Shaquille O'Neal launches Dunkman, first professional dunking league

Shaquille O'Neal Dunkman league professional dunking TNT $500,000 prize

NBA Hall of Famer Shaquille O'Neal announced the creation of Dunkman, the inaugural professional league dedicated solely to competitive dunking. The league, founded by O'Neal who will serve as commissioner, is backed by Warner Bros. Discovery, Authentic Brands Group, pharmaceutical company Lilly and Credit One Bank. The 24‑player inaugural season begins on Tuesday, July 21 at 8 p.m. ET, streaming on TNT and HBO Max, with weekly qualifiers leading to a World Championship on Aug. 25 that offers a $500,000 grand prize.

Among the competitors are three‑time NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion Mac McClung, China’s top dunker Dengxing Chen, and professional dunkers Tyler Currie and Isaiah Rivera. Broadcast duties feature former NBA star Vince Carter, Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green and creator CashNasty, with Adam Lefkoe as host. In addition to TNT, Dunkman content will be distributed via Bleacher Report, House of Highlights, YouTube and the league’s social channels. The launch reflects a broader trend of media companies investing in proprietary sports properties as rights costs for established leagues rise.

Sources

Shaquille O'Neal Starts 'Dunkman' League [hot1009.com]

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Shaquille O'Neal Starts 'Dunkman' League [92q.com]

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Shaquille O'Neal Starts 'Dunkman' League [thebeatdfw.com]

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Shaq Announces Premiere Date Of 'Dunkman' Professional Dunking League [cassiuslife.com]

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Shaquille O'Neal Starts 'Dunkman' League [wtlcfm.com]

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Shaquille O'Neal Starts 'Dunkman' League [hotspotatl.com]

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Shaquille O'Neal Starts 'Dunkman' League [hiphopnc.com]

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