Indiana Pacers Finalize Multiyear Deal with Three-Time Slam Dunk Champion Mac McClung Amid Injury Crisis

The Indiana Pacers have reportedly secured three-time NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion Mac McClung on a multiyear contract, a move that marks the guard’s first standard NBA agreement, according to ESPN. The signing necessitates a roster adjustment, with the Pacers reportedly waiving former No. 2 overall draft pick James Wiseman to create the necessary roster spot. This strategic acquisition comes as the Pacers navigate a challenging start to their season, grappling with a significant number of key player injuries.

McClung, a 26-year-old guard who went undrafted out of Texas Tech in 2021, has carved an unconventional path through professional basketball. Despite his high-flying reputation and collegiate notoriety, his NBA experience has been limited to a mere six games across four franchises: the Orlando Magic, Philadelphia 76ers, Chicago Bulls, and Los Angeles Lakers. In these brief stints, he has averaged 5.5 points, 2.2 assists, and 2.3 rebounds per contest, shooting 43% from the field. His journey underscores the perseverance often required for players to transition from G-League prominence to a guaranteed NBA roster spot.

McClung’s most significant contributions and development have been showcased in the NBA G League, where he has consistently demonstrated his scoring prowess, playmaking ability, and elite athleticism. During the 2023-24 season, he was named the NBA G League MVP while playing for the Osceola Magic, a testament to his all-around performance and leadership. That season, McClung averaged an impressive 25.7 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 6.6 assists per game over 32 appearances, demonstrating a clear ability to impact the game offensively. His G-League success extends beyond a single season, as he has also earned All-NBA G League First Team honors in each of the last two seasons, including the 2022-23 campaign with the Delaware Blue Coats where he posted 17.4 points and 5.8 assists per game, further solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s top developmental talents. This consistent high-level performance in the G League has been instrumental in earning him this long-sought-after standard NBA contract.

However, it is McClung’s unparalleled success in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest that has truly cemented his place in basketball culture and captivated fans globally. In 2023, while on a two-way contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, McClung was invited to participate in the prestigious event. He delivered a performance that many lauded as revitalizing the contest, recording perfect 50s on all but one of his spectacular dunks, ultimately defeating Trey Murphy III in the final. His acrobatic displays and innovative dunks immediately made him a fan favorite. He returned in 2024 to defend his title, once again emerging victorious, showcasing a blend of power and creativity that set him apart. In a historic achievement, McClung then became the first player in NBA history to win the dunk contest three years in a row in 2025. This feat places him in an exclusive category alongside Nate Robinson, who also won the contest three times, though not consecutively. McClung’s consistent excellence in the event highlights his extraordinary athleticism and has kept him in the spotlight despite his limited NBA minutes.

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The decision to sign McClung comes at a pivotal moment for the Indiana Pacers, who are currently navigating a challenging 0-3 start to their season. This early struggle stands in stark contrast to their highly successful previous campaign, which saw them finish with a 50-32 record and remarkably advance to the NBA Finals. The team’s unexpected slump can largely be attributed to a significant rash of injuries that has depleted their roster, particularly in the backcourt and on the wing.

The most critical absence is that of All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton, who suffered a torn Achilles tendon in June and is expected to miss the entire season. Haliburton was the undisputed orchestrator of the Pacers’ high-octane offense, and his absence leaves a monumental void in both playmaking and scoring. Compounding this loss are several other key players currently sidelined. Bennedict Mathurin, a promising young guard known for his scoring punch, is dealing with a toe injury. Forward Obi Toppin, a dynamic frontcourt presence, is out with a hamstring issue. Andrew Nembhard, another crucial backcourt contributor, is recovering from a shoulder injury. Additionally, Taelon Peter (groin) and rookie Johnny Furphy (foot) are also currently nursing injuries. This extensive list of unavailable players has forced the Pacers’ hand in seeking immediate roster reinforcements, particularly for guard depth and an injection of offensive energy.

McClung’s multiyear contract suggests that the Pacers view him as more than just a temporary fill-in. His G-League MVP season showcased an ability to handle primary ball-handling duties, distribute, and score efficiently. While his NBA sample size is small, the Pacers are likely banking on his proven offensive capabilities and exceptional athleticism to provide a spark, especially given the current injury crisis. His dynamic style could potentially fit into the Pacers’ fast-paced offensive system, offering a new dimension to their attack and providing much-needed depth in a depleted backcourt. For McClung, this represents a crucial opportunity to establish himself as a consistent NBA player, moving beyond the label of a dunk contest specialist.

The Pacers will look to turn their fortunes around when they return to action this Wednesday. They are scheduled to travel to Dallas to take on the Mavericks, a formidable Western Conference opponent led by All-Stars Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. The addition of McClung, even with his limited NBA experience, could offer a fresh perspective and much-needed energy as Indiana seeks its first victory of the season and aims to stabilize its roster amidst unprecedented challenges.