NBA Legends Call on Bronny James to Enter Slam Dunk Contest, Citing Star Power and Hollywood Appeal

The NBA Slam Dunk Contest has struggled in recent years to attract elite star power, but a trio of basketball legends believes they may have found the perfect solution—Bronny James.

During a recent postgame broadcast on NBA on NBC, retired superstars Carmelo Anthony, Tracy McGrady, and Vince Carter discussed their wish list for All-Star Weekend participants. While Carter offered a handful of realistic names, the conversation took an unexpected turn when both McGrady and Anthony floated Bronny James as their “dream candidate” to revive interest in the dunk contest.

And their reasoning was simple: location, spotlight, and name recognition.

“Listen, we going to Los Angeles, we going to La La Land, Hollywood,” McGrady said.
“When we’re in Hollywood, there’s got to be a name that really just brings everyone out—someone everybody wants to see. We need Bronny James. That’s the name.”

Why Bronny James Would Draw Massive Attention

There’s no denying the star power attached to Bronny James.

As the son of LeBron James and a member of the Los Angeles Lakers, Bronny carries a level of visibility rarely seen for a young role player. While his on-court role remains limited, his presence alone generates headlines—and that’s exactly what the dunk contest has been missing.

Anthony and McGrady emphasized that All-Star Weekend is as much about entertainment as competition, and with the festivities taking place in Los Angeles, the opportunity for spectacle is obvious.

Even though the Los Angeles Clippers are officially hosting the weekend, Lakers fans—and casual NBA fans in general—would undoubtedly tune in to see Bronny step onto the biggest individual stage of the event.

Is Bronny a Realistic Dunk Contest Participant?

From a basketball standpoint, the idea isn’t as far-fetched as it might sound.

Bronny has flashed impressive athleticism in limited NBA minutes and during practice sessions, showcasing explosive leaping ability and creativity above the rim. He wouldn’t be the first young or lightly-used rotation player to participate in the dunk contest—many past competitors entered before becoming household names.

In fact, the contest has increasingly relied on younger, less-established players as top stars have declined invitations. From that perspective, Bronny fits the modern mold.

Other rumored names, such as VJ Edgecombe and Ja Morant, remain popular fan requests. Edgecombe would represent the traditional high-flying rookie option, while Morant would bring elite star appeal—if he ever agrees to participate. If those names don’t materialize, Bronny James could be a compelling alternative.

The Risk Factor: Pressure and Expectations

Of course, the downside is obvious.

Entering the dunk contest would place enormous expectations on Bronny. A lackluster performance would likely draw harsh criticism and online ridicule, particularly given the spotlight that follows the James family. That pressure alone could be enough to keep him from accepting an invitation.

However, a strong showing—or even a surprise victory—could significantly boost Bronny’s credibility around the league. It would give him a moment to define himself outside of his father’s shadow and create his own narrative.

Support From the NBA’s Old Guard

Carmelo Anthony’s comments also carry added weight given his close relationship with LeBron James and the James family. His call for Bronny to participate appeared more supportive than sensational, framed as an opportunity rather than a stunt.

Anthony, McGrady, and Carter all understand what it means to perform on the All-Star stage—and what kind of momentum it can generate for a young player’s career.

Could Bronny Help Save the Dunk Contest?

In recent years, the three-point contest has routinely overshadowed the dunk contest, largely due to stronger star participation. NBA commissioner Adam Silver has openly expressed a desire to bring excitement back to the event.

While landing multiple All-Stars would be ideal, Bronny James represents a different kind of draw—one rooted in intrigue, celebrity, and storyline rather than résumé.

He may not yet be a star on the court, but few players could generate more buzz.

Whether Bronny ultimately accepts such a challenge remains to be seen. But with NBA legends publicly calling his name, the idea has officially entered the conversation—and that alone has already brought more attention to the dunk contest than it’s had in years.