The stage is set for a high-flying spectacle in the City of Angels as the midseason festivities approach. According to league sources, Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes and San Antonio Spurs rookie Carter Bryant have officially accepted invitations to participate in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest during the 2026 All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles. As the NBA returns to one of its most iconic markets, the addition of these two explosive athletes promises to bring elite verticality to the Saturday night lineup.
Jaxson Hayes: The Hometown High-Flyer
For Jaxson Hayes, this invitation represents a unique opportunity to showcase his elite athleticism on a global stage while representing the home crowd in Los Angeles. Standing at 7 feet tall, Hayes is not your traditional dunk contest participant, but he possesses a rare combination of length, speed, and coordination that often leads to breathtaking finishes. Since entering the league, Hayes has established himself as one of the most dangerous lob threats in professional basketball.
The Return of the Big Man
His inclusion in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest is a calculated move by the league to reintroduce the "big man" dynamic to the competition. While the event has been dominated by guards and wings in recent years, Hayes’ ability to play well above the rim provides a different aesthetic. During his career with the New Orleans Pelicans and the Lakers, Hayes has consistently ranked among the league leaders in dunk frequency, often finishing plays that seem physically impossible for a player of his stature.
Carter Bryant: The Rookie Wildcard
Joining Hayes is Carter Bryant, the San Antonio Spurs’ highly touted rookie. Bryant’s inclusion continues the NBA's recent trend of inviting young, hungry talent to the showcase event to inject new energy into the competition. Known for his explosive first step and incredible hang time, Bryant was a standout performer before making the jump to the NBA. For the Spurs, having a representative in the contest provides a national spotlight for the franchise’s evolving roster of young talent.
Scouting the Rookie's Bounce
While rookies often face immense pressure in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest, Bryant’s scouting report suggests he is more than ready for the 2026 contest. Scouts have long praised his "easy" bounce—the ability to get his head at rim level with minimal effort. As he prepares to face off against established veterans, Bryant will likely look to utilize his creativity and youth to win over the Los Angeles crowd. His participation adds an element of the unknown, as fans are eager to see the choreographed routines the young star has been developing.
The Significance of All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles
The 2026 All-Star Weekend is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated events in recent memory. By hosting the event in Los Angeles, the NBA is leaning into the glamour and star power inherent to the city. The NBA Slam Dunk Contest remains the crown jewel of All-Star Saturday Night, and the league is focused on delivering a memorable show for the global audience.
Key Dynamics for the 2026 Field
The selection of Hayes and Bryant indicates a shift toward featuring players with genuine in-game dunking prowess. Several factors will define this year's competition:
- Home Court Advantage: Hayes will undoubtedly have the backing of the Lakers faithful at the arena.
- Size vs. Versatility: The contrast between a 7-footer like Hayes and a versatile wing like Bryant offers different styles for the judges to evaluate.
- Brand Elevation: Both players have the chance to significantly elevate their personal brands with a standout performance on a national stage.
What to Expect from the Remaining Participants
While Hayes and Bryant are the first participants to be reported, the NBA is expected to round out the four-player field with more high-octane talent in the coming days. The NBA Slam Dunk Contest has a storied history of launching careers into the stratosphere, and the 2026 event aims to continue that legacy. For Hayes, a win would cement his status as one of the premier athletes in Lakers history. For Bryant, it serves as a "coming out party" to introduce his game to casual fans who may not have seen much of the Spurs' rookie early in the season.
Sources & Original Reporting
