Top 75 Slam Dunkers of All Time
In celebration of the NBA's 75th anniversary, we present the 75 Greatest Dunkers of All Time. This list honors the iconic players, both past and present, who have elevated the art of dunking. Our rankings consider a mix of in-game slams and Dunk Contest performances, with extra points awarded for originality, particularly if a player pioneered a signature move. Join us as we unveil the NBA's Top 75 Dunkers of All Time.
1) Vince "Air Canada" Carter
Vince Carter redefined dunking with a combination of power, finesse, and creativity that few have ever matched. His jaw-dropping leap over 7'2" Frédéric Weis in the 2000 Olympics remains one of the most legendary in-game dunks in basketball history. Carter's performance at the 2000 Slam Dunk Contest is still regarded as the greatest of all time, featuring iconic slams like the 360 windmill and the elbow dunk.
Throughout his career, Carter posterized some of the game's biggest names, including Alonzo Mourning and Shaquille O’Neal. His first three seasons in Toronto marked the pinnacle of dunking excellence, with nightly highlights dominating SportsCenter. From the NBA to Rucker Park, Carter’s high-flying artistry cemented him as one of the most electrifying dunkers the game has ever seen.
2) Michael "Air" Jordan
Michael Jordan, known by an endless list of nicknames—His Airness, Air Jordan, Black Jesus—was the ultimate combination of skill, grace, and raw athleticism. Even at UNC, he was a force above the rim, introducing the world to his signature Rock-the-Cradle dunk.
Jordan's in-game slams became the stuff of legend, delivering iconic poster dunks over defenders like Cliff Levingston, Tree Rollins, and Patrick Ewing with ruthless precision. His performances in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest were ahead of their time, showcasing an unprecedented mix of power, finesse, and creativity. Whether it was his free-throw line dunk or his nightly in-game aerial assaults, Jordan redefined what was possible in the air.
3) Dominique "Human Highlight Reel" Wilkins
Dominique Wilkins, affectionately dubbed "The Human Highlight Film," was celebrated for his powerful and graceful dunking style. A master of the windmill dunk, Wilkins's in-game slams—including his double-pump reverses, tomahawks, and windmills—were a spectacle to behold. Notably, he remains the only player to win the Slam Dunk Contest five years apart, underscoring his enduring dominance in the art of dunking.
One of the most memorable moments of Wilkins's career occurred during a game against the Milwaukee Bucks. In front of Bob Lanier's family, Wilkins executed a powerful dunk over Lanier, leaving a lasting impression. Lanier's daughter reportedly remarked on the televised play, leading to a strained relationship between the two players. Wilkins later recounted that Lanier didn't speak to him for nearly a decade following the incident. Wilkins's performances continue to inspire fans and players alike, solidifying his legacy as one of basketball's premier dunk artists.
4) Julius "Dr. J" Erving
Julius Erving, affectionately known as "Dr. J," transformed basketball with his exceptional aerial artistry and innovative dunks. His career, primarily in the ABA, featured numerous spectacular dunks that were often not captured on film. Erving's most iconic moment came during the inaugural Slam Dunk Contest in 1976, where he secured victory with a memorable dunk from the free-throw line.
Beyond the dunk contest, Erving's career was filled with remarkable performances against basketball legends. In the 1977 NBA Finals, he delivered a memorable dunk over Bill Walton, exemplifying his agility and skill. Another iconic moment came during the 1980 NBA Finals, where Erving executed a reverse layup over Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, showcasing his creativity and finesse around the rim. Erving's influence extended beyond individual plays; he played a pivotal role in popularizing the slam dunk as a legitimate and exciting aspect of basketball, inspiring future generations of players to embrace and innovate upon his high-flying style.
5) Jason Richardson
Jason Richardson is often regarded as one of the most underrated dunkers in NBA history. His explosive leaping ability and creativity led him to win consecutive NBA Slam Dunk Contests in 2002 and 2003. Richardson's signature move—a reverse, between-the-legs dunk off an alley-oop—left an indelible mark on the contest's legacy. His in-game dunks were equally impressive, often catching defenders off guard with his sudden bursts to the rim. Despite his retirement, Richardson's dunking legacy continues to inspire and influence aspiring dunkers.
6) David "Skywalker" Thompson
David "Skywalker" Thompson, standing 6'4", was renowned for his exceptional vertical leap and acrobatic prowess, which left an indelible mark on basketball history. At North Carolina State University, he and teammate Monte Towe innovated the alley-oop—a play where a player passes the ball near the basket to a teammate who jumps, catches it in mid-air, and dunks or lays it in before touching the ground. Thompson's 44-inch vertical leap made this play particularly effective. In the inaugural ABA Slam Dunk Contest in 1976, he introduced the 360-degree dunk, spinning in mid-air before slamming the ball through the hoop—a move that captivated audiences and set a new standard for creativity in dunking. Additionally, due to his relatively smaller hand size, Thompson developed a unique "cup" grip, allowing him to control the ball mid-air and execute powerful dunks. These innovations not only showcased his individual talent but also significantly influenced the evolution of above-the-rim play in basketball.
7) Zack Lavine
Zach LaVine's dunking prowess is a blend of fluidity, elevation, and creativity. His back-to-back NBA Slam Dunk Contest victories in 2015 and 2016 showcased his exceptional talent. In the 2016 contest, LaVine and Aaron Gordon delivered a memorable showdown, with LaVine executing a series of flawless between-the-legs and free-throw line dunks that left audiences in awe. His ability to seemingly float in the air and perform complex maneuvers has solidified his status as one of the premier dunkers of his generation.
8) Ja Morant
Ja Morant's burgeoning career has been highlighted by his fearless approach to dunking. Known for his explosive first step and ability to elevate rapidly, Morant has attempted dunks that few others would consider, often challenging much taller defenders. His audacious attempts, even those that don't result in a completed dunk, have become viral sensations, earning him a reputation as one of the most exciting young players in the league.
9) Aaron Gordon
Aaron Gordon's dunking artistry has left an indelible mark on the basketball world. His legend began at a young age, notably when, at just 15, he delivered NBA Dunk Contest-quality performances during the SF City Pro-Am. Fans were astounded by his advanced dunking skills, which hinted at his future in professional basketball. Gordon's high school career further showcased his athletic prowess, leading to his participation in the 2013 McDonald's All-American Game, where he earned the MVP title. His transition to the NBA only amplified his reputation as a premier dunker. His duels with Zach LaVine, particularly in the 2016 Slam Dunk Contest, are considered among the best in the event's history. Gordon's innovative dunks, such as his "under-the-legs" slam over the Orlando Magic mascot, showcased a blend of creativity and athleticism that pushed the boundaries of the competition. Despite not always securing the win, Gordon's performances have elevated the standard for what is expected in dunk contests. Beyond the contests, Gordon's in-game dunks continue to electrify fans, solidifying his status as one of the most dynamic and influential dunkers of his generation.
10) Zion Williamson
Zion Williamson's ascent in the basketball world has been marked by his extraordinary dunking ability. From his viral high school mixtapes to his dominant performances at Duke University, Williamson's combination of size, strength, and explosiveness has drawn comparisons to some of the game's greatest dunkers. In the NBA, his powerful slams and ability to seemingly defy gravity have made him a must-watch player, with many anticipating his participation in future dunk contests.
11) Mac McClung
His dunking prowess has been a sensation since his high school days at Gate City. Despite standing 6 feet 2 inches, McClung's jaw-dropping vertical leap and inventive dunks have earned him a massive following. His performances in various dunk contests, including his recent victory in the 2024 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, where he achieved perfect scores on all his dunks, have been lauded for their creativity and difficulty. McClung's ability to bring streetball flair to the professional stage has reignited interest in the art of dunking.
12) Blake Griffin
Blake Griffin's entry into the NBA brought a resurgence of powerful, highlight-reel dunks. Known for his explosive athleticism, Griffin frequently posterized defenders, making him a regular on sports highlight reels. His most iconic moment came during the 2011 Slam Dunk Contest when he leaped over a car to complete a dunk, solidifying his status as one of the era's premier dunkers. Griffin's combination of strength, agility, and showmanship made him a fan favorite and a staple in discussions about top NBA dunkers.
13) Nate Robinson
At 5 feet 9 inches, further cemented the legacy of shorter players in dunk contests. With an impressive vertical leap and flair for the dramatic, Robinson became the first player to win the NBA Slam Dunk Contest three times (2006, 2009, and 2010). His performances were characterized by a combination of power and creativity, often leaving audiences in awe. Beyond the contests, Robinson's in-game dunks during his 11-season NBA career showcased his fearless approach, consistently challenging taller defenders at the rim. Robinson boasts a great range of in game dunks dating back to his time in high school.
14) Spud Webb
Spud Webb's victory in the 1986 NBA Slam Dunk Contest remains one of the most inspiring moments in basketball history. Standing at just 5 feet 6 inches, Webb defied expectations by executing a series of gravity-defying dunks that captivated fans and judges alike. His performance not only showcased his incredible leaping ability but also challenged the notion that height was a prerequisite for dunking excellence. Webb's triumph served as a beacon of hope for aspiring players of all statures, proving that determination and skill could overcome physical limitations.
15) Kobe Bryant
Kobe Bryant's dunking legacy is equally remarkable, marked by both his 1997 Slam Dunk Contest victory and numerous in-game highlights. At just 18, Bryant became the youngest player to win the contest, dazzling spectators with a series of electrifying dunks that showcased his flair and athleticism. Throughout his career, Bryant continued to deliver jaw-dropping moments, such as his 360-degree spinning dunk against the Denver Nuggets in 2003, where he maneuvered around a defender and finished with a spectacular reverse slam. These moments, among many others, highlight Bryant's enduring impact on the game and his place among the sport's greatest dunkers.
16) Charles Barkley
Despite standing at 6'6", Charles Barkley utilized his robust frame to execute powerful dunks. His aggressive approach to the rim often saw him overpowering taller defenders, underscoring his tenacity and strength.
17) Lebron "King" James
LeBron James has delivered numerous memorable dunks throughout his career, showcasing his exceptional athleticism and power. One of his most iconic moments came during a game against the Boston Celtics in 2008, where he soared past Kevin Garnett for a thunderous one-handed slam, cementing his reputation as a formidable force on the court. Another standout dunk occurred in 2013 against the Sacramento Kings, when James executed a reverse alley-oop off a pass from Norris Cole, leaving fans and commentators in awe. His high school prowess was equally impressive; in the 2003 McDonald's All-American Slam Dunk Contest, James captivated audiences with his creativity and leaping ability, securing the victory and setting the stage for his illustrious NBA career.
18) Wilt "The Stilt" Chamberlain
Wilt Chamberlain revolutionized the game with his dominance and athleticism. Notably, his ability to dunk from the free-throw line without a running start led to the NCAA instituting a rule in 1956 requiring free-throw shooters to keep both feet behind the line during an attempt. Chamberlain's penchant for dunking free throws showcased his extraordinary physical prowess and prompted significant rule changes to maintain competitive balance.
19) Phi Slamma Jamma (Clyde Drexler & Hakeem Olajuwon)
The University of Houston's "Phi Slama Jama" was a moniker for their men's basketball teams from 1982 to 1984, renowned for their above-the-rim playing style and slam dunks. Coached by Guy Lewis, the team featured future Hall of Famers Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler, among others.
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Hakeem Olajuwon: Standing at 7 feet, Olajuwon combined agility with power. His dunks were characterized by swift footwork and explosive finishes, often leaving defenders flat-footed.
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Clyde Drexler: Known as "The Glide," Drexler's dunking style was graceful yet forceful. His ability to soar effortlessly made his slams both aesthetically pleasing and intimidating.
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Benny Anders: Anders brought flair to the court with his unpredictable and acrobatic dunking style, often energizing the crowd and his teammates.
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Larry Micheaux: Nicknamed "Mr. Mean," Micheaux's dunks were powerful and straightforward, reflecting his tough playing style.
This collective emphasis on dunking not only captivated fans but also cemented Phi Slama Jama's legacy in college basketball history.
20) Desmond Mason
Desmond Mason clinched the 2001 Slam Dunk Contest title by defeating Jason Richardson. Known for his chiseled physique and two-foot jumping style, Mason had a unique ability to contort his body mid-air, making him one of the best alley-oop finishers in basketball history.
21) James "Flight" White - Move Up
James "Flight" White is renowned for his extraordinary leaping ability and creative dunks. He gained national attention during the 2001 McDonald's High School Slam Dunk Contest, where he executed a two-handed dunk from the free-throw line. White's signature move—a between-the-legs dunk from the free-throw line—showcases his exceptional athleticism. Throughout his professional career, he continued to impress in various international dunk contests, solidifying his status as one of the most innovative dunkers in basketball history.
22) Anthony Edwards
Anthony Edwards, the 6'4" shooting guard for the Minnesota Timberwolves, has been an elite dunker throughout his life. His powerful and acrobatic dunks have drawn comparisons to Michael Jordan. Notably, Edwards has been recognized for his high-flying dunks since his high school days.
23) Shadeon Sharpe
The Canadian teenager rapidly ascended the high school basketball rankings to become the nation's top player before enrolling at Kentucky mid-season. Although he never played a game for the Wildcats, leaving many to speculate about his athleticism, Sharpe dispelled any doubts by showcasing his incredible dunking ability in subsequent years, solidifying his reputation as an elite dunker. His ranking on this list should continue to rise as years pass.
24) J.R. Rider
Isaiah "JR" Rider made history by being the first player to execute a through-the-legs dunk in the NBA. He won the 1994 Slam Dunk Contest with this move, dubbing it the "East Bay Funk Dunk." Standing at 6'4", Rider's powerful dunks were a staple during his time under coach Jerry Tarkanian at UNLV, before he brought his high-flying act to the NBA. Notably, Rider predicted his Dunk Contest victory on draft night, and his East Bay Funk Dunk remains a significant moment in Bay Area basketball lore.
25) Gerald Green
Gerald Green is often considered one of the most underrated dunkers of all time. As the top player in the 2005 high school class, he won the McDonald's Slam Dunk Contest with a memorable performance. After making the leap directly from high school to the NBA, Green continued to showcase his vertical leap and creative dunks, including his famous "birthday candle" dunk, where he blew out a candle on a cupcake placed on the rim before finishing the dunk. Despite his impressive dunking repertoire, Green's aerial exploits are often overlooked in discussions about great dunkers.
26) Derrick Rose
Despite standing at 6'2", possessed extraordinary athleticism that allowed him to perform jaw-dropping dunks. His explosive first step and ability to contort his body in mid-air made him a constant threat to opposing defenses. Rose's slashing drives often culminated in spectacular dunks, underscoring his status as one of the most athletic point guards in NBA history.
27) Shawn "Reignman" Kemp
Nicknamed the "Reign Man," was celebrated for his ferocious and acrobatic dunks. His tenure with the Seattle SuperSonics featured numerous highlight-reel plays, including posterizing opponents with slams that showcased both power and finesse. Kemp's dynamic dunking ability made him one of the most exciting players to watch during the 1990s.
28) Amare Stoudemire
Amar'e Stoudemire was renowned for his explosive leaping ability and aggressive finishes at the rim. During his tenure with the Phoenix Suns, often playing alongside Steve Nash, Stoudemire became a master of the pick-and-roll, culminating in powerful dunks that left defenders helpless. His in-your-face slams were emblematic of his playing style and contributed to the Suns' high-octane offense.
29) Dwight Howard
Howard, an Atlanta native combined athleticism with strength, making him one of the premier dunkers of his era. His performances in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest, including the memorable "Superman" dunk, showcased his creativity and leaping ability. On the court, Howard's alley-oops and put-back dunks were staples of his offensive repertoire, electrifying fans and energizing his teams.
30) Shaquille O’Neal
Standing at 7'1" and weighing over 300 pounds, dominated the paint with his sheer size and strength. His thunderous dunks not only intimidated opponents but also led to structural reinforcements of NBA backboards and rims after he famously brought down entire basket structures during games. Shaq's powerful slams were a testament to his dominance and left an indelible mark on the game.
31) Darryl "Chocolate Thunder" Dawkins
Affectionately known as "Chocolate Thunder," revolutionized the art of dunking with his powerful and flamboyant style. Entering the NBA straight from high school in 1975, Dawkins became famous for shattering backboards—most notably in 1979, leading the NBA to adopt breakaway rims. He uniquely named his dunks, with monikers like "In-Your-Face Disgrace" and "Rim Wrecker," adding flair and personality to his on-court performances. Legend has it he broke more than 7 backboards in his career.
32) Derrick Jones Jr
Derrick Jones Jr. has been a high-flying dunker since his early days, showcasing his leaping ability in various dunk contests and in-game situations. Standing at 6'6", Jones Jr. has earned a reputation for his acrobatic finishes and gravity-defying slams, making him a fan favorite and a constant highlight reel contributor.
33) Connie "The Hawk" Hawkins
Known as “The Hawk,” Connie Hawkins was a legendary figure long before his time in the NBA or ABA. A schoolyard icon in Brooklyn, Hawkins earned his nickname through his remarkable ability to glide through the air with grace and power. Though his early years in the NBA were hindered by a ban, he went on to shine with the Harlem Globetrotters and in the ABA, where his aerial exploits captivated fans. Hawkins’ dunking ability, combined with his smooth style and basketball IQ, made him one of the most respected dunkers of his time.
34) Demar Derozan
The Compton native has been a standout dunker since his teenage years, gaining recognition while playing with the P. Miller All-Stars. Known for his mid-range and post-game abilities, DeRozan's NBA career has been filled with highlight-reel dunks that have posterized some of the league's best defenders. Despite his evolution as a scorer, his dunks—especially his athletic finishes—have remained a constant aspect of his game. His dunking pedigree, established in high school, carried over into the NBA where he continued to deliver electrifying performances.
35) Larry Nance
Larry Nance, the original two-ball dunker, made his mark on the NBA Slam Dunk Contest by showcasing his creativity and athleticism in unique ways. At 6'10", Nance’s combination of size and jumping ability allowed him to perform dunks that were ahead of his time. His victory in the first-ever Dunk Contest in 1984, where he bested legends like Dominique Wilkins, Julius Erving, and Darrell Griffith, solidified his place in dunking history. Nance’s hawk-like hang time and smooth, powerful dunks made him one of the best big man dunkers the league has ever seen.
36) Stromile "The Show" Swift
Stromile Swift was an elite dunking big man known for his incredible athleticism and leaping ability. Standing 6'9", he had the rare ability to finish with explosive power and finesse, making him one of the most exciting dunkers of his era. Whether it was finishing alley-oops, posterizing defenders, or showcasing his leaping skills in transition, Swift’s dunks often left fans in awe. His combination of height, strength, and explosive vertical leap made him a constant threat at the rim during his time in the NBA. His signature hand tribute after each dunk made it special.
37) Darrell "Dr. Dunkestein" Griffith
Nicknamed "Dr. Dunkenstein," Griffith was renowned for his explosive two-handed power dunks that electrified fans throughout his career. Standing 6'4", he led the University of Louisville to the 1980 NCAA title, earning the tournament's Most Outstanding Player honors. In the 1985 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, Griffith showcased his aerial prowess, though he was eliminated in the first round.
38) Dwayne "The Flash" Wade
Standing at 6'3", Wade's explosive drives to the basket and acrobatic finishes made him one of the most formidable dunkers of his era, consistently thrilling fans with his rim attacks.
39) Harold Miner "Baby Jordan"
Hailing from Inglewood, Miner was celebrated as one of Southern California's greatest dunkers, combining power and style in his performances. His left-handed approach added a unique flair to his dunks, leaving a lasting impact on the SoCal basketball scene.
40) Giannis Antetokounmpo
The "Greek Freak is celebrated for his explosive dunks, often driving through defenses with remarkable speed and power. His athleticism and versatility have solidified his status as a premier dunker in the NBA, earning him multiple accolades and championships.
41) Tracy McGrady
McGrady's dunk over 6'9" James Felton at the ABCD camp catapulted him to national prominence, leading to his recognition as the nation's top high school player. His professional career was marked by numerous powerful dunks that showcased his athleticism.
42) Gerald Wallace
As the top recruit of 1999, Wallace gained fame for his exceptional high school dunk mixtape. He continued his high-flying style with the Sacramento Kings, finishing as the runner-up in the 2003 Slam Dunk Contest.
43) Dj Stevens (University of Memphis)
The University of Memphis product made a name for himself as the best dunker in college basketball. He had a cup of coffee in the league before enjoying a ton of success overseas. The above the rim big men stands only 6'5 and was sensational overseas.
44) John Wall
Wall captivated audiences with his electrifying athleticism, first making a name for himself in high school at Word of God. He continued to shine at Kentucky before winning the 2013 Slam Dunk Contest with a range of jaw-dropping dunks.
45) Terrence Stansbury
Renowned for his "Statue of Liberty 360," Stansbury's signature dunk remains a highlight in basketball history. His performances are celebrated for their creativity and flair.
46) Andre Igoudala
Andre Iguodala's career featured numerous impressive in-game dunks and Slam Dunk Contest appearances, showcasing his versatility and athleticism. One of the most explosive athletes to come out of the state of Illinois.
47) Darnell "Dr. Dunk" Hillman
The Sacramento native Darnell Hillman, affectionately nicknamed "Dr. Dunk," was renowned for his exceptional leaping ability. His aerial prowess was so impressive that Julius Erving remarked, "Nobody could jump higher than him, including me." Hillman's contributions to the game left an indelible mark on basketball history.
48) Gus "Honey Comb" Johnson
Gus Johnson, standing 6'5" and weighing 230 pounds, was a formidable force in the early days of professional basketball. Known for his powerful dunks, he once shattered a backboard during a game, a testament to his strength and leaping ability. His aggressive style paved the way for future generations of dunkers. There is a famous story about Gus Johnson and a nail that reaches almost 13 feet high in a South Dakota bar. Legend has it he broke at least 3 backboards during his pro career.
49) Russel Westbrook
Westbrook's aggressive playing style extended to his dunking, where his intensity and athleticism were on full display. His ability to drive to the basket with force led to numerous highlight-reel dunks, making him one of the most dynamic point guards in NBA history.
50) Josh Smith
Celebrated as one of the finest left-handed dunkers in NBA history. He won the 2005 NBA Slam Dunk Contest in Denver, impressing judges and fans with his creativity and power. Before entering the NBA, Smith showcased his dunking prowess alongside Dwight Howard on the Adidas-sponsored Atlanta Celtics AAU team and later teamed with point guard Rajon Rondo at Oak Hill Academy, forming one of the best alley-oop combinations in prep history. During his NBA tenure with teams like the Atlanta Hawks and Houston Rockets, Smith delivered numerous in-your-face dunks, solidifying his reputation as a formidable finisher.
51) Elgin Baylor
Standing 6'5", was a trailblazer in high-flying basketball. His innovative aerial moves and scoring prowess set the stage for future generations of dunkers. Baylor's ability to "hang" in the air and execute a variety of shots inspired many and solidified his status as a basketball legend.
52) Larry Johnson
At 6'5", Larry Johnson defied conventional expectations for a power forward. His moniker, "Grandmama," captured his larger-than-life presence on the court. Whether playing for the Charlotte Hornets or UNLV Runnin' Rebels, Johnson's combination of strength and athleticism led to numerous powerful dunks that left fans in awe.
53) Shawn "The Matrix" Marion
Shawn Marion, affectionately known as "The Matrix," was celebrated for his remarkable leaping ability and quickness, often catching defenders off guard with his explosive dunks. His versatility allowed him to excel in various positions, making significant contributions to teams like the Phoenix Suns and Dallas Mavericks. Known as the King of the second jump.
54) Darvin Ham
Darvin Ham's career was marked by his thunderous dunks and remarkable leaping skills. In college, he gained national attention by shattering a backboard during a game at Texas Tech. His powerful slams continued in the NBA, where he participated in multiple Slam Dunk Contests, showcasing his flair and athleticism. His 96 NCAA Dunk contest championship was more than impressive.
55) Eddie Jones
The smooth 6-6 swingman was known for his defensive prowess and athletic offensive play. Throughout his career, Jones executed numerous impressive dunks, often driving the lane and finishing strong over defenders, showcasing his agility and timing.
56) Kenny "Sky" Walker
The former New York Knick gained widespread recognition after winning the 1989 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, where he showcased his signature 360-degree dunks, leaving a lasting impression on fans and cementing his place in dunking history.
57) Baron Davis
The Los Angeles native was renowned for his strength, agility, and explosive dunking ability. One of his most memorable moments came during the 2007 NBA Playoffs when he delivered a powerful dunk over Utah Jazz forward Andrei Kirilenko, solidifying his status as a formidable presence in the paint. The 6-3 point guard was one of the most underrated Dunkers in the league with the Charlotte Hornets during his early seasons.
58) Steve "The Franchise" Francis
At 6'3", Steve Francis was a point guard celebrated for his explosive leaping ability and electrifying dunks. Before players like Derrick Rose and Ja Morant, Francis was thrilling fans as one of the best dunking point guards in NBA history, elevating over taller defenders with flair.
59) Penny Hardaway
Penny was a dynamic guard known for his versatility and impressive in-game dunks. Throughout his career, he delivered powerful slams over prominent centers such as Patrick Ewing, Dino Radja, and Rik Smits, showcasing his athleticism and fearlessness on the court.
60) Tom Chambers
Tom Chambers was renowned for his athleticism and scoring prowess during his 16-year NBA career with teams like the San Diego Clippers, Seattle SuperSonics, and Phoenix Suns. One of his most iconic moments was a powerful dunk over 6'2" Mark Jackson of the New York Knicks, exemplifying his leaping ability and strength.
61) Kevin Garnett
Hailing from Mauldin, South Carolina, Kevin Garnett entered the NBA straight out of high school, bringing a raw and unbridled energy to the court. His dunks were emblematic of his intensity, often punctuated by primal screams that showcased his passion. Garnett's ability to combine finesse with ferocity made his slams both graceful and intimidating, leaving an indelible mark on opponents and fans alike.
62) Scottie Pippen
Known for his versatility and defensive prowess, Pippen's dunking style was characterized by his long strides and explosive takeoffs. One of his most iconic moments came during the 1994 playoffs when he delivered a thunderous dunk over Patrick Ewing, a play that epitomized his fearless approach and athleticism.
63) Latrell Sprewell
Sprewell made a name for himself with his relentless drive and competitive spirit. In the open court, Sprewell was a force to be reckoned with, using his speed and agility to execute powerful dunks that energized his team and the crowd. His aggressive style often left defenders scrambling, making him one of the most exciting players to watch during his prime.
64) Chris Webber
The Detroit native, began dunking at the age of 13, showcasing his early athleticism. Throughout his career, he was known for routinely posterizing opposing big men, using his long arms and explosive power to make a statement at the rim. One notable highlight was during his rookie season with the Golden State Warriors, where he executed a memorable behind-the-back move followed by a dunk over Charles Barkley.
65) Grant Hill
Hill's smooth and effortless style made his dunks a thing of beauty, captivating audiences and solidifying his place among the game's elite. His early years at Duke were filled with over the rim dunks particularly one-handed alley-oops.
66) Rex Chapman
Rex Chapman, one of the best Caucasian dunkers on the list. At Apollo High in Kentucky he earned the nickname "King Rex". His toss around his back in the 91 dunk contest was a classic. Rex had sneaky bounce that caught plenty of people off guard in the league. His dunking style was both inventive and audacious, often catching defenders off guard. Chapman's ability to elevate and finish with flair made him a fan favorite, and his performances in dunk contests further showcased his creativity and athleticism.
67) Jerry Stackhouse
Jerry Stackhouse had a smooth way of gliding to the basket, complemented by a penchant for sneaky under-the-rim reverse dunks that often left defenders on a poster. His aggressive approach and aerial prowess made him a constant threat, and his ability to adapt mid-air showcased his exceptional body control and creativity.
68) Jr Smith
Standing at 6'5", J.R. Smith's dunking ability was characterized by his fearless approach and high-flying antics. Known for his explosive vertical leap, Smith often electrified crowds with his acrobatic slams, making him one of the most exciting players to watch during his tenure in the league.
69) Shannon Brown
The Michigan State product stood at just 6'2", but he could sky. Brown's leaping ability was nothing short of extraordinary, allowing him to perform dunks typically reserved for taller players. His in-game slams, often executed with ease, left spectators and opponents alike in awe of his vertical prowess.
70) Obi Toppin
Obi Toppin has managed an Eastbay dunk in both college and the NBA, showcasing his flair and confidence. His ability to execute such a complex move in-game situations speaks volumes about his athleticism and showmanship, making him a rising star in the realm of elite dunkers.
71) Richard Jefferson
The sole Arizona native on our list, the 6'6" Richard Jefferson, began his career with the New Jersey Nets, where he frequently connected on alley-oops from point guard Jason Kidd. This dynamic partnership was instrumental in the Nets' success during the early 2000s, with Jefferson's athleticism and finishing ability providing a significant offensive spark.
72) Malik Monk
Known for his electrifying dunks since his high school days in Arkansas, Malik Monk has continued to impress at every level. His ability to soar above defenders and deliver powerful slams has made him a fan favorite and a highlight reel regular.
73) Rudy Gay
Hailing from Baltimore, Rudy Gay has built a reputation for his versatility and athleticism. His smooth playing style and ability to finish above the rim have earned him respect as a formidable dunker in the league.
74) Terrance Ross
Terrence Ross is an explosive leaper who gained widespread recognition for his high-flying dunks. His performances in dunk contests and regular-season games have solidified his status as a premier in-game dunker.
75) Kenyon Martin
The explosive power forward, made his mark at the University of Cincinnati before being selected first overall in the NBA draft. An intimidating power dunker, Martin often yelled after his dunks, showcasing his intensity and passion for the game. His aggressive style and emotional celebrations left a lasting impression on fans and opponents alike.
Honorable Mention Greatest NBA Dunkers of All Time
Derrick Coleman, Tyrus Thomas, Rasheed Wallace, Stephon Marbury, Corey Maggette, Jeremey Evans, Hamidou Diallo, DeAndre Jordan, Dee Brown, Brent Barry, Fred Jones, Donovan Mitchell, Wes Johnson, Ricky Davis, Jalen Green, Kevin Durant, David Lee, Keon Clark, Stacey Augmon, Kenyon Martin Jr, Billy Cunningham, JaVale McGee, Michael Finley, Darius Miles, Antonio McDyess, Victor Oladipo, Ray Allen, Anthony Davis, John Starks, Kevin Johnson, Jerome Kersey, Brandon Roy, Dennis Smith Jr, Allen Iverson, Larry Kennon, Travis Outlaw, Jonathan Bender, Paul McPherson
The list of 75 best dunks of all time, was not the easiest to compile. If you think we missed a Dunker, drop us a comment and let us know who we missed.