- Jase Richardson (Orlando) is one of four participants in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest on Feb. 14.
- Keshad Johnson (Miami Heat), Carter Bryant and Jaxson Hayes complete the field.
- Pistons center Jalen Duren will not take part in the dunk contest but is an All-Star reserve alongside Cade Cunningham.
Who’s in the Slam Dunk Contest?
The NBA has announced the four contestants for the Slam Dunk Contest during All-Star Weekend on Feb. 14. The field: former Michigan State standout Jase Richardson (Orlando Magic), Keshad Johnson (Miami Heat), Carter Bryant (San Antonio Spurs) and Jaxson Hayes (Los Angeles Lakers).
Richardson, drafted 25th overall by Orlando in the 2025 NBA Draft, has become a buzzed-about rookie. He’s played 36 games for the Magic this season, averaging 12.0 minutes, 5.1 points and 1.2 assists. Richardson is shooting 46.9% on two-point attempts and 35.5% from three on 62 attempts — numbers that helped earn him a spot in the dunk competition.
Keshad Johnson’s inclusion gives the Heat a presence in the showcase. Johnson’s athleticism and high-flying potential make him a natural fit for the contest, joining an eclectic group that blends young wings and athletic bigs.
Why Jalen Duren isn’t competing
The Pistons’ young center Jalen Duren won’t participate in the dunk contest, contrary to earlier reports. Instead, Duren will appear at All-Star Weekend as a league All-Star reserve — the first All-Star nod of his career.
Duren is enjoying a breakout season, averaging 17.7 points on 63.0% shooting (sixth-best in the NBA) and 10.5 rebounds per game. He’s been dealing with a sore right knee recently and missed the Pistons’ win over the Knicks, which likely influenced the decision for him to skip the dunk contest and preserve his health for the All-Star game.
Duren and Cunningham represent the Pistons
Cade Cunningham was voted a starter for the All-Star Game, and he will join Duren as part of the Pistons’ representation. Both players will play for coach J.B. Bickerstaff on the USA Stars team under the NBA’s new All-Star format.
What to expect at the contest
This year’s dunk contest pairs Richardson’s collegiate highlight-reel background with established entertainers like Hayes and rising slasher Carter Bryant. Fans can expect a mix of creativity, athleticism and staged flair. The event is scheduled for Feb. 14 during the league’s All-Star Weekend, and it will be a focal point for the midseason festivities.
The announcement underscores the league’s blend of rookies and established players in All-Star events while confirming Duren’s role on the USA Stars roster. For Pistons fans, the weekend will be a chance to see Cunningham and Duren on a national stage, even as Duren skips the dunk competition to manage his knee.
Stay tuned for dunk order and competition rules as the NBA releases additional details ahead of All-Star Weekend.
Image Referance: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nba/pistons/2026/02/07/msus-jase-richardson-in-nba-slam-dunk-contest-pistons-jalen-duren-not-participating/88566124007/