The event has given rise to some of the NBA’s smallest players, including in 1986, when 5-7 Spud Webb defeated his Hawks teammate and defending champion Dominique Wilkins. Webb remains the shortest player to win the win the event, but 5-9 Nate Robinson has the most contest titles (three) from his dominant run last decade.
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Here’s a look at the scoring format and participants for 2019 as well as the full list of previous winners throughout history.
NBA Slam Dunk Contest format, scoring
Despite many changes over the years, the contest has reverted back to a simple format.
Five judges will grade the dunks on a scale of 6-10, with 50 being the maximum score per attempt. The two players with the highest combined score on their two first-round dunks will move to the finals, with the winner being determined the same way.
Who is in the 2019 NBA Slam Dunk Contest?
The 2019 contest in Charlotte, N.C., will feature two rookies (Miles Bridges of the hometown Hornets and Thunder guard Hamidou Diallo) in addition to a pair of second-year players (Hawks forward John Collins and newly-acquired Dennis Smith of the Knicks). Smith also participated in the event last year.
Reigning champion Donovan Mitchell will not be a part of the field this year.
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NBA Slam Dunk Contest past winners
*No Slam Dunk Contest took place in 1998 and 1999.
