Top 10 Dunks In Nba History

The NBA has seen its fair share of jaw-dropping dunks throughout its history. From high-flying acrobatics to powerful slams, these dunks have captivated fans and left an everlasting mark on the game. In this article, we will take a closer look at the top 10 dunks in NBA history that have left fans in awe.

1. Michael Jordan’s “Air Walk” Dunk:
Michael Jordan’s gravity-defying dunks are legendary, and one of his most iconic moments came during a game against the LA Lakers in 1991. Jordan took off from the free-throw line, floated through the air, and slammed it home with unmatched grace and power.

2. Vince Carter’s “Honey Dip” Dunk:
Vince Carter’s leaping ability was on full display during the 2000 NBA Slam Dunk Contest. One particular dunk, known as the “Honey Dip,” saw Carter soar over 7-foot-2 defender Frederic Weis and throw it down with authority, creating an unforgettable moment in dunk contest history.

3. Dominique Wilkins’ Windmill Dunk:
Known as “The Human Highlight Reel,” Dominique Wilkins showcased his incredible athleticism and power with his windmill dunk during the 1985 NBA Slam Dunk Contest. With a full wind-up, Wilkins threw down a vicious dunk that remains etched in the memories of fans to this day.

4. Blake Griffin’s Dunk over Kendrick Perkins:
In 2012, Blake Griffin soared over Oklahoma City Thunder’s Kendrick Perkins, catching an alley-oop pass and throwing it down with such force that it sent shockwaves throughout the crowd. This dunk solidified Griffin’s reputation as one of the game’s most electrifying players.

5. Shaquille O’Neal’s “Dunkman” Slam:
During the 1993 NBA Playoffs, Shaquille O’Neal lifted his size 22 sneakers off the ground and threw down a massive dunk over Alonzo Mourning, leaving the entire arena in awe. This slam exemplified Shaq’s dominance and strength in the paint.

6. LeBron James’ “The King’s Throne” Dunk:
In 2013, LeBron James unleashed one of his most memorable dunks on Jason Terry during a fast break. LeBron elevated, cocked the ball behind his head, and slammed it home with such authority that he was left sitting on the court, perched on his figurative throne.

7. Julius Erving’s “Free Throw Line” Dunk:
Before Michael Jordan’s iconic free-throw line dunk, Julius Erving wowed fans with his version during the 1976 ABA Slam Dunk Contest. Erving took off from the free-throw line, glided through the air, and finished with a powerful one-handed slam, setting the tone for future high-flying dunks to come.

8. Kobe Bryant’s “Posterizing” Dunk over Dwight Howard:
In 2004, Kobe Bryant showcased his sheer determination and competitiveness by throwing down a monstrous dunk over a leaping Dwight Howard. This dunk showcased Bryant’s ability to rise above opponents, defy gravity, and create unforgettable moments on the court.

9. Darryl Dawkins’ “Chocolate Thunder” Dunk:
Known for his thunderous dunks, Darryl Dawkins left fans in awe with his powerful and entertaining slams. One of his most notable dunks was during the 1979 NBA Playoffs when he shattered the backboard with a monstrous jam, earning him the nickname “Chocolate Thunder” and changing the game forever.

10. Jason Richardson’s “Behind-the-Back” Dunk:
Jason Richardson showcased his incredible creativity during the 2003 NBA Slam Dunk Contest when he executed a mesmerizing behind-the-back dunk. Richardson not only elevated over his opponents but added a flair and finesse to his dunk that earned him a perfect score from the judges.

FAQs:

1. Who has the most dunks in NBA history?
Dwight Howard holds the record for the most dunks in NBA history.

2. When did the NBA implement the slam dunk contest?
The NBA introduced the slam dunk contest during the 1984-1985 season.

3. How many times did Michael Jordan win the NBA dunk contest?
Michael Jordan won the NBA dunk contest twice, in 1987 and 1988.

4. Who is the tallest player to win the slam dunk contest?
Dwight Howard, standing at 6 feet 10 inches, is the tallest player to win the slam dunk contest.

5. Has a woman ever competed in the NBA dunk contest?
No, a woman has not yet competed in the NBA dunk contest, but female players have participated in separate dunk contests.

6. How are dunks scored in the NBA dunk contest?
In the NBA dunk contest, a panel of judges scores dunks on a scale of 6 to 10, with deductions for missed attempts or if the dunk was not completed within a given time frame.