity, inspiring future generations of players to push the boundaries of the competition.
Beyond the dunk contest, it became an iconic moment in sports history, captivating fans worldwide and solidifying Jordan’s status as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
The Dunk in Numbers
| Attribute |
Value |
| Distance from Free-Throw Line |
36 inches (91.44 cm) |
| Vertical Leap Height |
42 inches (106.68 cm) |
| Hang Time |
0.92 seconds |
Spud Webb’s Monumental Slam
Atlanta Hawks guard Spud Webb made history at the 1986 slam dunk contest, becoming the shortest player to ever win the competition. Webb stood at just 5’7″, but he soared over his taller opponents, showcasing his incredible athleticism and determination.
Webb’s most memorable dunk was his final attempt, where he jumped over 7’1″ Chicago Bulls center Dominique Wilkins. Wilkins had just completed a perfect score on his own dunk, but Webb stole the show with his stunning leap. He took off from the free throw line, soared over Wilkins, and slammed the ball home with a resounding thud, earning a perfect 50 score from the judges.
Webb’s dunk not only won him the competition but also cemented his place in basketball history. It became an iconic moment that proved that anything is possible with enough skill and determination. The dunk has been replayed countless times and continues to inspire athletes and fans alike.
| Player |
Year |
Score |
| Spud Webb |
1986 |
50 |
| Dominique Wilkins |
1986 |
49 |
| Michael Jordan |
1988 |
49 |
The 50 Cent Piece
Vince Carter’s iconic dunk over Frédéric Weis in the 2000 Dunk Contest is widely regarded as one of the greatest dunks of all time. It showcased Carter’s immense athleticism and creative flair.
Carter approached the free throw line with a 50-cent piece taped to Weis’ head. As he ran towards the basket, he leaped high and extended his arm fully towards the rim. With astonishing accuracy, Carter timed his jump to perfection, using Weis’ head as a target to guide his dunk.
The Setup
The setup for this dunk was meticulously planned. Carter wanted to create a unique and memorable moment that would leave a lasting impression. By taping the 50-cent piece to Weis’ head, Carter introduced an element of unpredictability and suspense.
The Execution
Carter’s execution of this dunk was nothing short of flawless. He generated incredible power and height, launching his body towards the rim with explosive force. His extension and timing were impeccable, allowing him to connect with Weis’ head at just the right moment.
The Impact
Carter’s 50-cent dunk sent shockwaves through the crowd and left an indelible mark on the history of the Dunk Contest. It established him as one of the most dominant and creative dunkers of all time, and it became an enduring symbol of his athletic brilliance.
| Dunk |
Dunk Contest |
Year |
| 50 Cent Piece |
NBA Dunk Contest |
2000 |
The Vince Carter Elbow Dunk
With the score tied at 85 and the Toronto crowd on its feet, Vince Carter took flight from the free-throw line and unleashed one of the most iconic dunks in NBA history. As he soared through the air, Carter tucked his right elbow in and extended his left arm towards the basket. The ball effortlessly glided through the net as the crowd erupted in deafening cheers. This legendary dunk not only won Carter the 2000 Slam Dunk Contest but also cemented his place in basketball lore. Here’s an in-depth analysis of this unforgettable moment:
The Approach
Vince Carter began his approach to the dunk from just inside the free-throw line, approximately 15 feet away from the basket. His initial stride was measured and calculated, allowing him to gather both speed and momentum.
The Leap
As Carter reached the top of his leap, his body formed an almost perfect horizontal line. His arms were fully extended, creating a wingspan of over 7 feet. His left arm was slightly higher than his right, providing additional lift and control.
The Tuck
The most iconic element of this dunk was Carter’s right elbow tuck. As he reached the apex of his jump, he tucked his right elbow in close to his body, reducing his wind resistance and allowing him to reach a greater height. This innovative technique became known as the “elbow tuck” and has been used by countless dunkers since.
The Extension
Once Carter had reached his peak, he extended his left arm towards the basket, guiding the ball through the air. His wrist was slightly bent, allowing him to control the trajectory of the ball and dunk it cleanly.
The Slam
Finally, as Carter descended towards the rim, he slammed the ball through the net with incredible force. The impact created a thunderous sound that reverberated throughout the arena.
The Reaction
The reaction to this dunk was nothing short of seismic. The Toronto crowd erupted in a frenzy of excitement, while Carter himself unleashed a primal roar of triumph. The dunk not only won him the contest but also became an instant classic, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest dunkers of all time.
Impact on the Game
Vince Carter’s elbow dunk revolutionized the dunk contest and set a new standard for dunking. It not only showcased his athleticism and creativity but also inspired a generation of dunkers to push the limits of their abilities. To this day, it remains one of the most iconic moments in NBA history and continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest dunks ever performed.
The Jason Richardson Spin Cycle
The legendary “Spin Cycle” of Jason Richardson was one of the most mesmerizing dunks in NBA history. This iconic dunk occurred in the 2000 NBA Slam Dunk Contest where Richardson took off from just inside the free-throw line, executing a mind-boggling 360-degree spin while cramming it home with two hands.
What made “The Spin Cycle” so extraordinary was not merely its difficulty but also its execution. Richardson launched himself from the free-throw line, beginning his spin high in the air. As he rotated, he tucked the ball behind his back, eluding defenders and creating an unforgettable visual spectacle. The ball swished through the net effortlessly, leaving both the crowd and judges in awe.
The Mechanics
The “Spin Cycle” was more than just a spectacular dunk; it was a testament to Richardson’s athleticism and creativity. Here’s a breakdown of the dunk’s mechanics:
- Launch: Richardson started his spin from approximately 17 feet away from the basket, just inside the free-throw line.
- Rotation: He completed a full 360-degree turn in mid-air, tucking the ball behind his back during the rotation.
- Extension: Richardson extended his arm towards the basket as he completed his spin, slamming the ball through the hoop.
- Timing: The dunk’s timing was impeccable, allowing Richardson to execute the spin while maintaining control of the ball.
| Score |
Judges |
| 48 points |
All 5 judges scored a perfect 10 on the dunk |
The Gerald Green “G-Time” Dunk
The Gerald Green “G-Time” dunk is widely regarded as one of the most iconic and memorable dunks in the history of the NBA Slam Dunk Contest. Executed in 2007, this dunk showcased Green’s incredible athleticism, creativity, and showmanship.
The dunk consisted of Green leaping over a stationary ladder that was set up perpendicular to the basket. As he approached the basket, Green grabbed the ball with his right hand, flipped his body over the ladder in a 360-degree rotation, and slammed the ball down with his left hand. The combination of the complex maneuver, the height of the jump, and the force of the dunk left the crowd in awe.
The “G-Time” dunk earned Green a perfect score of 50 and set a new standard for creativity and execution in the Dunk Contest. It remains a defining moment in his career and is still celebrated today as one of the greatest dunks of all time.
Here is a detailed breakdown of the dunk’s execution:
| Step |
Action |
| 1 |
Green jumps over the ladder, grabbing the ball with his right hand. |
| 2 |
Green flips his body over the ladder in a 360-degree rotation. |
| 3 |
Green grabs the ball with his left hand and slams it down with force. |
The Blake Griffin Stadium Dunker
In 2011, Blake Griffin took the dunk contest world by storm with his astonishing stadium dunker dunk. This gravity-defying feat involved Griffin leaping over a parked Kia sedan, soaring through the air, and effortlessly dunking the ball. He had measured the stadium before the contest to ensure that there would be enough height and distance for this ambitious dunk. The crowd erupted in a frenzy of excitement and astonishment, and the dunk has since become a legendary moment in dunk contest history.
Key Details:
| Element |
Description |
| Car |
2011 Kia Optima |
| Height |
Over 9 feet |
| Distance |
Over 20 feet |
| Aftermath |
Perfect 50 score from the judges |
Griffin’s stadium dunker was more than just a spectacular athletic achievement. It was a calculated and executed feat of precision and audacity. The dunk not only showcased Griffin’s immense physical abilities but also his unwavering confidence and determination to push the boundaries of what was possible in a dunk contest.
The Greatest Dunk Contest Dunks of All Time
The NBA Slam Dunk Contest is one of the most popular and iconic events in basketball. Every year, the best dunkers in the world compete for the title of champion. Over the years, there have been some truly amazing dunks in the contest, but which ones are the best of all time? Here’s a list of the top 5 dunk contest dunks of all time:
- Michael Jordan’s free throw line dunk (1988): This is perhaps the most iconic dunk in NBA history. Jordan took off from just inside the free throw line and soared through the air to dunk the ball with authority.
- Vince Carter’s windmill dunk over Frederic Weis (2000): Carter’s dunk was one of the most gravity-defying dunks ever seen. He took off from just inside the free throw line and windmilled the ball over the 7’2″ Weis.
- Jason Richardson’s between-the-legs dunk (2003): Richardson’s dunk was one of the most creative dunks ever seen. He took off from just inside the free throw line and put the ball between his legs before dunking it with authority.
- LeBron James’ dunk over Kevin Garnett (2008): James’ dunk was one of the most powerful dunks ever seen. He took off from just inside the free throw line and dunked the ball over the 6’11” Garnett with authority.
- Zach LaVine’s dunk over Aaron Gordon (2016): LaVine’s dunk was one of the most recent and most impressive dunks in the contest. He took off from just inside the free throw line and dunked the ball over the 6’9″ Gordon with authority.
These are just a few of the many great dunks that have been seen in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest over the years. With so many amazing dunks to choose from, it’s hard to say definitively which one is the best. However, these five dunks are certainly among the most iconic and memorable in the contest’s history.
People Also Ask
What is the best dunk contest dunk of all time?
There is no definitive answer to this question, but many people consider Michael Jordan’s free throw line dunk from the 1988 contest to be the best dunk of all time.
Who has the most dunk contest wins?
Michael Jordan and Dominique Wilkins are tied for the most dunk contest wins, with four each.
Who is the youngest player to win the dunk contest?
Kobe Bryant is the youngest player to win the dunk contest, which he did in 1997 at the age of 18.
