Shaquille O'Neal's DUNKMAN contest has returned.
The NBA icon's contest that gives undiscovered athletes a chance to win $1 million and potentially go pro is back for its second year. Shaq is on a talent search for his next DUNKMAN athlete following a successful debut year of the world’s first international professional dunking league.
“The first season of DUNKMAN showed the world what I’ve known all along. These guys are incredible athletes, and dunking is a real sport,” said O’Neal in a press release. “We had some real stars emerge this season, and I’ve been saying since day one that there are guys sitting at home watching us on TNT thinking, ‘I can do better than that.’ Well, now’s your chance. I want to see what you’ve got.”
Last year, Cam Hazzard, was crowned the inaugural DUNKMAN champion and walked away with its $500,000 grand prize.
What can participants expect?
The DUNKMAN team will evaluate up to 50 applicants, and a few will be able to try out in front of the four-time NBA champion during for a chance to advance to the Qualifier Final.
At the conclusion of all the Regional Qualifiers and the Qualifier Final, one athlete will receive $10,000 and a professional DUNKMAN contract. The athlete will also try their luck at the $1 million grand prize at the 2027 World Championship.
DUNKMAN X Lilly
In partnership with Lilly, DUNKMAN will also host a girls’ basketball clinic in support of The Court Is Hers™, to advocate for girl's participation in local basketball programs.
Article Continues Below“Health is the quiet force behind every extraordinary moment, which is why Lilly puts health above all,” said Lina Polimeni, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, Consumer at Lilly. “Behind every dunk are thousands of hours no one saw: the training, the conditioning, the recovery. Everyone who commits to their health at that level deserves a shot at their full potential. We’re proud to partner with DUNKMAN to give everyday athletes that shot in Lilly’s hometown, and to make sure the next generation gets one too through The Court Is Hers, our citywide initiative expanding access to youth basketball for girls.”
Where can you try out for DUNKMAN?
Tryouts will take place in Indianapolis at Indiana University in partnership with Lilly. The first Regional Qualifier will be on Nov. 14. You can apply now through Nov. 2 here. Fans are also welcome to enjoy the exhibition and can purchase tickets here.