The 25 Best Slam Dunkers To Never Play an NBA Game.
The NBA has produced some of the most iconic dunkers in basketball history, with players like Michael Jordan, Vince Carter, and LeBron James etching their names into the annals of basketball lore. However, some jaw-dropping dunkers never had the chance to step onto an NBA court. Whether due to injury, lack of opportunity, or simply falling short in the draft, these athletes showcased incredible leaping ability and high-flying dunks, often on the streets or in lower-tier leagues. In this article, we’ll take a look at the 25 best dunkers to never play in the NBA and the unforgettable moments they created.
In this article, we delve into the stories of 25 remarkable dunkers who, despite their extraordinary talents, never played in the NBA.
1. "Jumpin" Jackie Jackson
Known for his incredible leaping ability, Jumping Jack was one of the most fearsome dunkers to never play in the NBA. Standing at 6'5", his athleticism allowed him to play well above the rim, earning him a reputation in the basketball community.
In fact, legend has it that Jumping Jack was the only player to ever block a dunk from the great Wilt Chamberlain. According to Jackson, he recalls a college encounter: "When I was in college, I was working for the PAL and Manigault came through as a young kid and challenged me. I think I beat him like 15 to nothing. He was supposed to be a leaper, but I blocked all his stuff." This encounter with the future basketball legend adds to the mystique of Jumping Jack’s status as one of the best dunkers to never grace an NBA court.
2. Terrane Fountaine "Mr. 720" "The Air Up There"
Standing at 6'2", Taurian Fontenette, aka "Air Up There," is renowned for his gravity-defying dunks. His most iconic move is the 720-degree dunk—two full rotations in the air before slamming the ball through the hoop. This jaw-dropping feat was first showcased during an AND1 Mixtape Tour game in Houston in 2006, earning him the nickname "Mr. 720"
Fontenette's leaping ability and creativity have made him a standout in streetball and dunk contests. He won the 2010 Sprite Slam Dunk Contest and has been featured in various dunk mixtapes, showcasing his signature moves like the 360 reverse dunk and the axle-rider.
3. Michael "The Animal" "Wild Thing" Wilson
Michael Wilson, known as "Wild Thing," is a former Harlem Globetrotter and University of Memphis standout. At 6'5", he set the Guinness World Record for the highest basketball slam dunk at 12 feet (3.65 meters) during Final Four Weekend in April 2000.
Wilson's vertical leap was exceptional, with reports indicating a 55-inch jump. During his senior year at Memphis, he won 24 out of 30 opening tip-offs. He joined the Harlem Globetrotters in 1996, playing for 11 seasons and traveling to nearly 60 countries. He was a two-time slam dunk champion at the NABC College All-Star Game
4. Ronnie Fields
Standing at 6'3" with a reported 50-inch vertical leap, Ronnie Fields was a high school basketball sensation at Farragut Academy in Chicago during the mid-1990s. His explosive leaping ability and gravity-defying dunks earned him the nickname "Baby Jordan," drawing comparisons to the legendary Michael Jordan.
Fields' most iconic dunk came during a game against Peoria Manual, where he leaped over 6'4" Sergio McClain for a jaw-dropping slam. This moment solidified his status as one of the most electrifying dunkers in high school basketball history.
Despite his on-court success, Fields' promising career was derailed by a car accident in February 1996, resulting in a fractured neck. Although he made a brief return to the court, he never reached the NBA. Nonetheless, his legacy as a dunking legend lives on, inspiring future generations of basketball players.
5. Earl “The Goat” Manigault
Earl Manigault, known as "The Goat," was a 6'1" dynamo who redefined what was possible on a basketball court. In the 1960s, he became a playground legend in New York City, particularly at the Happy Warrior Playground on Amsterdam Avenue and West 99th Street, which came to be known as "Goat Park." His leaping ability was so extraordinary that he could reportedly pick a quarter off the top of the backboard—a feat that captivated fans and solidified his status as a basketball icon.
Manigault's most iconic move was the "Double Dunk." Allegedly, he would dunk the ball with one hand, catch it while still in the air, and dunk it again with the other hand—all in a single leap and without hanging on the rim. While this move remains part of his legend, it's important to note that some accounts, including Manigault's own, have cast doubt on its authenticity
6. Michael Conley
Standing at 6'1", Michael Conley Sr. was an Olympic gold medalist in the triple jump, renowned for his explosive leaping ability. His athleticism extended beyond track and field, as he showcased impressive dunking skills during the 1980s and 1990s.
In the 1996 Foot Locker Slam Fest, Conley executed a remarkable dunk from behind the free-throw line, a feat that garnered significant attention. This performance highlighted his exceptional jumping prowess and solidified his reputation as a versatile athlete.
7. Justin 'Jus Fly' Darlington,
Standing at 6'4" with a reported vertical leap of up to 53 inches, Justin Darlington, known as "Jus Fly," has established himself as one of the premier dunkers in the world. Hailing from Ajax, Ontario, Canada, Jus Fly has captivated audiences globally with his gravity-defying dunks and acrobatic prowess.
His most iconic move came during the 2012 Nike World Basketball Festival in Washington, D.C., where he executed a cartwheel followed by a between-the-legs dunk. This jaw-dropping display left judges LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Diana Taurasi, and Bobbito Garcia in awe, earning him the championship title.
Beyond his impressive feats, Jus Fly has competed in numerous dunk contests worldwide, including events in Los Angeles, Paris, and Bucharest, consistently pushing the boundaries of what's possible on the basketball court .
8. T-Dub
T-Dub gained widespread recognition through his appearances with Team Flight Brothers, a group of elite dunkers. His performances, particularly his gravity-defying dunks, have captivated audiences worldwide. Notably, he won a legendary dunk contest in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 2010, competing against other renowned dunkers like Jus Fly and Rudeboi. The contest featured a series of jaw-dropping dunks, culminating in T-Dub's victory.
In addition to his contest victories, T-Dub's dunking prowess has been showcased in various videos, further solidifying his status as a premier dunker. His ability to perform complex dunks with precision and flair has earned him a dedicated following among basketball enthusiasts and dunk fans alike.
9. Jordan Kilganon
Jordan Kilganon, hailing from Sudbury, Ontario, is a 6'1" professional dunker renowned for his gravity-defying slams and innovative aerial displays. Starting his dunking journey at age 15, he quickly gained recognition within the dunking community for his unique style and creativity. Over time, Kilganon has become a prominent figure in the world of professional dunking.
One of his most iconic moves is the "Scorpion Dunk," where he performs a no-look, one-handed slam while spinning mid-air. This jaw-dropping maneuver has captivated audiences worldwide and solidified his status as a premier dunker. Additionally, he has developed other signature dunks, including the "Lost and Found" and the "360 Scoop Elbow," further showcasing his versatility and innovation.
Kilganon's dedication to the craft has led him to perform at various high-profile events, including the NBA All-Star Weekend and the 2016 Olympics in Rio, where his performances garnered widespread acclaim. His contributions to the sport have inspired countless aspiring dunkers and have elevated the art of dunking to new heights.
10. Guy Dupuy
Hailing from Paris, France, Guy Dupuy has established himself as one of the premier dunkers globally. Known for his gravity-defying leaps and innovative slams, Dupuy has captivated audiences worldwide with his aerial artistry.
In the 2018 FIBA 3x3 World Cup Dunk Contest, Dupuy showcased his exceptional skills by completing a behind-the-back one-handed dunk over three individuals and a windmill dunk over a group of six people. These performances earned him perfect scores of 30, highlighting his prowess and creativity .
Additionally, Dupuy gained widespread attention for his dunk over a car during an And1 Live Streetball Tour event in Poland. Adding a unique twist, he executed a between-the-legs dunk while soaring over the vehicle, setting him apart from other dunkers and solidifying his reputation as a trailblazer in the dunking community.
11. Hook Mitchell
Standing at 5'9", Demetrius “Hook” Mitchell was a streetball sensation from Oakland, California, renowned for his extraordinary leaping ability and acrobatic dunks. Despite his shorter stature, Hook's vertical leap and creativity on the court made him a legend in the Bay Area during the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Hook's most iconic move was his 360-degree dunk over a Honda Accord, a feat that left onlookers in awe and solidified his reputation as one of the most electrifying dunkers of his time. He also gained fame for shattering backboards with alley-oop dunks and performing 12-foot rim dunks, showcasing his exceptional athleticism and flair.
His talents were recognized by NBA legends such as Gary Payton and Jason Kidd, who both acknowledged Hook's superior skills. Payton once remarked, "He was better than all of us," referring to their shared experiences growing up in Oakland. Kidd added, "You actually could see the bottom of his sneakers," highlighting Hook's remarkable hang-time during dunks
12.Jimma Gettawich
Jimma Gatwech is a name that resonates with basketball enthusiasts, especially those who appreciate the art of dunking. Standing at 6'4", Gatwech's leaping ability and creativity on the court have made him one of the most electrifying high school dunkers in recent memory. Under-the-Legs Dunk: During an AAU game with Mudiay Elite, Gatwech executed a jaw-dropping under-the-legs dunk, reminiscent of Aaron Gordon's 2016 NBA Dunk Contest move. This in-game feat left spectators in awe and solidified his reputation as a top-tier dunker. Behind-the-Back Dunk: In a game against Blue Ridge School, Gatwech stole the ball and sprinted coast-to-coast. As he approached the basket, he performed a behind-the-back dunk, showcasing his flair and athleticism. SLAM Summer Classic Dunk Contest: At the SLAM Summer Classic, Gatwech competed against notable players like Jalen Green. His performance in the dunk contest was a testament to his creativity and leaping prowes Gatwech always has his famous around the legs dunk.
13. Deron Washington
Standing at 6'7" and weighing 205 lbs, Deron Washington was a standout forward for the Virginia Tech Hokies from 2004 to 2008. Known for his explosive leaping ability and electrifying dunks, he became a fan favorite and a staple on highlight reels during his college career.
In the 2008 State Farm College Slam Dunk Contest, Washington showcased his aerial prowess alongside other top college athletes. His participation in this event highlighted his reputation as one of the most dynamic leapers in college basketball at the time
14. Melvin Levett
Levett's journey to becoming "The Helicopter" began in eighth grade. During a summer game, he executed a windmill dunk that left his AAU coach, Tom Erzin, in awe. Erzin exclaimed, "Your name is The Helicopter!"—a moniker that stuck and became synonymous with Levett's soaring abilities.
Under coach Bob Huggins, Levett's role expanded, and he became a central figure in the Bearcats' lineup. In the 1997–98 season, Levett averaged 14.1 points per game, contributing significantly to UC's 27–6 record and a trip to the NCAA Tournament's second round.
Levett's most iconic moment came in the 1998 Great Alaska Shootout championship game against No. 1-ranked Duke. With three seconds remaining, Ryan Fletcher threw a three-quarter-court pass to Kenyon Martin, who lobbed it to Levett for a game-winning dunk, securing a 77–75 victory.
15. Ismail Muhammad
Isma'il Muhammad was a breathtaking athlete during his time at Georgia Tech, known for his explosive leaping ability and powerful dunks. Standing at 6'6" and weighing 228 lbs, Muhammad was a major force on both ends of the court, particularly noted for his acrobatic jams that frequently appeared on ESPN's Top 10 plays.
One of his most iconic moments came during a game against North Carolina State on February 13, 2005, when he dunked over NC State's Engin Atsür. This dunk was so impressive that it was later featured as one of the greatest dunks in NCAA basketball history.
16. Damon Powell
Damon Powell, a 6'6" forward from Oakland's McClymonds High School, gained significant recognition for his exceptional dunking abilities during his high school basketball career. In 2009, he clinched victory in the Sac vs. Bay Dunk Contest, an annual event showcasing top high school dunkers from the Sacramento and Bay Area regions. The contest featured notable participants such as Drew Gordon, Tyree McCarry, James Lake, Jovan Daniels, and NBA star Damian Lillard. Powell's performance was particularly memorable; he executed a flawless dunk over a participant, earning him the crowd's admiration. Powell's legacy as one of the most electrifying dunkers in high school basketball history continues to be celebrated, particularly in Oakland, where his performances inspired a generation of basketball enthusiasts.
17. John "The Helicopter" Humphrey
During his college years, he gained national attention for his dunking prowess, finishing second in the NCAA Final Four Dunk Contest.
In 2003, Humphrey was discovered by AND1 during a stop in Raleigh, North Carolina, and subsequently joined the AND1 Mixtape Tour. His high-flying dunks and charismatic style made him a fan favorite, and he toured with the team for several years.
Beyond his streetball career, Humphrey played professionally in Japan's bj-League, where he became the all-time leading scorer and steals leader. In 2012, he won the bj-League All-Star Game Dunk Contest, further solidifying his reputation as one of the premier dunkers in basketball history
18. Wailly "Main Event" Dixon
Waliyy Dixon, known as "Main Event," is a renowned streetball legend celebrated for his gravity-defying dunks and explosive athleticism. Standing 6'4" and weighing 225 pounds, Dixon's leaping ability and creative flair on the court earned him national recognition. His athleticism was evident from a young age. At Linden High School in New Jersey, he became the school's all-time leading scorer with 1,760 points and won the Reebok National Slam Dunk Contest, showcasing his impressive leaping ability and creativity on the court.
Dixon's big break came when a videotape of the Entertainer's Basketball Classic at Harlem's Rucker Park, featuring his jaw-dropping moves, was discovered by AND1 representatives. This footage became part of the AND1 Mixtape Volume One, giving national exposure to streetball and propelling Dixon into the spotlight. In 1999, he worked with AND1 to host the original AND1 Mixtape game at his home court in Linden, attracting over 2,000 spectators. Dixon toured with the AND1 Mixtape Tour from 2001 through 2006, captivating audiences with his high-flying dunks and charismatic style.
19. Jameel Pugh
Jameel Pugh, known as "Superman" in Sacramento, is a legendary high school dunker whose name became synonymous with gravity-defying slams. Standing 6'4" and weighing 210 pounds, Pugh's athleticism was unparalleled. He won 15 consecutive high school dunk contests, showcasing his incredible leaping ability and creativity on the court.
In 1999, SLAM Magazine dubbed him "The World's Greatest Dunker," and he was ranked the 33rd-best dunker of all time. His performances included Vince Carter-style elbow-in-the-rim dunks and 360-degree jams that left audiences in awe.
Pugh's high school success led to a scholarship at the University of Massachusetts (UMass), where he continued to impress with his dunking prowess. However, after the head coach was fired, he transferred to Sacramento State, where he became a standout player. In 2005, he finished second in the NCAA Slam Dunk Contest on ESPN, further solidifying his reputation as one of the top dunkers in the country.
20. Shaquille Johnson
Shaquille Johnson, known for his explosive leaping ability and acrobatic dunks, was a standout high school basketball player from Alpharetta, Georgia. Standing 6'5" and weighing 210 pounds, Johnson's athleticism and flair on the court earned him the nickname "747". Johnson gained national attention for his dunking abilities, winning the Under Armour Dunk Contest at Venice Beach in 2011. His performance included a windmill dunk, a high-flying dunk over 6'9" Tony Parker, and a circus dunk going through his legs and jamming left-handed
21. Kwe Parker
Kwe Parker, a 6'2" guard from Fayetteville, North Carolina, gained national attention during his high school years for his exceptional leaping ability and creative dunks. Despite being just over 6 feet tall, Parker's athleticism allowed him to execute dunks that rivaled those of taller players. His performances were often highlighted on platforms like Ballislife and ESPN, showcasing his unique style and flair on the court. During his time at Wesleyan Christian Academy, Parker became known for his pre-game dunks and in-game highlights that captivated audiences. One of his most notable moments was a reverse-360 cradle dunk at the 2014 Diamond Day event, which was widely shared and praised across social media platforms. This dunk, among others, solidified his reputation as one of the most exciting dunkers in high school basketball.
22. Stevie Thompson
Stephen "Stevie" Thompson, a 6'2" guard from Los Angeles, was a standout player for Syracuse University during the late 1980s. Known for his exceptional leaping ability and aggressive style of play, Thompson became one of the most electrifying dunkers in college basketball history. Thompson played for the Syracuse Orangemen from 1986 to 1990, contributing significantly to the team's success. Despite his shorter stature compared to many of his peers, Thompson's vertical leap allowed him to perform dunks that were both powerful and acrobatic. His partnership with point guard Sherman Douglas became iconic, with numerous alley-oop connections that thrilled fans and showcased Thompson's aerial prowess.
23. Myree Bowden "The Remix"
Bowden played for the University of the Pacific Tigers, where he showcased his athleticism and flair. His most notable collegiate achievement was being a runner-up in the 2004 NCAA Dunk Contest, where he captivated audiences with his windmill dunks and unique style. During the contest, he famously donned a cowboy hat and danced under the hoop, adding an entertaining element to his performance
Myree Bowden, known by his nickname "Reemix," is a dynamic athlete who gained national attention for his exceptional dunking abilities. Standing 6'1", Bowden's leaping prowess and creativity on the court earned him a reputation as one of the premier dunkers of his era
24. Herman “Helicopter” Knowings
"When I was in 9th grade, I saw the Helicopter, with my own two eyes, pick a quarter off the top of the backboard to win a bet, and I was in complete shock."
-Bernard King
"One in particular, Herman "Helicopter" Knowings, was renowned for a shot he called "the double-scoop sundae with a cherry on top" - where, with basketball in hand and street shoes on his feet, he would become airborne between midcourt and the top of the key, make two complete revolutions representing both scoops of the sundae, then stuff the ball backward through the hoop (aka "cherry on top").
-Alan Zweibel
"Boy named Helicopter had an incredible wingspan. His jump was absolutely awesome. He had wide shoulders--he was built like Orlando, 6-7 or 6-8. He would get up in the air and spread those wings, he'd be swoopin'."
-Wilt Chamberlain
"I'm not going to mention names, because they are my friends, but there was one play where the pros brought the ball down, and Copter blocked a shot. Whap! The guy passed the ball to a teammate, who tried to shoot. Whap! Blocked again. The next guy passed the ball to a third pro. Whap! Blocked again. You get the picture? Copter blocked three shots in a row by professionals."
25. Ryan "Speical FX" Williams
Ryan “Special FX” Williams is a 6'2" guard known for his explosive leaping ability and creative dunking style. Born and raised in Queens, New York, Williams began his basketball journey in the famed Rucker Park League at age 16. He later played at Monroe College in the Bronx, where he earned his AA in Business Management and helped lead his team to a fifth-place finish in the NJCAA Division I national tournament.
After college, Williams gained national recognition as a member of the AND1 Mixtape Tour in 2006, where he earned the nickname "Special FX" for his innovative and high-flying dunks. He was featured in ESPN's "Street Ball: The AND1 Mix Tape Tour" series and became a prominent figure in the streetball community.
Beyond his EBC appearances, Williams' career includes notable achievements such as winning the 2008 Dunkman Contest and being a prominent member of Team Flight Brothers, a collective of elite dunkers. He also toured with the AND1 Mixtape Tour and Ball Up, further cementing his status in the streetball world.
Explore The 75 Greatest NBA Dunkers of All Time
Honorable Mention Dunkers:
Chris "Top Flight" Wright, Stanley Robinson, Conrad "McNasty" McRae, Willie Glass, Santee Gale "757", Dwayne Polee