Entertainment
Shaquille O’Neal’s 'Dunkman' competition concludes inaugural season as organizers plan international expansion
The live televised dunk contest has accumulated over 854 million views and is aiming for future partnerships, including a potential collaboration with the NBA.
The short version
- "Dunkman," a live televised dunk competition created by Shaquille O'Neal and his business partners, aired its first-season final on August 25 on TNT and HBO Max.
- The tournament features 24 of the world's best dunkers competing for a $500,000 grand prize, the largest prize money in competitive dunking history.
- Organizers are already planning for a second season, aiming to recruit international athletes and introduce junior and women's divisions.
Key facts
- "Dunkman" is a live televised dunk league and tournament presented by Authentic Studios and TNT Sports, offering a $500,000 first-place prize and $125,000 for second place.[Variety]
- The competition drew more than 854 million views across social media platforms during its group stages leading up to its August 25 finale.[Variety]
- O'Neal has been partnered with Authentic Studios since December 2015, producing various projects including the "Dunkman" league.[Variety]
- Authentic Studios president Colin Smeeton stated that the league is looking into a second season that could feature scouting in countries like Poland and China, undercard events, a 15-and-under junior contest, and a women’s division.[Variety]
What remains uncertain
- It remains to be seen whether the league can achieve its ultimate stated goal of partnering with the NBA to run the official NBA Slam Dunk Contest.[Variety]