For 50 years, the dunk contest, whether in the ABA or the NBA, has been a part of basketball culture. Names like Julius Erving, Michael Jordan, and now Mac McClung became legendary during the exhibition, drawing millions of fans. At the same time, those who don’t win a dunk contest, if they are not superstars during games, actually fall by the wayside.
Chicago Bulls forward Matas Buzelis isn’t a household name, but he appears to be on the way to carving out a strong career. Meanwhile, he sat down for a podcast interview about the dunk contest and his quiet plan.
Bulls SF Matas Buzelis Discusses Subtle Plan During Dunk Contest
Traditionally, the Saturday night before the annual All-Star Game features various competitions. From shooting to ball handling, the event generates buzz. Yet, the dunk contest is the marquee event.
In the 2025 contest, the Bulls forward took a chance. Buzelis, as a guest on “The Kick Club” podcast, discussed his attempt to make money during the event.
“Let’s talk about it. The night before the dinner.. everyone was there, and the AT&T guys walk up to me and were like ‘Yo, you pick up the blue ball and dunk with it, you get ten grand, every time you do it.”
According to Spotrac, Buzelis signed a contract with an average annual value of $5,987,681. While that is a substantial amount of money, the ability to grab ten thousand dollars for dunking a ball during the contest intrigued him.
On his first dunk, Buzelis missed. However, on his second dunk with the AT&T ball, he connected, presumably taking away $10,000. Before that, the Chicago product felt like the special ball lacked elasticity.
“I walked out there and did that bull**** that I hit every time. Nah, I am changing the ball.”
Instead of seeking a payday, the forward thought about using a regular basketball. However, another competitor changed his mind.
“I’m walking off and Mac McClung is going next. He pulled out a Kia and sh*t. I’m like, ‘ I’m picking that blue ball up every time.”
Buzelis knew that after McClung jumped over a car, his chances to win the dunk contest dissipated. As a result, he went for the consolation prize of $10,000. McClung ended up winning the contest, becoming the first player in NBA history to win the contest for three consecutive seasons.
Meanwhile, Buzelis looks to continue as a building block for the Bulls. The team drafted Caleb Wilson, who profiles as their franchise player, potentially opening scoring opportunities for Buzelis beyond the arc and at the rim.
