Jaxson Hayes had a shot at making some All-Star Weekend history for the Lakers, but the 2026 AT&T Slam Dunk Contest didn’t quite go his way.
The 7-footer, who’s been quietly putting in solid minutes off the bench for the Lakers this season, was a surprise entry into this year’s dunk contest. But if you’ve been watching closely, you know Hayes has some serious bounce.
Just ask the Chicago Bulls, who were on the wrong end of a highlight a few nights ago when Hayes threw down a between-the-legs jam-an homage to Isaiah Rider’s iconic “East Bay Funk Dunk” from the 1994 contest. That moment turned heads and added some buzz around what he might bring to the dunk contest stage.
Lakers fans, understandably, were hoping Hayes might channel that same energy on Saturday night and become the first Laker to win the event since a young Kobe Bryant took the crown back in 1997. That’s a long drought for a franchise known for its star power and flair.
But Hayes’ first dunk didn’t land the way he-or the crowd-hoped. He started his run from the far end of the court, building up momentum, but the finish lacked the wow factor.
A basic one-foot takeoff just outside the dotted line and a standard flush. Clean, sure.
But in a contest built on creativity and shock value, it came off flat.
To his credit, Hayes bounced back on his second attempt. This time, he tossed the ball up to himself, caught it mid-air, and went between the legs before slamming it home.
It was a much more ambitious effort and a clear nod to the dunk that had earned him attention earlier in the week. But despite the improved execution, it wasn’t enough to move him into the final round.
The night ultimately belonged to Keshad Johnson, the high-flying forward out of Miami. Johnson edged out San Antonio Spurs rookie Carter Bryant in the final round to take home the trophy. Johnson’s blend of power, hang time, and creativity gave him the edge in a contest that, while not overflowing with star names, still delivered its share of electric moments.
As for Hayes, his appearance may not have ended in victory, but he gave fans a glimpse of his athletic upside on a national stage. And for a Lakers team looking to build depth behind its stars, that’s not a bad takeaway.