Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes and San Antonio Spurs rookie Carter Bryant have officially accepted invitations to the 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported on Thursday. The event is part of All-Star weekend in Los Angeles from February 13–15 at the Intuit Dome.
Hayes, 25, has appeared in 38 games for the Lakers this season, averaging 6.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 0.8 assists in 17.7 minutes per game. He has posted an impressive 77.3% field-goal percentage, showcasing his efficiency around the rim and explosive leaping ability.
Bryant, 20, is in his rookie season with the Spurs and has played 37 games, averaging 2.5 points and 1.7 rebounds in 8.1 minutes per game. Despite limited playing time, his athleticism and creativity have caught the attention of league officials, earning him a spot in the dunk competition.
The Slam Dunk Contest will be held on Saturday, February 14, as part of the NBA All-Star Saturday events, which also feature the Skills Challenge and Three-Point Contest.
Past contests have produced memorable highlights, with Mac McClung winning the competition from 2023 to 2025.
The Lakers currently hold a 28-18 record, sitting sixth in the Western Conference, while the Spurs are 32-15 and second in the West.
