Stephen A. Smith blames LeBron James for ruining NBA’s Dunk Contest, citing Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant & more
The 2023 NBA All-Star Weekend has come to an end, but discussions surrounding the events in Salt Lake City are still ongoing.
The NBA slam dunk contest has been an easy target for slander in recent years for its lack of star power and unconvincing performances, but G Leaguer Mac McClung appeared to have revived the All-Star Saturday Night main event last weekend. At least according to most people.
McClung rocked Vivint Arena on Saturday, delivering three perfect 50s to take home the crown of the slam dunk contest.
MORE: NBA world reacts to Mac McClung’s performance in slam dunk contest
Everyone from Stephen Curry to Magic Johnson claimed McClung saved the dunk contest, but ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith had different feelings about what he saw Saturday.
When asked on First Take if he thought McClung saved the dunk contest, Smith wasn’t so optimistic, blaming LeBron James for ruining the once-holy All-Star event.
“No, I think (McClung) was great. I think he deserves all the credit in the world. But he won’t divert our attention from the big problem,” Smith began.
“The superstars are what the NBA All-Star Weekend was supposed to be about, but where were the superstars in the slam dunk contest? We didn’t see any,” he continued.
“…We don’t say it often enough. We applauded LeBron James as a four-time champion, four-time league MVP, 10 trips to the NBA Finals. I have it on my Mt Rushmore, #2 all time. Incredible ambassador for the game of basketball. Incredible role model. Now the all-time top scorer. All the superlatives we throw at LeBron James – totally well deserved. I adore this man, we will miss him when he’s gone,” Smith explained in making his point.
“But there is one flaw that should be in LeBron James’ career – he ruined the slam dunk contest. He is personally responsible.”
Smith further cited superstars such as Julius Erving, Michael Jordan, Dominique Wilkins, Kobe Bryant, Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady, all of whom attended at least a slam dunk contest during her career in the Hall of Fame.
MORE: Jayson Tatum honors his idol by winning Kobe Bryant All-Star Game MVP
“LeBron ignored that commitment, he said, ‘No, I don’t do it,'” Smith added. “Year after year since he made that decision, we’ve seen the breakup of stars competing in the slam dunk contest.
“…Because of him, others found it okay to follow him, and that’s why the slam dunk contest isn’t what it used to be.”
Check out Smith’s full “First Take” rant in all its glory below.